AROTC Board 2

maroonandgold said:
Can my parents stop me in any way from doing ROTC? Just broke the news and they werent as thrilled as some of you are... Im 18 if that helps.
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I don’t know but I believe that with a 3 year scholarship there is no commitment until you start your sophomore year. So they will probably be a little more excited when the realize you can “try it out” for a year first.
 
Jarhead713 said:
Maybe I'll get lucky and another round of winners will come out tomorrow... but probably not

Just gonna go back to waiting... until March 23
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I've been following this thread because my DS applied for ROTC and I'm clueless about this whole process. He still is at B/UC, so probably no scholarship this round.
The reason I signed up, though, is to encourage you @Jarhead713 to not give up your dream to be an officer in the US military! Based on the small amount of your character I have seen on this forum, you have incredible caliber of integrity. You are needed in the military and will be a huge benefit where ever you serve! Never Quit.
 
maroonandgold said:
Can my parents stop me in any way from doing ROTC? Just broke the news and they werent as thrilled as some of you are... Im 18 if that helps.
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You’re 18. I don’t think you need their signature on anything. There’s info on the AROTC portal in Additional Information. Start clicking on the ones about winners/what’s next etc.
 
Renegade13 said:
I do not think the person who told you that you would be looked at intentionally lied to you. My guess is he was answered you what he believed from his particular position. Since he was not on the board and most probably not the one who set the cutoff that was given to the board he gave you what he thought was correct information.
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kinnem said:
No, I wouldn't say that. And further you don't know for certain you were not looked at. Keeping the portal up to date in these matters is not always the first priority, I was simply offering a possible explanation if it wasn't. Certainly your recruiter has no idea of how many applications are in the stack before yours gets there. Who really knows why it wasn't look at, if it was, in fact, not looked at. In any case it makes no difference at this point. It's a grin and bear it situation and you need to wait it out until you hear. BTW, even if it was looked at you may not be awarded a scholarship by this board but can still receive one later. You've got more important things to think about right now, especially since you cannot change the way things are. Go study for that test, or go have some fun. Better yet, work out so you'll be ready to report when a scholarship does come.
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Renegade13 said:
I do not think the person who told you that you would be looked at intentionally lied to you. My guess is he was answered you what he believed from his particular position. Since he was not on the board and most probably not the one who set the cutoff that was given to the board he gave you what he thought was correct information.
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I'm just extremely frustrated with the unprofessional conduct from cadet command and AROTC counterparts throughout my experience applying. First it was technical issues with my essays not showing up in the portal, then it was my PMS uploading my interview very late, supposedly because I wasn't even showing up as an applicant on his end (was told I got 200/200 pts though), and nobody replies to emails or phone calls. This number is not an exaggeration: I called 14 individuals' phone numbers that Fort Knox provided to try and get information regarding what in the world was going on with my application 2-ish weeks ago when AROTC had decided to extend the deadlines, and guess how many answered? 1, and the person was actually a JROTC Recruiter or something. I had called and left messages twice in the 9-5 pm ET zone, and after 5 days, someone at cadet command calls me back, the same day I get an email back finally stating that I would be definitely looked at this round. Oh great!-some relief after that stress. Then I keep reading from others on their status in the portal on this forum and emailed confirmation to the same guy (these cadet command individuals are assigned to applicant by last name) on Sunday night, with another updated email Tuesday questioning my status, and I still haven't heard back yet, not to mention this guy's phone number has an infinite ring that eventually automatically ends the call after 4 minutes. Cadet command's main phone number is never answered either. Keep in mind I've always called during ET zone standard business hours (9-5), and have yet to hear a call back. I've tried to be patient and not seem nagging or annoying, but this is just ridiculous. I swear I've had to dive so far in the Fort Knox/AROTC phone book I'm calling random privates' cell phones (just a joke). If it comes down to that I wasn't considered this round, I don't know what to say-my application to my number 1 school would be greatly boosted for admittance with a guaranteed tuition coverage of some sort, and I don't see why I would have to be the one to suffer the consequences of inept communication by cadet command and its AROTC counterparts. Sorry for the rant, hopefully this will somehow end in my favor? Thanks for the replies and cheers all!
 
My kid was a winner today. 3 year. Choice of 2 state flagships east of the Rockies.

Waiting on the AFROTC now. Hard to say which is plan A or B. A1 and A2 is a better description.

Was kind of hoping for a 4y that he could dangle in front of his reach(es) (still awaiting decision). Oh well. He put the locks and locals higher on the list. Not sure that was the wise move, or if it matters. Perfectly happy with the 2, a little surprised it was only 2.

JB..my kid had some minor snafu and using the email contact seemed to sort it out quickly. Best of luck and I appreciate your frustration.
 
Jarhead713 said:
Maybe I'll get lucky and another round of winners will come out tomorrow... but probably not

Just gonna go back to waiting... until March 23
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It’s ok, just keep going. I’m in the same situation as you.
Im in Varsity Track and Field, Unit Commander of my JROTC unit, President of a School Club, over 120 hours of community service, Commander of Drill Team, received 4 national recognition awards within JROTC, one was from Headquarters themselves, 570 on English SAT, 570 Math SAT, nearly perfect essay scores for SAT, 24 ACT, 11/12 on the writing ACT thus I believe my Essays for AROTC were very well written
Very Good PMS interview
3.3 GPA U/W, 3.5 Weighted
I was contacted by a Unit where the PMS told me they’re interested and believe I have good stats to earn me a scholarship
I really hope I get some good news soon, I’m sure you’ll get something soon. You seem very well rounded and seem to be an outstanding candidate
 
snicklebugs5 said:
The reason I signed up, though, is to encourage you @Jarhead713 to not give up your dream to be an officer in the US military! Based on the small amount of your character I have seen on this forum, you have incredible caliber of integrity. You are needed in the military and will be a huge benefit where ever you serve! Never Quit.
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I couldn't tell you what this means to me, thank you.
 
THmom said:
Our DSs are in the same boat regarding waivers. How does DoDMERB get triggered at this point and then the ensuing waiver requested? How did that work for NROTC? And, I thought USNA only requested waivers if they wanted a kid?! I hope your son is good to go!
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@THmom If your son is already completed his initial DODMERB exams and already been disqualified (due to starting earlier with the service academies), then the medical waiver for ROTC will automatically be started and reviewed. For my son, it took a little over 2 months between NROTC award and medical waiver denied but he started out right away with his DQ in place and all the AMI's turned in (due to request from academies). That info is shared also with ROTC's.

I have read a few times that USNA only requested waivers "when they are in line for an appointment." I have read this on SAF and also from his admissions officer. However, I have also found examples on this forum where people received USNA medical waivers and then did not receive (or at least failed to report) appointments. I feel like the language used is too strong.

I hope he is good to go too since sitting right now he has no path to commissioning via an academy or ROTC.
 
williamsdr3 said:
@THmom If your son is already completed his initial DODMERB exams and already been disqualified (due to starting earlier with the service academies), then the medical waiver for ROTC will automatically be started and reviewed. For my son, it took a little over 2 months between NROTC award and medical waiver denied but he started out right away with his DQ in place and all the AMI's turned in (due to request from academies). That info is shared also with ROTC's.

I have read a few times that USNA only requested waivers "when they are in line for an appointment." I have read this on SAF and also from his admissions officer. However, I have also found examples on this forum where people received USNA medical waivers and then did not receive (or at least failed to report) appointments. I feel like the language used is too strong.

I hope he is good to go too since sitting right now he has no path to commissioning via an academy or ROTC.
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Thanks for the intel! Looks like we’re both in for a ride. I’ll hope for the end of March to know more. Best of luck to your DS!
 
For reference, here are my son's stats. First board Tier 3 (non-STEM) 4 year winner for NROTC and second board 4 year winner for AROTC. International Relations expected major at Texas A&M.

GPA - I forget but all A's with one B in HS, class rank 14 of 455 (top 3%) at a good but not superb HS, 1460 SAT, National Merit semifinalist, AP Scholar, Boys State, National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) Scholar in Arabic in Morocco one summer, All-State choir, state level awards in classical guitar, Varsity Wrestling captain 2x, Wrestling Leadership Award, JV baseball 2x, decent fitness test for ROTC, good but not stellar interview (compared to acing NROTC interview), Student Body Treasurer, Student Council Rep, President - French Club, tutor - HS Writing Center and Math Center, section leader choir/guitar 4x, NHS, limited volunteering, two jobs during school year, two summer internships at the City, Gold Medal - National French Exam, AP French, AP Calculus, AP Physics, AP Biology, AP Govt, AP Econ, AP US History, AP World History, AP English.

To summarize, I would say top tier academics, good leadership, below average athletics.
 
JBfortunecookie1 said:
I'm just extremely frustrated with the unprofessional conduct from cadet command and AROTC counterparts throughout my experience applying. First it was technical issues with my essays not showing up in the portal, then it was my PMS uploading my interview very late, supposedly because I wasn't even showing up as an applicant on his end (was told I got 200/200 pts though), and nobody replies to emails or phone calls. This number is not an exaggeration: I called 14 individuals' phone numbers that Fort Knox provided to try and get information regarding what in the world was going on with my application 2-ish weeks ago when AROTC had decided to extend the deadlines, and guess how many answered? 1, and the person was actually a JROTC Recruiter or something. I had called and left messages twice in the 9-5 pm ET zone, and after 5 days, someone at cadet command calls me back, the same day I get an email back finally stating that I would be definitely looked at this round. Oh great!-some relief after that stress. Then I keep reading from others on their status in the portal on this forum and emailed confirmation to the same guy (these cadet command individuals are assigned to applicant by last name) on Sunday night, with another updated email Tuesday questioning my status, and I still haven't heard back yet, not to mention this guy's phone number has an infinite ring that eventually automatically ends the call after 4 minutes. Cadet command's main phone number is never answered either. Keep in mind I've always called during ET zone standard business hours (9-5), and have yet to hear a call back. I've tried to be patient and not seem nagging or annoying, but this is just ridiculous. I swear I've had to dive so far in the Fort Knox/AROTC phone book I'm calling random privates' cell phones (just a joke). If it comes down to that I wasn't considered this round, I don't know what to say-my application to my number 1 school would be greatly boosted for admittance with a guaranteed tuition coverage of some sort, and I don't see why I would have to be the one to suffer the consequences of inept communication by cadet command and its AROTC counterparts. Sorry for the rant, hopefully this will somehow end in my favor? Thanks for the replies and cheers all!
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Well then, I would suggest you not accept a scholarship, if one is offered, because if you think this is the last screw up you will see then you are sadly mistaken. Every large organization has screw ups. The trick is to find ways around them or persevere through them. You've done that, but if your not happy with what you see then you shouldn't sign up.

BTW, I know of screw ups where folks were denied a timely promotion because of glitches in the system entirely out of their control. So they persevered, got the promotion later, and did the work necessary to make it retroactive to when it should have happened. Life ain't easy.

I do sincerely hope all your dreams come true, regardless of what path you take. You're obviously tough because you persevered.
 
kinnem said:
Well then, I would suggest you not accept a scholarship, if one is offered, because if you think this is the last screw up you will see then you are sadly mistaken. Every large organization has screw ups. The trick is to find ways around them or persevere through them. You've done that, but if your not happy with what you see then you shouldn't sign up.

BTW, I know of screw ups where folks were denied a timely promotion because of glitches in the system entirely out of their control. So they persevered, got the promotion later, and did the work necessary to make it retroactive to when it should have happened. Life ain't easy.

I do sincerely hope all your dreams come true, regardless of what path you take. You're obviously tough because you persevered.
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Thank you for your response! While I am disappointed at the moment, I will continue to attempt communication. Despite screwups, I hope a scholarship may arise from this strenuous process 😅 . Appreciate the response again, and good luck to the rest of you there!
 
@Jarhead713 @ElectricWizard2024
I’m right there with u both in about everything too. I will just snap shot it here. Not everything. First, I’m seeking a biomedical engineering degree.

Boys State Delegate, Four years Robotics Lead Programmer/CAD Design and Mathematician - lead the team to two state competitions and we took Rookie Team of the Year (1st year competing), Spanish Club, Track and Field, Soccer, two years 4H rifle and archery team, placed 1st in FBLA state competitions for Computer Network Design, 3rd for Impromtu Speaking, and 3rd for Webpage Development. Competed at the National level two years in a row. Won many awards for AP Scholar, Rotary Club, NHS, placed twice in the state district American Legion Audio/Essay contests,... Volunteered more than 250 hours with the local VFW Auxiliary, Children’s Alliance Orphanage (Big Brother), local Elementary School math tutor, etc. etc.... worked a part time job as the fishmonger shop manager for 1.5 years at the local Trout Farm (really enjoyed seeing the bald eagles 🦅 swooping down to grab a bite) have a 29 ACT with a 4.0 unweighted/4.329 weighted thus far. Class rank of 2/205 and am looking at clinching the Valedictorian slot. Will have 31 dually enrolled college credits when I graduate and earned the state academic scholars award.

There’s more but I’m not going to bog folks down with the rambling. But for not being groomed since I was 12 years old and having advisors to guide me, I’m feeling good about my accomplishments.
 
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There
EEBTTF said:
@Jarhead713 - love your enthusiasm and commitment. Keep the faith - its a marathon not a sprint!
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There’s solid truth in that statement. HS accomplishments are truly the sprint. Without having parents knowledgeable of this process, nor guidance at my school, including no JROTC program, etc. - the marathon part begins around 6th grade. So in most respects I’m proud of where I am because I got to this point (despite not getting any ROTC National Awards) without advisors, parental pressures, etc. I’m me and know what my end goal is.
 
MaximusPrime82101 said:
@Jarhead713 @ElectricWizard2024
I’m right there with u both in about everything too. I will just snap shot it here. Not everything. First, I’m seeking a biomedical engineering degree.

Boys State Delegate, Four years Robotics Lead Programmer/CAD Design and Mathematician - lead the team to two state competitions and we took Rookie Team of the Year (1st year competing), Spanish Club, Track and Field, Soccer, two years 4H rifle and archery team, placed 1st in FBLA state competitions for Computer Network Design, 3rd for Impromtu Speaking, and 3rd for Webpage Development. Competed at the National level two years in a row. Won many awards for AP Scholar, Rotary Club, NHS, placed twice in the state district American Legion Audio/Essay contests,... Volunteered more than 250 hours with the local VFW Auxiliary, Children’s Alliance Orphanage (Big Brother), local Elementary School math tutor, etc. etc.... worked a part time job as the fishmonger shop manager for 1.5 years at the local Trout Farm (really enjoyed seeing the bald eagles 🦅 swooping down to grab a bite) have a 29 ACT with a 4.0 unweighted/4.329 weighted thus far. Class rank of 2/205 and am looking at clinching the Valedictorian slot. Will have 31 dually enrolled college credits when I graduate and earned the state academic scholars award.

There’s more but I’m not going to bog folks down with the rambling. But for not being groomed since I was 12 years old and having advisors to guide me, I’m feeling good about my accomplishments.
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Technically, I can get into a state public university and start as a sophomore + 1 extra credit hour just because... making strategic adjustments to my “school of intent” lineup now. Thank heavens a few schools have Early Action II... downside > without the university scholarship opportunities. Boo hiss
 
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