As high school juniors begin to think about what college to attend, some also think about travelling the unconventional route and joining an ROTC program. ROTC, or the Reserved Officers’ Training Corps, is a college-based officer training program to prepare students to serve in the U.S. armed forces.
ROTC is offered at over 1,000 colleges around the nation and is a beneficial program for students to join. Students will gain valuable military training and education for their chosen branch of service and also receive generous tuition benefits. Since ROTC offers scholarships as well to aid in tuition, it is an excellent option for those who will struggle to afford the rising costs to attend college.
“In exchange for paid college education and a guaranteed post-college career, the ROTC is a very good program for high school students to think about…if you cannot afford college, this is a good route to go,” said Gwen Canada, career development coordinator.
Following college, in exchange for the benefits gained from the ROTC program, officers have a four-year service obligation for their chosen branch.
Students in ROTC attend college just like other students but also receive basic military and officer training for their chosen branch of service. Unlike enlisting, when students enter the military following ROTC, they will already be ranked as an officer instead of a private.
“The ROTC is also a good option for students because they can earn a college degree and have a better position when they go into the military,” added Canada.
During the fourth week of every month, military recruiters come to Leesville for students to have the opportunity to discuss enlisting or ROTC options. Students who are interested can stop by the recruiters and receive more information.
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