Foolish to defer AFROTC scholarship for NROTC college option?

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Csmith2297

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Dec 23, 2015
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Hello Everybody,

For quite sometime it has been my dream to be a Naval Officer. For a while it was my dream to go to USNA, but I soon realized that I do not really care which commissioning route I take as the end result would be the same. Anyway, I recently received a 4 year type-7 AFROTC scholarship. Although AF has always been a close second, my biggest concern is what I should do if I do not receive a NROTC scholarship. Should I receive one, I would intermediately withdraw my AFROTC acceptance and take the Navy scholarship. However, if I do not receive one, it would make for a very difficult decision. As previously stated, it has been my dream for a long time now to become a Naval Officer. There is nothing I want more. My question is, would it be foolish to defer the AFROTC scholarship to join NROTC and pursue a possible 3 or 2 year scholarship? One part of me thinks it would, but at the same time it's almost impossible to put a price on a dream.

Many Thanks and Happy Holidays!
 
First of all congratulations on being awarded the 4 year AFROTC Type 7 scholarship. It is no small feat to achieve!

The question about giving up an AF 4 year scholarship in the hand to pursue the 2, or 3 year NROTC award in the bush is really up to you. My feeling is that if you would be satisfied becoming an Air Force Officer, without looking back with regret, then take go AFROTC as it is the more certain route to Plan B.

However if Plan B will only make you a regretful, uncommitted AF officer who pines away about the Navy, then I would pull out all stops and go for the dream. Is there a risk that you don't make it? Yup! But if your stats earned you the AF Type 7, you have the talent and skill necessary to get the 3 year with NROTC.

Only you hold the answer to your question. Dig deep in your heart and envision what kind of officer you seek to become. Whichever you choose, don't look back.
 
Keep in mind you don't have to make any decisions now. You won't have to decide whether to turn down an AF scholarship until after the last round for NROTC. You can accept the AF scholarship now and then turn it down if you get the Navy offer, or not enroll in AF ROTC if you decide being a Naval Officer is more important than getting some of your college paid for. Recommend you take your time, consider carefully, and make sure you have all your options on the table.
 
Clarkson army is spot on. You. Can always accept and then make a final decision when all offers come in. I have seen so many kids jump on the first thing that comes in the door. It's always nice to be wanted. Be patient, visit different schools and dets. Really think about your goals and what fits you best. NROTC or USNA (assuming you applied) could both come through. Hang in there and good luck!
 
Navy will be awarding more sideload scholarships and Advanced Standing contracts to those who have completed some time in NROTC and fewer 4 year scholarships to high school students in the near future. Your chances of getting picked up for an NROTC program, especially considering you were competitive enough to receive the AFROTC offer, should be very high should you join as a college programmer.
 
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