Former AROTC Cadet Seeking Advice

[JPuck98]

Several months ago I posted on this forum inquiring for advice about what to do after sustaining a concussion on an FTX that eventually lead to me leaving my ROTC battalion in order to recover properly. Since that time I've now been medically cleared to start doing physical activity again and have been attending classes, etc. and am back to where I was before my head injury.

I suppose what I am wondering, and wondering if anyone could shed any insight on - is if cadets ever return to, or can return to the AROTC program after leaving it. I was uncontracted, non-scholarship. My desire has always been to commission, and since I had to leave the battalion I've made sure that if the opportunity ever presented itself to return that I'd be able to - in terms of physical requirements. I can pass my APFT, I dropped ten pounds, etc. However, I don't know that I should continue to chase this dream - of earning a commission through ROTC, or just try to pursue this career through other avenues.

Any insight that could be provided would be greatly appreciated.

 

[khergan]

I don't see why you wouldn't be able to return to ROTC as long as you left on good standing. Obviously I don't know the circumstances of your injury, but if was a legitimate injury sustained during training, I have no idea why anyone would hold it against you to recover for awhile.

Assuming that you are 1) fine physically and 2) didn't burn your bridges or antagonize anyone on the way out, I see no reason whatsoever why you couldn't continue to take ROTC classes and eventually contract. If I were you, I'd get in touch with the cadre and get counseled on what you should do to to catch up for what you've missed.

 

[kinnem]

It's certainly worth a chat with the cadre. I expect it might depend on how long you've been absent. If returning is not a possibility I'm sure they can fill you in on other paths to commissioning.