What questions should a prospective ROTC cadet ask during their first meeting with ROTC exploring the possibility of a scholarship?

SGT Richard H. — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 13:52:42 -0400

My daughter is currently toward the end of her sophomore year at the University of Texas. She is meeting Monday 4/8 with an ROTC advisor to explore the possibility of joining ROTC on a scholarship program. Any advice on questions that a prospective cadet should ask during their first meeting?

Response by 1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2019 1:57 PM

1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 13:57:31 -0400

Which scholarship? SMP?

Response by 1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2019 2:00 PM

1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 14:00:09 -0400

I can also put her in touch with folks that have done UT ROTC

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2019 2:17 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 14:17:46 -0400

My only advice to her is to transfer to the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M!! Gig 'Em!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2019 2:21 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 14:21:35 -0400

Second year Cadet here. Make sure she fully understands the commitment expected from her within the program as well as after graduation. Second, know how the nature of the scholarship works as there are many different kinds.

Another thing worth asking is how her entrance into the program will differ from others her age since she is coming in as a junior. It’s not a huge deal that she missed her first two years, but it may change her situation in regards to what military science classes and training she is required to complete. Having an enlisted father will definitely help her get caught up on basic army knowledge, which believe me many cadets are heavily lacking.

Every ROTC program is different so as for specific questions regarding U of T I can’t help you there.

Lastly, don’t worry about having it all figured out right away. From my experience ROTC is something you get more familiar with as you go along. It’s a very different environment compared to the enlisted world which definitely took some getting used to for me. As long as she knows what she’s getting into she’ll be fine in the long run.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Apr 4 at 2019 3:21 PM

SGT Richard H. — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 15:21:45 -0400

Whoever re-worded my original question; Thanks. I like your wording better.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Apr 4 at 2019 5:36 PM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 17:36:17 -0400

Treat it like a job interview. Do research on the Company you want to join (Army). Figure out what position you want (Branch and Component). Ask about duties, pay and benefits, expectations. Be prepared to explain how you fit into the corporate (Army) structure, and what you, personally, can provide to the company. Based on your research, clarify any misconceptions or things you are unsure of. Make sure there are no "hidden agendas." And (probably most importantly) BE PREPARED TO WALK AWAY IF IT IS NOT A GOOD FIT. Be calm, composed, and confident.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2019 8:14 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 20:14:11 -0400

The best advice is to go into the meeting confident and sell yourself. They dont need to give her a scholarship. She has to prove she is the right material to be an officer. Physically fit, smart, confident, willing to work hard.

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made Apr 4 at 2019 11:52 PM

MAJ Byron Oyler — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 23:52:41 -0400

What is her major? She should consider whether she wants active or reserves after graduation and what does she need to do while in the program to achieve that.