For
NROTC – Navy Option, as noted in great posts above, you’ll need to complete 2 semesters of Calc and of Physics and there are deadlines. The ability to not fail these courses are differentiators – some people cannot, and do not move forward with the Navy option path because they can’t get through it. There are no such requirements for the Marine option path in the navy.
Are you better off being a marine? Simple question – what do you want? Do you want to be a marine, are you exceptionally physically fit? Do you want to lead marines in combat, or fly them in and out of the theater of combat, or likely be in the theater of combat leading a key initiative (comm et al.)? Research the mission of all branches of the armed services and decide which may offer you the best fit. Why Navy? Have you looked into all options including Army/ Air Force? No math requirements in Army.
From:
https://nrotc.vpul.upenn.edu/prospective/
- Calculus – one year by end of sophomore year (not required for Nurse or Marine Corps option students)
- Physics – one year of calculus-based physics by end of junior year (not required for Nurse or Marine Corps option students)
Not being at NSI is no big deal – it means you won’t have the foundation others have to start but no it’s not insurmountable – you’ll catch up in your first semester/ year. It also means you weren’t tested in a way that weeds out some participants.
Pursue or Drop? My Dad was a golden gloves boxer at an ivy league university many moons ago, and in boxing they have a towel – your corner can throw it in the ring to end a fight. Look, if this is really too uphill and if you absolutely cannot win against an opponent, zero chance, or have decided you can’t/won’t, then don’t let your fighter enter the ring. Throw in the towel. But if I were your parent or brother, I would tell you not to quit – yet. I think most of the time, it’s your attitude, resolve, grit, and preparation that will get you through challenges like this. Which is great training for life. Most of the time, you won’t regret trying. And you won’t regret using all resources/ help to get through this.
Good that you’re aware this may not be your strongest area. So, what can you do to overcome that? Here are a few suggestions.
- Get a foundation in math: Can you audit pre-calc at school this fall, take it next spring?
- Line up tutors. Use your university lab – be there to learn about this math and get more comfortable. Until you get each concept, keep asking for help. Your new hobby should be getting a foundation in math/ physics.
- Phone a friend – research rate my professor and take the one who helps non-math people get this material. Take the course with NROTC buddies and form study groups/ get through this.
- Isolate taking these courses – take it over the summer? You can only take it at any school that also has a NROTC detachment or cross-town affiliate so you may be able to take it at home over the summer or via remote instruction.
This is achievable, unless you quit before it starts, and unless you don't line yourself up to get through this.
A 4:37 mile? downhill/ on a bike? haha just kidding, that's outstanding. If you're in that elite of endurance/ shape, maybe you should take a look at the Marine mission and see if it lines up with your interests.
Good luck.
