What options or advice would you give someone planning to attend college and taking part in their ROTC program?

Unless something has changed, Cadet time is still dead time. Usually you don't contract until your Junior year if you aren't on scholarship, but your time as SMP Cadet doesn't count toward retirement or your military obligation. For prior service, I would almost recommend doing straight reserve/national guard time until the junior year, then contract so you can do the ROTC Advanced before your senior year. That loses the least amount of creditable service

SIMULTANEOUS MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM (SMP)

With SMP, you participate in both the Guard and your college's ROTC program at the same time. During this two-year course, you'll be paired with and mentored by a unit officer, and get paid to drill once a month with your Guard unit. In addition, check out these benefits:
Qualify for up to 100 percent tuition with the Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty (GRFD) scholarship.
Earn a cash bonus, depending on your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
Receive a monthly allowance, based on your grade level.
Get more money every month through the Montgomery GI Bill and Guard Kicker.
From NationalGuard.com
Best of all, upon graduation you'll receive your commission as a second lieutenant, and serve in either the National Guard or the Active Army. SMP is your key to success now and after graduation. Your recruiter has all the details.

Thank you sir. I will be attending the university of central Missouri in the fall. The ROTC program at this school is supposed to be one of the best in Missouri.

Congratulations and good luck, SGT (Join to see). Study hard and make good grades!