My DD is applying for a 4yr scholarship and I have been attentively monitoring the 4 Jan scholarship thread, as there is a lot of insight available on SAF. I find it very disheartening to see people that are supposed to be on the same team disparage sister departmental representatives. While I do not claim to know everything about the ROTC process, I have 11 years (and counting) experience as a USAREC Recruiter. I am responsible for 55 Soldiers, not “salesmen.” Therefore, when I read this thread I had to register and weigh in.
First –United States Army Recruiting Command (USAREC) Recruiters, ROTC Recruiters (ROO), USMA Representatives, and Army National Guard Recruiters should work together, we often find ourselves “fighting” over the same territory. An Army Reserve Recruiter is responsible for filling Army Reserve units to include OCS, SMP, Direct Commission, and enlisted. A ROO is responsible for recruiting ROTC cadets to fill/expand their ROTC program and ultimately fill the ranks of Active and AR/NG Officers. Bottom line – each has a mission, goal, requirement (whatever you want to call it) and therefore each is recruiting from the standpoint of their assigned mission. USAREC Recruiters are tasked to provide ROTC referrals quarterly because of the importance to fill/expand the ROTC program.
Secondly – It is the individuals (along with influencers) to make the best decision for themselves. Moreover, the only way to make that decision is to obtain all of the available information. If you were going to purchase a new car, you would not take the word of the Chevrolet salesperson about a Ford.
Lastly – While I agree that if available, the 4-year national scholarship is the best thing going, I have a responsibility to my DD to explore back-up plans. These back-up plans include, campus based scholarships, SMP, Post 9-11 GI Bill through active duty, etc… After all, I looks like 4-year scholarship opportunities are shrinking.
Salon, meet with the Army Recruiter, gather all of the information possible and make the best decision for you. I wish you the best of luck!
The ASVAB will not affect your scholarship opportunities.
“Anyway, it all adds up to a max of about $11,000 per year” – Actually, it adds up to as high as $30,000 per year. Even more after you contract through ROTC.
“the ROTC officer was clearly upset that he was talking to a recruiter” – Again, because we are in the market.
“You should go to basic, it will make you a better officer.” – Regularly used statement, could be true depending on the person, but just an opinion.
Army Strong!
Respectfully,