ROTC for the Scholar-Leader-Athlete

It used to be that Uncle Sam wanted you—and the 'you' was pretty much anybody willing to join. Today, he's getting a bit more selective, especially when it comes to officer material. Uncle Sam is looking for leaders—leaders in the classroom, in the community, and on the field of play.

The armed froces want scholar-leader-athletes—the student trifecta. ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) programs on campus, the officer's track for a career in the any of the military branches, wants students who have good grades, excel in sports, and who have served as a student or community leader. Why? Well, those kids show the mental and physical toughness and discipline that is required for leadership on the battlefield and in the boardroom.

ROTC is highly selective and will only accept students who lead by example, who positively influence their peers, who are selfless in work and play, and who crave mental and physical challenges. Do you think you fit the bill? Then ROTC wants you after all.

Those of you who seemingly excel in everything might not be have considered a life in the military. You may have your eye on climbing the ladder in the business world, a career in professional sports, or a life in elected office.

The Army, for example, believes ROTC is, in their words, "the perfect stepping stone" to a successful career in the real world. ROTC is "the best leadership course in America," giving students hands on experience in leadership qualities that are needed in most careers. After graduation, students in the program are commissioned officers. They put their leadership skills to the test every day, and when they leave the field of battle, they are prepared for any career in the business world.

For those who have an interest in public service, you might consider starting a career as an Army officer. Many officers have gone on to serve their country further in government as elected representatives, appointed officials and even in the White House.

ROTC scholarships are also available to pay for college. Since sports are encouraged, ROTC scholarships do not count against sports scholarship allocations, and coaches love the discipline and drive that can be found in ROTC students.

So, if you've got good grades, got game, and even got government goals, you may want to look into an ROTC program.