ROTC - Creating a Balanced Person

Jun 1, 2000    Write an essay on this topic.




I graduated from the Navy ROTC program at Old Dominion University in 1989. I was commissioned in the USMC and currently hold the rank of Major. I have no regrets about going through ROTC, and think I received a better education than someone going through a Service Academy, not only because of the school, but because of the life experiences.

ROTC does not require an individual to commit 24/7 to the military while in college. What it does do is give individuals a chance to have their tuition and books paid for, not based on physical ability alone, but academic achievement. In return for the educational benefits, you serve our great nation for usually four years. The nice thing is there is no student loan debt to be repaid. I was fortunate that I had parents that planned to provide for my college, so the scholarship was a bonus in my situation. I did meet people who this allowed them to get their education that otherwise would not have had the opportunity.

On the people side, you meet people in college from all walks of life . There are different cultures, lifestyles, etc., that a cadet at the military academy will not see. This is important in the potential future officer's development of people skills, not only for the military, but for life in general. Remember, college is many people's first time away from home for an extended period of time.

ROTC will not necessarily instill discipline. You have to be self disciplined in order to succeed. Those seeking discipline would probably be better off going through enlisted boot camp prior to making this sort of commitment.

I have had the honor and privilege of meeting some of the finest Americans I will ever know due to the ROTC program. It is not for everybody, as the military lifestyle and culture is not for everyone as well. It is an excellent path for those desiring to further their education at the cost of serving their country.


Read all comments (2)|Write your own comment
Write an essay on this topic.

About the Author

MajorFury
Epinions.com ID: MajorFury
Location: Jacksonville, FL
Reviews written: 8
Trusted by: 1 member