Emma Mayes

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Erin Robinson

Age: 21 | Hometown: Vilonia
High School: Vilonia High School
Future Career Goals: BSN RN, DNP APRN

Erin has always loved science and learning the ins and outs of how things work. When she was in high school she discovered her love for medical sciences – and that’s when she decided she wanted to pursue a career in nursing. While completing her nursing degree at the University of Central Arkansas, Erin also enrolled in the ROTC programs.

“I chose ROTC because I found the scholarship information online and I decided it would be better than having student loans. I have several family members that have served in the military, so it's familiar to me. I also have a guaranteed job after I graduate, which is a huge plus in this economy.

Erin was offered the Military Dependent Scholarship, the Arkansas Lottery Scholarship, the UCA Achievement Scholarship and the Army ROTC Scholarship. All scholarships come with criteria and basic requirements, but the most prominent scholarship in her college career is the ROTC scholarship. Not only is this scholarship paying for her full tuition, she is also required to serve in the military after graduation.

“I know I’m doing Active Duty Army Nursing for at least four years after I graduate,” Erin said. “I know I want to complete a doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) program after I’ve had some experience as an RN, but I’m not sure if I want to extend my Army contract for more education benefits. I’m also not sure about what area of nursing I want to specialize in. One of the things I really like about nursing is how flexible and broad your options can be.”

Erin’s advice for high schoolers wanting to pursue ROTC in college is to get to know the Cadre at the college you plan on attending and apply for the program as soon as you decide. Not only are they a mentor, but they are your first introduction to the program. 

“Some of my closest friends I’ve made through ROTC. It fosters very close relationships because you ‘endure the suck’ together: The early morning PT, running through missions in the rain, getting 3 or 4 hours of sleep at an FTX. The people you're with make all the difference.”

What You Need to Know

Do Your Research
There are a total of seven branches of the military: Navy, Air Force, Army, Marine Corps., National Guard, Air National Guard and Coast Guard. Requirements to enlist in each individual branch are similar and there are notable differences, including age, physical ability and academic test scores.

Talk to a Recruiter
Each branch has its own website with contact information for its recruiter. Don’t be afraid to reach out through a phone call or email. Colleges with ROTC programs have recruiters you can reach out to for more information.

Study & Score High
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is offered at the Military Entrance Processing Station, your high school or through the recruiter you reached out to. Each branch requires a different score, so study hard and score high!

Get Physical
Expect nothing less than timed miles and intense pull-up, push-up and crunch routines for the physical exam at the branch of your choice. Each branch has its own specific score for the physical requirements, so make sure you train and feel prepared to ace this test.

Take the Final Steps
Visit a Military Entrance Processing Station to take care of any final requirements, report any medical history and sign your enlistment papers.

Go to Boot Camp
Get ready to be pushed to your limit at boot camp. You’ll be pushed past your breaking point while bonding with your fellow recruits—and celebrating after graduation (a huge accomplishment!).