What you can expect from JROTC:
The Marine Corps JROTC Program will develop character in high school students allowing them to become informed citizens prepared to willingly accept the responsibilities of citizenship. We are a unique program that stresses the learning of leadership skills that will enhance the lives of the young adults who participate. Instructors focus on the four basic indicators of leadership: morale, proficiency, espirit de corps, and most importantly, discipline.
In hundreds of towns and cities across America Marine Corp JROTC units play a critical role in shaping communities’ perceptions of the Corps. In this context, Instructors will take every opportunity to have units participate in community activities that represent the Corps’ Core Values.
Who Benefits from the MCJROTC:
Each Cadet directly benefits from the program! Like most young adults, cadets strive to prepare themselves for the future. Marine Corps JROTC helps develop the self-discipline and self-confidence cadets need to meet future stresses and succeed in adult life. While cadets incur NO military obligation, participation in Marine Corps JROTC can help those who are competing for college ROTC scholarships or military academy appointments.
Marine Corps JROTC encourages participation in community programs and projects, so our community benefits as well. It encourages civic responsibility and helps to develop strong and informed leaders for the future.
What MCJROTC Teaches:
The curriculum is a four-year program. It consists of a minimum of 96 hours per year of both classroom and field instruction in a wide variety of subjects.
JROTC provides citizenship training, leadership development, and an introduction to military service. Nonetheless, you can take it, even if you don’t want to join the military. The reason is that the curriculum covers various subjects. They include communication skills, citizenship, and physical fitness. In addition, it teaches ethics, leadership theory, military history, customs, courtesies and traditions.
There are instructions and participation in basic drill, the Manual of Arms, and how to conduct parades and inspections. MCJROTC students study first aid and personal hygiene. MCJROTC puts a strong emphasis on challenging physical training. There are programs for getting into shape and staying in shape. Nationwide physical fitness competitions are held with male and female groups vying for unit and individual awards. Marksmanship instruction is also a part of the curriculum (with parental consent). Cadets study the principles of small arms, safety precautions, and maintenance, and inspections of air rifles. Matches against other schools are held using the .177 caliber precision air rifle.
Admission to College:
JROTC will not 100% get a student into college. However, hours of leadership training, time management skills, and community service will make the committee think highly of you. It further presents you as a respectful and mature person. Including it in your resume shows dedication and involvement in a structured program. Hence, it differentiates a student from other applicants and It highlights an ability to handle many responsibilities. But bear in mind that the admission requirements differ from one school to another. In the end, each university has its own unique admission criteria. Nonetheless, JROTC can strengthen your application. IT EMPHASIZES YOUR STRENGTHS!
One of the mistakes students make is believing their GPA is enough to earn a spot at a top university or college. But contrary to the notion, it is not. The more activities you participated in outside campus, the higher the likelihood of getting ahead of a kid with a perfect 4.0 who did nothing but homework. Here are a few impressions JROTC leaves on your application:
Leadership development: Colleges value students with high leadership potential. JROTC helps students develop and enhance their leadership skills. Hence, it is an advantage.
Discipline and responsibility: The admission board recognizes JROTC’s emphasis on personal responsibility, time management, and discipline.
Physical fitness: The program promotes fitness via regular training and exercise. Schools focus on a healthy and active student body. Hence, it makes you a strong candidate.
Community service: Universities love students who volunteer and contribute to society. These activities show commitment to serving others and impacting the community.
Teamwork and collaboration: JROTC provides an opportunity for students to work in groups. As a result, they develop interpersonal skills, useful in a college environment.
Scholarship and networking opportunities: Many JROTC programs include awards to reduce tuition. Furthermore, they provide an opportunity to network with mentors, instructors, and peers. These connections come in handy for obtaining letters of recommendation and advice.
What does 2 years of JROTC get you:
Cadets presenting evidence of successful completion of at least 3 years of MCJROTC are entitled to advanced promotion to pay grade E-3 upon initial enlistment in an active or reserve component of the Navy or Air Force and pay grade E-2 in the Army or Marine Corps.