Maybe Non Ducor Duco.
However, one thing that is the same across every ROTC unit, you only have 1 chance at a 1st impression, and usually the PFT where you can shine immediately.
They expect to teach you how to salute, how to march. They also expect that you get; here are the min. stds. for the PFT, now meet or exceed them. It is pretty straight forward.
I am not implying you won't give 110%, I am saying that sometimes it is better not to have the knowledge of that safety net. I worry that some posters will not comprehend that as I said earlier this is your 1st opportunity to make a positive name for yourself within the unit, and the importance behind it.
For example: They will assign you a job within the det. and it will occur within weeks of arriving. Some dets there are not enough jobs for every C100.
You don't want to be behind the 8 ball as a C100, because next semester they will rotate assignments, and most likely at a large det you will get a job. BUT, meanwhile another cadet may also get their 2nd job. As a C200 when up for selection this will play into the equation. It will play into the equation for the AFSC board too.
There is only going to be 1 CWC, 1 CVWC, a few CFCs as POCs. It all comes down to day one as a C100.
In no means am I saying maxxing is the make or break, but I am def. saying just meeting the mins because they said this test is not official does not mean it will not impact you regarding 1st impressions.
For AROTC cadets, there is a thread of how scholarship cadets could not contract until they passed the PFT.
One thread I would review is:
http://www.serviceacademyforums.com/showthread.php?t=21612
For NROTC cadets, I don't recall that type of post, but posters might have added into that same thread. The thread is 6 pages long.
Non Ducor Duco I am betting Marist's post is why your det has that position.
Most of our new cadets fail the APFT on their first and second try (August / September). Most pass by their third or fourth try (beginning of October).
It appears after pulling up this thread it is a non-issue until October. However, I still stress 1st impressions is a issue.