Post High School Plan

Cadets,

My desire is for you all to go to college after you graduate from high school. Everything we do in our “J” ROTC is to help you transition to colleges and universities, especially those with an ROTC program.  I have spent many years on the enlisted side, and I love and appreciate every moment of that time. Yet, the rewards of being a college student are indescribable.  College is where I built lifelong friendships. It was in college that I learned how to manage my time, plan my life, and live independently. This is also where I looked into being a professional such as doctors, lawyers, pilots, and so on. Options are endless. 

One of the reasons why JROTC and ROTC exist in schools all around the country is that the military realized long ago that leadership comes from many places.  In the days of the past, officers come from the sons of kings and queens, but today’s officers come from every walk of life. I am a testament to that successful journey.  The military is looking for good leaders in their ranks, and they are willing to invest in you.  Plus, it is tough to be a US Air Force astronaut, Nuclear Submarine commander, or Marine Officer.  These difficulties are why the military, via the ROTC and the service academies, allows you to compete for scholarships to pay for your tuition, room & board, and most importantly, your monthly salary. 

My recommendation for you is to apply to colleges and universities that have ROTC programs.  If you prefer a military service such as the Navy, Army, Air Force, or Coast Guard, I recommend you apply to those colleges.  There are also universities (Texas A&M and Virginia Tech) that offer all branches in their ROTC Brigade; this way, it gives you options while you attend their universities. 

Semper Fi,
Major Phillips