Learn what you're talking about please. The odds of your life ending by joining the U.S. Navy are minuscule. There are special warfare groups in the Navy such as the EOD, SWCC, and the SEALs that endanger your life, but those are above and beyond the average call of duty when you're enlisting in the navy. You have to voluntarily join those groups, they do not force you into them.
I can't think of a better way to better your life in a situation like his. It instills discipline you won't find elsewhere, as well as confidence and maturity among other things. You pick your rate (Job) that can be taken out of the Navy and into the civilian world. I think all teenagers should consider the military, at least for a second, i mean REALLY consider it.
Ahem... on topic here. I respect you to the fullest for your decision to enlist in the Navy. In my opinion, i would NOT go to college first. Here's why:
The only thing as far as i know going to college prior to enlistment will do for you, is let you enlist as an officer. Not only can you enlist as an enlisted-man, then apply for an officer position on active duty, but they even pay for the college to do so. On top of that, you're working in the Navy during this process and making your own money! You also obtain rank during your service, which means you get paid even more! This is all assuming you'll re-enlist and do more than 4-6 years. Even if you don't plan to re-enlist, i still wouldn't go to college beforehand.
Try your best to explain to your parents that there is next to no danger enlisting in the Navy. A basic rate in the navy will not put your life in danger. Mention that there are special warfare operations groups that DO put their lives at risks, and how you will not be apart of those groups (might help to put them at ease, idk.)
Edit: And even if none of what i said was true, and you did somehow miraculously die in the Navy at a basic job, you died a hero. /thread.