Cadet Kristin K.

What was ROTC first like when you joined the program?

At first I was intimidated by the people around me such as the officers, the leaders, and the cadets because they knew a lot about the Air Force. I did not know as much as the other cadets. However, as the semester progressed, I became more comfortable with the people around me. I quickly developed friendships and gained more knowledge about the program.

What inspired you to become a cadet?

My Uncle was the one who inspired me to become a cadet. He is in the Air Force and is currently stationed in Afghanistan. When he told me about the benefits that you could receive and the chances to travel, I immediately became interested. Since my major is nursing, I thought it would be awesome to become a nurse in the Air Force.

Why did you decide to join the Air Force?

I decided to join the Air Force because it has so many things to offer. For example, you receive benefits such as health and  dental care. Also, the Air Force offers you have the ability to travel around the world while receiving allowances for various technical skills.

What was it like for you adapting to a ROTC/Air Force life?

Adapting to a ROTC/Air Force life took time getting used to. Having to wake up early for 0630 physical training - making sure my uniform is ironed and shoes polished - took time & discipline. At first it was hard to adapt to, but now I've gotten used to it. Along with Air Force tasks, I'm still able to accomplish all of my daily tasks. From it all, I've learned to have discipline and to use time wisely.

How difficult is it for you to balance ROTC and schoolwork while maintaining an active social life?

Balancing ROTC, schoolwork, and an active social life is sometimes difficult to handle. Having to wake up for 0630 classes is difficult while having to change from PT's to my uniform or casual clothing takes time, but it's manageable. I'm still able to go out with friends and have fun while catching up with academic work. Overall, it isn't really hard to balance. It just takes a lot more discipline to make it work.

Cadet Matt P.

How difficult is it for you to balance ROTC and schoolwork while maintaining an active social life?

The first year of ROTC was quite an adjustment. Going from high school to college is a hard adjustment for anybody, but adding ROTC on top of the demands of college made it even more difficult. After my first semester of college and ROTC I slowly started to adjust. Now that I have completed my third semester of ROTC and balancing school work, I no longer find it difficult to balance everything.

Why did you decide to join the Air Force?

I decided to join the Air Force for several reasons. The first reason being that I have always wanted to fly and the Air Force gave me the best options to become a pilot. The second reason that I joined the Air Force is to serve my country and I felt I owed it to our country to serve and am very happy with my decision.

What have you most gotten out of ROTC?
The most that I have gotten out of ROTC is leadership skills. Our Detachment has very good cadets and cadre to learn from which makes it easier to grow and develop as leaders. The second thing that I have taken from ROTC is confidence. Getting up in front of a large crowd and talking or walking up to someone to introduce myself is no problem anymore. The third thing I have taken from the program is a whole new group of friends, everyone at our detachment is very close and it's great to be apart of such a great organization.

How has ROTC helped you in your personal life?

ROTC has helped out greatly in my personal life as well. ROTC has taught me to have drive, if I want something I will go after it. Also, ROTC has taught me the only way to succeed is to be organized and disciplined. The last thing that ROTC has helped me with is my health. Going to Physical training every week has put me in great shape. I have gained so much in my personal life from ROTC both internally and externally

Cadet Evan K.

Why did you decide to join the Air Force?

I decided to join the Air Force, first because of its unique mission. Anytime the US military is used as an instrument of National Policy, Airmen, and Air Force assets will be there in some capacity and I want to be a part of that. Secondly, I chose the Air Force because of the lifestyle and quality of life Airmen enjoy.

How have the skills you learned in ROTC helped you to be an effective leader?

The benefits of going through this program are in my opinion very case sensitive. As with all learning experiences, you get as much or as little as you put into it and I think this program has really changed my drive, willingness to learn, and to take criticism and learn from it. It has also built my confidence level up far beyond what it was before AFROTC.

What challenges and triumphs have you experienced?

Field Training was a defining moment for me in my ROTC career, it was my first solid experience with the rigors of military discipline and it really served to make me aware of the monumental responsibilities we will have once we're awarded a commission.

What is the most important thing you have learned while in ROTC?

I've learned that setting goals and following through is extremely important and that being reliable is the key to becoming a successful Cadet.

Cadet Paul D.

When you commission what will your job be in the Air Force?

I will commission this summer on 30 July 2007 and I will be an Air Battle Manager.

What leadership skills does ROTC develop as you prepare for commissioning?

The leadership skills that ROTC has helped me develop are people management, public speaking and handling stress.  I feel that in ROTC we cover these skills on numerous occasions and as an Air Force Officer we will be confronted with these same situations on a daily basis. 

What has been your most memorable moments while in ROTC?

My most memorable experiences while in ROTC has been participating in Warrior Challenge, going to Field Training, and of course beating Army in football and softball.  I often think about Warrior Challenge and how important it for us to beat our rival, Fresno.  I still have dreams of the past Warrior Challenges and how close we have been to victory. Another memorable moment was attending Field Training which was the first real defining moment of my ROTC and Air Force career, and I will never forget the experiences. Lastly, I will never forget the Army and Air Force football games where we dominate every year. Each semester I look forward to beating Army in both softball and football.