JROTC or not at all?

[karhuto132]

Hey I'm new and I was wondering about JROTC. I'm currently a junior and just learned about the service academys. I'm biting myself because I haven't participated in JROTC or NJROTC, and my school doesn't offer either. I can do JROTC next year as senior, but it's a 30 min drive without traffic. I'm more than willing to make the drive. I also have school sports to maintain. Is it worth to start as a senior or not at all because of the application deadline?

 

[BearDog567]

Currently in MCJROTC, so I can speak from a cadet standpoint but not from an admissions/ field rep perspective.

Honestly, if that would be your first and last year it's probably better to spend your time on something else. You won't be placed in a high position within the unit, and your commute would make it impossible to spend time on the teams and activities they offer as well as your other commitments. Additionally, it would be more difficult to explain why you only did it 1 year at another school, rather than just saying it wasn't an option where you go.

If someone who knows admissions thinks that it's worth it, go for it. But I doubt JROTC is a big enough boost to sacrifice other worthy activities.

 

[Academician]

I agree with @BearDog567. I have a number of students in JROTC, and it's a great addition to a resume, but not likely in your senior year. You might look at other organizations that provide leadership opportunities now and are active into the summer/fall, or 'lean' more into your current activities. Many of my students are not members of JROTC and are quite competitive as juniors and have appointments/ROTC scholarships as current seniors. Good luck!

 

[bookjustice]

You probably won’t be able to take any significant leadership positions since you don’t have experience/time with that program, and what you’d be learning is not important enough to justify that half hour drive (drill, air rifle, general citizen stuff). I don’t think it would be worth it for those reasons.

 

[flieger83]

I'm a Senior Aerospace Science Instructor (SASI) in AFJROTC. I would tell you that for only your senior year, other than learning a little about the military and getting to wear a uniform, you won't gain that much.

Instead, I'd find a way to do some community service. My cadets LOVE to do "Feed my Starving Children" every three weeks or so. Lots of students from our campus go to do service. There are MANY other opportunities out there. Take a leadership role in something like. Perhaps speak with your school administration and see if you can organize a blood drive (if that's not already done on your campus)....the possibilities are endless.

That will show leadership, service before self, and give you the opportunity to grow in maturity and leadership.

A Win-Win: you win and others (charities, service groups) win.

Steve
USAFA ALO
(Mentor & Evaluator)
(and SASI)

 

[KPEngnr90]

I was never in JROTC or Sea Cadets before getting an appointment, but I demonstrated leadership and initiative in other ways. I got involved in student government, tutored and mentored, lacrosse team captain and senior editor of our school paper. Try and get involved in clubs and other extra curricular activities. It shows you have the ability to manage your time productively which is primarily what you will be doing as a cadet or midshipman.