I should have posted this earlier this summer but forgot. For those of you about to report to your units for the first time here are some tips I have gleaned over the last 5 years.
1) Be ready to pass the APFT. This is the number one barrier that keeps cadets from contracting and activating your scholarship. About half of the 4 year scholarship earners in my DS unit failed the test the first time out.
2) Show up in regulation. This means haircut, proper PT gear/attire. No piercings. One prospective cadet showed up with long hair, less than politically correct verbiage on his shirt and failed the test. It was not the best way to make a first impression. He was voted off the island.
3) Make sure you have all of your information at hand. DS completed his SF 86 form prior to arrival . There will be lots of questions on this form your parents will have to help you with unless you can remember everywhere you have traveled and lived your entire 18-19 years in this earth.
4) Have some money in your account and available. It may be a month or two before your stipend is deposited.
5) Keep in contact with your financial office , make sure they know you are ROTC. Proactive communication will head off lots of issues.
Lastly, have fun but make good choices. You will be held to a higher standard for the next 4-5 years during college. Don’t jeopardize this incredible opportunity and risk a $100k-$200k scholarship to have a beer and get an MIP.
Good luck to you all!
1) Be ready to pass the APFT. This is the number one barrier that keeps cadets from contracting and activating your scholarship. About half of the 4 year scholarship earners in my DS unit failed the test the first time out.
2) Show up in regulation. This means haircut, proper PT gear/attire. No piercings. One prospective cadet showed up with long hair, less than politically correct verbiage on his shirt and failed the test. It was not the best way to make a first impression. He was voted off the island.
3) Make sure you have all of your information at hand. DS completed his SF 86 form prior to arrival . There will be lots of questions on this form your parents will have to help you with unless you can remember everywhere you have traveled and lived your entire 18-19 years in this earth.
4) Have some money in your account and available. It may be a month or two before your stipend is deposited.
5) Keep in contact with your financial office , make sure they know you are ROTC. Proactive communication will head off lots of issues.
Lastly, have fun but make good choices. You will be held to a higher standard for the next 4-5 years during college. Don’t jeopardize this incredible opportunity and risk a $100k-$200k scholarship to have a beer and get an MIP.
Good luck to you all!