Does anyone know anything about college-level ROTC admissions? Perferably AFROTC, but any would be cool.
I don't know much, specifically, about ROTC, although I am a Distinguished Military Graduate of ROTC. My problem is how long ago I was commissioned.
Suggest that you Google ROTC and you should get all kinds of websites on the subject. For the Army, I do know that the Army Cadet Command is the place to go: don't know much about the Air Force program.
Everything you need to know, right here: http://afrotc.com/ (http://afrotc.com/)
Quote from: titanII on March 03, 2012, 02:56:20 PM
Everything you need to know, right here: http://afrotc.com/ (http://afrotc.com/)
I have questions as a result of reading that site. Which is why I made this thread.
Schedule a meeting with your local College ROTC unit.
Quote from: Extremepredjudice on March 03, 2012, 06:14:09 PM
Quote from: titanII on March 03, 2012, 02:56:20 PM
Everything you need to know, right here: http://afrotc.com/ (http://afrotc.com/)
I have questions as a result of reading that site. Which is why I made this thread.
Oh, sorry. What exactly are your questions, so we can better answer them?
Quote from: bosshawk on March 03, 2012, 07:12:49 AM
I don't know much, specifically, about ROTC, although I am a Distinguished Military Graduate of ROTC. My problem is how long ago I was commissioned.
Suggest that you Google ROTC and you should get all kinds of websites on the subject. For the Army, I do know that the Army Cadet Command is the place to go: don't know much about the Air Force program.
C'mon Paul.....just because you were issued a sabre as an actual weapon and got to break your own horse doesnt mean your input isnt valid >:D
Quote from: Extremepredjudice on March 03, 2012, 05:23:13 AM
Does anyone know anything about college-level ROTC admissions? Perferably AFROTC, but any would be cool.
What little I know about the AFROTC program (one of our cadets started this year) It may be difficult to get tuition completely paid for now. They have various specific college majors that are on their hot list so to speak that can get funded more easily. My understand is that there's very little first year funding (freshman) but they want you to be in the program to see how well you do, and of course this is going to determine on whether they even want to fund you the following year. I know he was going to be a language major of some sort (maybe Chinese).
HOWEVER, realistically, the AF is going to require less people in the future and my guess is that's going to affect the ROTC college education funded program as well as the OTS program. Personally, I like the idea of our current enlisted force having the first opportunity at commissioning via OTS in that the learning curve is quicker. On the flying side I'd like to see them just bring back the AF Warrant Officer program and with as little as an an associate degree you could be flying. I don't think most fliers in the AF really need a BA degree, since flying is more a skill than an academic process of acquiring credentials.
RM
Quote from: Extremepredjudice on March 03, 2012, 05:23:13 AM
Does anyone know anything about college-level ROTC admissions? Perferably AFROTC, but any would be cool.
I went through the program. What do you want to know ?
I went through the NROTC Marine Option, its pretty straight forward. I was contacted by an Marine Recruiter about it, and decided to try it out, still waiting to hear back about it.
First you fill out an application online. Then you do a PT Test (run 3 miles, pull ups, sit ups (2 minutes)). The recruiter have some paper work that needed to be filled out at the office, so I gave them the information. You have to get at least 2 letters of recommendation, 1 from English/Math Teacher, other from Coach/Teacher/Employer. You get taken down to the Federal building where you have an interview with a Marine Officer, then hope and pray you said the right things, and are getting the scholarship! I think that's all.
Like the man said. Contact the nearest ROTC cadre and ask. The Professor of Military Sciences is the man who has those answers. Why ask CAP members ?
Quote from: MStein on March 03, 2012, 08:43:40 PM
First you fill out an application online. Then you do a PT Test (run 3 miles, pull ups, sit ups (2 minutes)). The recruiter have some paper work that needed to be filled out at the office, so I gave them the information. You have to get at least 2 letters of recommendation, 1 from English/Math Teacher, other from Coach/Teacher/Employer. You get taken down to the Federal building where you have an interview with a Marine Officer, then hope and pray you said the right things, and are getting the scholarship! I think that's all.
The details are a bit different for AFROTC:
You fill out the resume stuff online
PT Test: 1.5 mile run, 1 min push ups, 1 min sit ups
You interview with an AFROTC officer from the nearest Detachment to where you live
Not entirely sure about the recommendations though
Quote from: titanII on March 03, 2012, 11:47:35 PM
Quote from: MStein on March 03, 2012, 08:43:40 PM
First you fill out an application online. Then you do a PT Test (run 3 miles, pull ups, sit ups (2 minutes)). The recruiter have some paper work that needed to be filled out at the office, so I gave them the information. You have to get at least 2 letters of recommendation, 1 from English/Math Teacher, other from Coach/Teacher/Employer. You get taken down to the Federal building where you have an interview with a Marine Officer, then hope and pray you said the right things, and are getting the scholarship! I think that's all.
The details are a bit different for AFROTC:
You fill out the resume stuff online
PT Test: 1.5 mile run, 1 min push ups, 1 min sit ups
You interview with an AFROTC officer from the nearest Detachment to where you live
Not entirely sure about the recommendations though
Even if you in no way plan to go there? The nearest detachment is like 200 miles away. I assume I have to meet them at their location.
I know there is a list of accepted majors. My major isn't on there, though it is close to Compiter Science, is there any way to apply and get a scholarship for my major?
What type of recommendations should I get? Ex-military, LE, parole officers, lawyers, PhDs, instructors that are in my major's field, cap members? Etc...
When should I collect my things to apply? I.E. Run down recommendations, make sure I meet the requirements, etc.
When should I start to apply for ROTC?
Should I apply to the college first?
Do I need to specify a college?
Would food allergies be an issue (nothing life threatening)?
Any pitfall I should be aware of?
Edit: what do I wear to the interview? CAP uniform is probably out.
Suit? Nice shirt and tie? Or will I be doing PT after/before the intervoew?
Should I treat it like a review board? Attention, report in, etc?
Even if you in no way plan to go there? The nearest detachment is like 200 miles away. I assume I have to meet them at their location.
-- You must apply and meet - in person- at the detachment you wish to attend.
I know there is a list of accepted majors. My major isn't on there, though it is close to Computer Science, is there any way to apply and get a scholarship for my major?
--If your major is not listed you are SOL for a FEDERAL scholarship. However some STATES offer tuition waivers for up to 100% IF you sign a contract to serve with the ANG after your AD time is up. This is in no way guaranteed, not offered by every state, and in those that do expect to fight tooth and nail with every other cadet for the $$$.
PS- If your major is not on the scholarship list, don't plan on getting your first picks on your dream sheet.
What type of recommendations should I get? Ex-military, LE, parole officers, lawyers, PhDs, instructors that are in my major's field, cap members? Etc...
--All of the above, with emphasis on current or retired military officers and others who have had both a close association with you and have a higher educational background. ... Joe Schmo CAP Senior member is not your best bet.
When should I collect my things to apply? I.E. Run down recommendations, make sure I meet the requirements, etc.
--Everything should be submitted prior to March of your Senior year in H.S. especially if you want to have ANY hope of getting financial assistance.
When should I start to apply for ROTC?
--As soon as the college has formally accepted you. - No later than October of your H.S . Senior year.
Should I apply to the college first?
--Absolutely. Paperwork will not be processed otherwise.
Do I need to specify a college?
--Absolutely.
Would food allergies be an issue (nothing life threatening)?
--Very possible.
Any pitfall I should be aware of?
--Work on your PT prior to applying. A passing PT test is required prior to getting any financial assistance. Also, as I just mentioned ANY medical issue could very well be a dis-qualifier... Last I checked AFROTC only accepted 30% of those that applied.
Edit: what do I wear to the interview? CAP uniform is probably out.
Suit? Nice shirt and tie?
--Business Casual. No CAP uniform, no blue jeans. ... Polo and khakis should do it. ( And meet grooming specs)
Or will I be doing PT after/before the interview?
-- Negative
Should I treat it like a review board? Attention, report in, etc?
--Use the same decorum, but ditch the saluting and whatnot. You will be out of uniform, the cadre will be in dress blues sans jacket.
Pick up the phone and call the university they have cadets that can answer all your questions. Look for local high schools in you're area with a JROTC of the branch you are interested in and talk to the instructors. Call an air force officers recruiting station. There is always a way to get the information you want.
Well, all this revolves around your current grade: are you a high school senior, or a junior?
If you're a junior, AFROTC scholarship applications start online sometime in the May/June range. If you're a senior, then I know you can't apply for high school scholarships anymore, but I don't know about getting into AFROTC in general.
Sorry, SAR-EMT1 but things must've changed since you went through:
You interview at the nearest detachment to where you live- not at the college you want to attend.
Fill out your scholarship application before some date in December/January (can't remember) of your senior year.
This is more of an opinion, but I'd think you'd want for your recommendations someone who can speak well of your personality, work ethic, leadership skills, etc. So if that person turns out to be a Commander, teacher, or whatever, you just want to make sure they have somewhat of a legitimate title. (for example, ex-Air Force CC instead of ex-Navy uncle)
So basically here's your timeline:
Apply online for scholarships before December-ish of senior year
Apply to colleges whenever you please, depending on early decision/action, etc.
When you get into a college, and enroll, sign up for that local Detachment.
Quote from: SAR-EMT1 on March 04, 2012, 12:39:45 AM
-- You must apply and meet - in person- at the detachment you wish to attend.
I applied for AFROTC and NROTC scholarships this year. If you have any questions, feel free to PM me. It's important to recognize that most of the feedback being given is for the High School Scholarship Program. To answer the above question as far as scholarships go, you don't need to interview at the detachment you wish to attend.
The neat thing about AFROTC scholarships is that with the exception of Commander's Leadership Scholarships, any scholarship can be used at any school with your major. This is different than the Army and Navy-their scholarships are tied to schools.
Take a look at www.serviceacademyforums.com (http://www.serviceacademyforums.com). There is a ton of information about ROTC scholarships and tips for interviews.
Quote from: Extremepredjudice on March 04, 2012, 12:05:03 AM
I know there is a list of accepted majors. My major isn't on there, though it is close to Compiter Science, is there any way to apply and get a scholarship for my major?
Computer Science or Computer/Electrical Engineering are probably ok, but I don't know what the list looks like right now.
If you are looking at like information systems, you're probably going to have a tougher sell.
Your det will need to look at the curriculum of your major and decide if it matches closely enough with the 'intent' of the scholarship program (in other words, if you are majoring in something that is JUST LIKE computer science, but they just call it a different name, then you may be ok)
You can do a lot of the preliminary work by phone, and after you have established contact, email.
There will be no problem with that up front,
eventually you are going to have to make an in person campus visit.
QuoteWhat type of recommendations should I get? Ex-military, LE, parole officers, lawyers, PhDs, instructors that are in my major's field, cap members? Etc...
I'd do up to 3 quite frankly.
USAF wants to see total person. They can get grades and general athletic ability from your transcripts and letters. They want a character assessment. Are you respectful? Dependable? Honorable? Do you have the 'temperament' to make a good officer?
QuoteWhen should I collect my things to apply? I.E. Run down recommendations, make sure I meet the requirements, etc.
When should I start to apply for ROTC?
There will be an application deadline for the upcoming semester. It should be printed on that site; the det will know when it is as well. Make sure you have everything completely done and submitted prior to the deadline. Work as far ahead as you need to, to avoid busting that cut off.
QuoteShould I apply to the college first?
Do I need to specify a college?
The det can answer that question better. There are different types of scholarships... some you can take and spend at "any school" you want (that's authorized). Most ROTC dets accept 'cross town' students who may go to school across town or even out of town, and then just drive in to the major University or whatever for their ROTC specific classes a couple days a week.
Seems like you would have to be admitted to the U where ROTC was just for taking the ROTC classes; although some universities have programs where you can take classes without being admitted formally.
Of course if you can't even get accepted/admitted to the University where the ROTC det is, you can probably forget about a scholarship...
QuoteWould food allergies be an issue (nothing life threatening)?
I'm not quite sure how they handle that, they probably ask it on the application. There are certain allergies and other conditions that will disqualify you from service. I imagine that if you are going on scholarship, or if not, before you leave for field training, you'll have to have a physical done, where they will determine that status.
I wouldn't report anything that isn't /DIAGNOSED/ in-writing, by a doctor, in your medical file.
QuoteAny pitfall I should be aware of?
Don't try to cop attitude based on your CAP or other life experience.
Don't try to impress the O5 or O6 interviewing you with your hard core militaryness,
and don't act like you are entitled
You are applying for a job; there are more applicants than there are positions to fill;
Be the best applicant in consideration, and hope you get picked, ahead of the other guys.
QuoteEdit: what do I wear to the interview? CAP uniform is probably out.
Suit? Nice shirt and tie? Or will I be doing PT after/before the intervoew?
NOT your CAP uniform. It can only hurt you.
I'd wear a reasonable business casual to the interview. No jeans or tennis shoes.
A tie might be a little much, unless you are comfortable with it and pull it off well.
Have your hair, grooming, and jewlrey within AF standards.
You can usually do your PT at home...
Your coach or gym teacher can probably issue it to you,
I have even done them for CAP cadets at the squadron.
The person who admins the test for you can just send your results in, and certify that they tested you right and that your performance is accurate.
Get a 90-something or 100 on the PT... That will make you stand out right away.
QuoteShould I treat it like a review board? Attention, report in, etc?
NO. Treat it like 'any' job interview.
Introduce yourself with eye contact, direct speech, and a firm handshake.
Sit up straight, listen attentively, be engaged in the conversation.
Everything is sounding pretty good here. The best thing you can do it take the things here and confirm them with the detachment you are interested in. Things change all the time. I'm in the Holm Center and write curriculum for ROTC/OTS. Just remember you need to show you are a well rounded individual. They need to see a potential for leadership, proven commitment, and that you have the potential for making it through the program. Things are different now and your major is a big factor in determining if you get a scholarship or not. But, you must also realize getting a scholarship doesn't guarantee a commission. Slots for Field Training are down right now and tough to get...even if you are on scholarship.
One of the things I like to bring up is if your end goal is to be an officer in the USAF, don't let a scholarship be a deterrent. There are lots of ways of paying for college. Not everyone in ROTC is on scholarship and the majority aren't (at least when I went through 03-07).
Good luck!
P.S. I think I might still be on the website where they interviewed current cadets. It used to be under current students or something. I'm one of the ones from Auburn.
I was going to say that I know at least one lurker who works with ROTC at the HQ level that you should ask, but apparently he found this thread first.