Joining rotc freshman year vs junior year?

[thebeatles]

i'm a rising high school senior right now, and wondering if i should join rotc my freshman year of college or junior year of college? like does joining your freshman year get u benefits or does it guarantee a commission more than junior year? i'm asking bc im thinking of doing my first 1-2 years of college at a community college. thanks

 

[clarksonarmy]

It is always preferable that you take all four years of ROTC. It is a program that is designed for four years of instruction. It allows for what we call lateral entry, but typically the cadets I see that enter the program through LTC are less prepared. If you just can't afford to attend a four year college you may be able to find a CC that is affiliated with a four year ROTC program. Another option would be to look into enlisting into the Guard or Reserves. Even if you join ROTC as a junior chances are very good that you will be a second lieutenant when you graduate, you just may not get the branch you desire.

Good luck.