bronze267

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Oct 11, 2018
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16
Hello all,

I have received a 4-year Army ROTC scholarship to Princeton, MIT, and Cornell. I have also received a NROTC ISR scholarship (to any NROTC school I think), and I'm waiting on my AFROTC HSSP scholarship decisions to come out on 12/23. I have to accept/decline my Army ROTC scholarship by 11/24, and I'm kind of confused about how the process works, so if anybody could answer my questions below, that would be awesome!
  • Since I already signed the NROTC ISR contract when I interviewed with my CO, does that mean I have to go into NROTC?
  • I'm probably going to go the Navy route, but should I accept the Army ROTC scholarship just in case? Is that binding too, or can I back out later and state that I have accepted an NROTC scholarship instead?
  • If I am going to accept the Army ROTC scholarship, should I choose MIT or Princeton? I am going to study mechanical engineering, but ultimately I want to go to a school that can give me connections (I'm thinking of starting my own company or going into business later in my career). I have visited both and value Princeton's campus more, but MIT's quirkiness more (I also think MIT's dorms are definitely not as good as Princeton). MIT's engineering program is more hands-on, which is what I like, but again, I'd rather choose the school that will give me the most networking opportunities.
Thank you!
 
My understanding is that you can accept each one - all of them. None are binding until certain dates, etc - there are others that are experts here. Also, discern your approach a bit more. Generally, again food for thought, you want to go to a college that has a program that aligns to you and your interests, strengths, etc. Don't view it as 'College/Campus First' approach. Look to the program/degree that best aligns to you, your strengths, etc. Hopefully that makes sense. If you are more inclined to Polytechnic - hands on - you will enjoy the experience. If you are young (18 - 24), be mindful that your interest in running your own company or being part owner in an organization is great but 8 years from now you may think differently. I've had, and have been a part of, two successful start-ups after the military. Never enjoyed life for 8 years. Worked 19 hours a day year round every weekend. Oh yeah, had a wife and two kids too. Never saw my daughter for her first three years of life. Doesn't mean you will be that way but in Silicon Valley, it is kind of that way. My point is, where you are today in age and life experiences may change significantly if you are in the military over the next 4+ years - let alone how you grow, change directions, find joy and interest in your life, etc. That said, congratulations on this achievement! Good for you. That is a great accomplishment. I wish you nothing but the best and hope you find a degree, college and career that you excel in. Let us know/keep us posted on your decisions, etc. as you start your journey.
 
@bronze267, you’re smart to be thinking about building a strong network. That’s typically how careers advance. But two things to consider:

One, in the grand set of considerations when choosing a college, that shouldn’t be in the top five. Other factors — such as availability of desired program, your cultural fit, affordability — are much more important.

Two, no one can quantify the difference between Princeton connections and MIT connections — except to say that both schools’ networks are outstanding. That said, the strength of your network will not be determined by the school, but by the time and care and thoughtfulness that you put into nurturing your relationships.
 
I would accept all, and here is why, you have it get accepted to the schools also, and until you know all of your options, keep your options open. Everything will get a lot clearer in the spring. For Army, you will accept to a certain school, let’s say you do not get accepted to that school, then in the spring you can transfer it.

I would also think of which branch you want to serve in and why, you are elating towards Navy, so you’re u do have an idea. However, things can change or you might just learn more between now and decision day about where is best for you. You earned the scholarships, so accept them and keep those options open.
 
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