While thoughts of what to do after college weigh heavily on the minds of many University seniors, those involved with the ROTC program had their immediate futures laid out for them recently when they received confirmation on precisely how they will be serving their country after graduation.

The program has not only shaped the graduating ROTC students’ futures, but also their lives spent on campus these past years.

“Through ROTC I made a ton of friends,” said Ben Alvarez, who will be entering active duty after this semester.

The influences of their involvement extend beyond socialization and into the classroom.

“I feel more confidence in myself in classes,” Alvarez said.

Family history and financial support which helps to fund the costs ROTC members incur in those classrooms encouraged some, such as future Army reserve engineer Brent Arnold, to make the commitment to a military lifestyle.

“Both of my brothers went through ROTC,” said Arnold. “It was my gateway to paying for college.”

The dedication inherent to those who have opted to immerse themselves in a challenging environment others found appealing.

“It seemed like a good place for me because you surround yourself with a lot of motivated individuals,” said Jason Hussey who will be entering active duty in the infantry division.

Regarding the duties which they will confront domestically and abroad, these student soldiers plan to face them with anticipation equal to the ambition with which they have tackled their studies at the University.

Aaron Keighley is anxious to put the skills he has learned in ROTC to practical use in the field working for military intelligence in the armor division.

“The challenge I am looking forward to is actually leading the soldiers,” Keighley said.

Those cadets serving in the reserve will put to the test their time management abilities while they balance the responsibilities of civilian and military life.

“I’ll be a weekend warrior, working both a full time job and doing army on the weekends,” Arnold said.

For those entering active duty, while the possible dangers may be greater than those of reservists, their training has taught them to face any obstacles unflinchingly.

“It will be interesting to get out and experience the Army how it really is,” Hussey said.