She always arrives 15 minutes early. She uses “sir” and “ma’am” to address people her own age. And she obeys commands like a trained German shepherd. Amanda Barrett is a junior ROTC student at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, and she has military pride running through her blood. Her dad was a soldier in the U.S. Army; her mom was in the Army National Guard, and two of her siblings went on to pursue military endeavors. The self-proclaimed “army brat” seemed destined to do the same. “Ever since I was about 4 years old, I have wanted and have known I would go into the military,” she said. “I wanted to be a criminal investigator and ‘catch all the bad guys,’ [and] to this day I still do.”

Barrett looked into what local schools had Army ROTC programs and attended a preview day at ASU. The campus and the Cadre quickly sold her on the program. “Our Cadre is honestly one-of-a-kind,” she said. “They listen to problems and offer great feedback no matter if you are in a class, just hanging out at the armory, or in the field.”

The program, designed to commission the future officer leadership of the U.S. Army, includes many labs, drills, classes and fitness training. The labs teach the cadets step-by-step processes in 360 security, movement in wedges and files, and how to react to contact. She gets to put the lessons to use during battle drills using what she said is “everyone’s new favorite training aid” – paintball guns.

Her advice to those considering joining an ROTC program? “Do it. It’s a great way to meet others and learn more about yourself, she said. “Confidence and esteem are built,” she said. “Even though it is tough at times, it is worth joining an ROTC program.”

If I start taking ROTC courses, do I have to join the military?
Nope. You can enroll in the ROTC Basic Course (the first two years of college) without being obligated to serve, unless you received a ROTC scholarship.

What are the eligibility requirements for a ROTC scholarship?
Financial need doesn’t matter – scholarships are merit based. You must be a U.S. citizen between the ages of 17 and 26, have a high school diploma with a GPA of at least 2.5 and meet physical standards.

How much is the scholarship worth?
A Two-, three-, and four-year scholarships are available, and they pay full tuition and fees, and provide a separate allowance for books and a monthly stipend of up to $5,000.

How long do I have to serve in the military if I accept a ROTC scholarship?
Four years.

Can I go into the Army Reserve or National Guard instead of the actual Army after graduation?
In some cases, yes. Check the Army National Guard website for more details.