ROTC stands for Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, a military training program offered by the Army, the Air Force, the Marines, the Coast Guard, and the Navy.  “It is very humbling and disciplined. It helps me prepare for anything I may face, whether it be academic or something pertaining to the military. Growing up in a military family definitely makes everything easier. ROTC is a part of my life. I love it almost as much as my sports. ROTC has definitely shaped me into who I am today,”  said Senior Keizhane Green.

“I would recommend ROTC as a good fit for students who are interested in engineering and math/ science sort of careers. Students should also start thinking about this in ninth grade so that they can get the credits they need and also be participating in various types of leadership activities,” said Career Center Coordinator Tim Mahaney. Another factor that would affect someone’s decision in doing ROTC may be whether you want to spend time away from family.

This program helps prepare students to learn leadership and other skills. This program is offered at 3,000 high schools and at more than 1,000 colleges. Along with leadership skills, ROTC offers other benefits such as paying for college tuition. It was naturally created as part of a National Defense Act of 1916, then was later expanded under the 1964 ROTC Vitalization Act. Each of these branches offers different benefits than each other. However, the most vital thing for most high school students is trying to stay out of debt that often comes with college tuition.

The Army branch offers the largest ROTC program with 20,000 cadets at 273 ROTC programs at major universities. The Air Force ROTC program is one of three branches which can offer other ways to earn the title of an officer. These programs involve joining Officers Training school or being accepted into the Air Force Academy straight out of high school.

Navy ROTC has a great opportunity for students who want to start the program in college, with Naval Reserve Officer training Corps scholarship. This program offers other benefits besides the chance for free college tuition, an amazing opportunity to be a leader through leadership training. The best part for these recruits is that they can still have a normal college life. The Marines ROTC program also offers marine recruits the chance to go through the Naval Academy. Another great thing about the Marine ROTC is the Frederick C. Branch scholarship, which is also offered through NROTC. The General Pedro Del Valle is another scholarship offered to students attending or planning to attend a Hispanic college. Officer Candidate course is specified for those wishing to become a future Marine Officer. Candidates follow this course while in Officer Candidate school, and this ten-week program will conclude whether the candidate is Officer material.