Graduation is coming up soon. Seniors are leaving many different programs and clubs. For example, seniors graduating from JROTC (Junior Reserves Officers’ Training Corps). Some may assume that this program is only for those who want to go to the military after high school, but that is not the case. JROTC teaches students fundamental life skills. In addition to this, it can be really fun!
To hear of some seniors’ experiences with JROTC, I started by talking to senior Mahnoor Babra. She has been part of this program for nearly four years and learned many things, such as confidence and how to find her own voice. The other cadets and instructors also helped her to come out of her shell, teaching her to give speeches and lessons.
Though, this is what she learned, she said she first joined because she comes from a military background saying, “My dad’s serving almost twenty years in the army.” Babra added that she thought it was “really cool to join a program where either they are from the military or interested in the military” Babra said her favorite part of JROTC has been the bigger events (i.e. 9/11 and Veteran’s Day) because she enjoyed seeing everyone come together and because they trained hard for these events. Her advice to new JROTC members is, “Honestly just do it,” adding that you do not need a military background or a want to join the military to join JROTC.
Another JROTC senior is Alyssa Boulware says, “You have to be really into it because if you do it just to get rid of a class period, there’s no point in being in the program. You should want to be better for yourself, rather than ‘I don’t care’ vibes.” Boulware has been part of this program for four years now. She gives this advice because during her years in JROTC, she learned how to be independent but also how to work in a team.
Boulware also learned “how [her] life choices can react to what [her] actions are in the program” and a lot about leadership. Going back to the start, Boulware first joined this program because when she was first introduced to it; she thought it was cool and something that would be for her. She was then encouraged by Senior, aka John Scott Morris, and Major Roundtree. The part she enjoyed most was the sports competitions and presentations for her class.
Senior Landon Lane has been in JROTC for four years and his favorite part has been helping teach others in the program, drill, rifles, and flags. This is his favorite part because “seeing
people go from not knowing anything to teaching other cadets is amazing.” Before Lane could teach others, though, he himself had to learn. Some things he learned while in JROTC are how to be a leader and to help whenever he sees it is needed. Adding, “This program has helped me a lot to become a problem solver.” Lane first joined the program because he thought it would be a nice opportunity and could give him or options for his future. He did consider going to the military but now plans on going to college to major in engineering.
These three seniors enjoyed their time in JROTC at this school. We wish you all the best of luck with whatever you choose to do after high school.
