5 minute read
Why I Joined JROTC
By Jenna Linde, Senior at Dysart High School
Joining Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) was one of the most defining decisions of my life. It started as a curiosity, something I thought would be an interesting extracurricular to fill my time, but over time it has proven to be much more. It has helped me grow in ways I never expected, instilling values of discipline, leadership, respect, and responsibility.
At the start, my decision to join JROTC was based on a sense of curiosity and a desire for structure. Before I came to high school, I was searching for something to give my life more direction. I felt that the traditional school experience wasn’t enough to prepare me for the challenges of my future. When I first heard about the JROTC program, it piqued my interest. The idea of learning about leadership, military principles, and serving my community seemed both intriguing and promising. Initially, I didn’t have a clear understanding of what JROTC truly entailed, but I felt that it would provide a unique opportunity to develop my character and leadership skills.
My first day in JROTC was a mixture of excitement and nervousness. I remember seeing higher ranking cadets dressed in their uniforms, and there was a sense of order and discipline that I wasn’t accustomed to in school. At first, I struggled to adjust to the rules, uniform requirements, and military-style instructions. However, over time, I began to see the value in these practices. I learned that discipline is more than following rules—it’s about developing habits that support success in all areas of life. The structured environment of JROTC encouraged me to organize my time better, focus on my studies, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Each drill, each lesson, and each uniform inspection became a small part of a larger process of self-improvement.
JROTC has also played a critical role in helping me develop leadership skills. In my first year, I was just another cadet following orders. However, as I progressed through the program, I was given opportunities to take on more responsibility. By becoming the Special Projects Officer in the staff class, then the Executive Officer, and finally the Battalion Commander, I was tasked with guiding my peers, making decisions, and ensuring that everyone adhered to the standards set by the program. This was a significant learning experience. I made mistakes along the way, but I also learned how to improve, adapt, and motivate others. I realized leadership is not just about issuing commands, but about understanding your team, listening to their concerns, and leading by example.
One of the most important lessons I have learned in JROTC is the value of teamwork. It is often said that no one achieves greatness alone, and JROTC has made this lesson abundantly clear. Whether it was organizing a community service project, preparing for a raider competition, or working on a class project, the success of the group depended on the cooperation and dedication of everyone involved. I have learned to value the input of others, respect differing opinions, and work toward common goals. These experiences have not only improved my ability to work as part of a team but also increased my understanding of what makes a successful team dynamic. The importance of communication, trust, and mutual support cannot be overstated.
Beyond leadership and teamwork, JROTC has also advanced my personal development in other significant ways. For instance, it has helped me build confidence in myself and my abilities. The first time I had to speak in front of a crowd during a ceremony, I was terrified. However, after completing several public speaking exercises, I grew more comfortable with expressing myself. Today, I can speak confidently in front of groups, a skill that will serve me well in my future career and personal life. Additionally, JROTC has instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility. As a cadet, I am expected to maintain high standards of conduct, punctuality, and academic performance. The program emphasizes that each cadet is accountable for their actions and the actions of their peers. This has helped me develop a strong work ethic and a sense of pride in my achievements. Whether it’s ensuring that I keep my uniform clean and pressed or that I complete my assignments on time, JROTC has reinforced the importance of accountability in all aspects of life.
Another part of JROTC that has helped me tremendously is the focus on citizenship and service. Through various community service projects and initiatives, I have had the opportunity to give back to my community and make a positive impact. This has taught me the value of serving others and the importance of being an active and engaged citizen. It has made me more aware of the
challenges people face and more empathetic to those in need. Whether it was organizing a canned food drive or participating in an Adopt-a-Street event, these experiences have broadened my perspective and reinforced my commitment to making a difference.
Lastly, JROTC has helped me academically. The skills I’ve developed—discipline, time management, leadership, and teamwork—have directly translated into my schoolwork. I find that I am more focused and organized in my studies, and I approach challenges with a problemsolving mindset. JROTC has been an incredibly rewarding experience, which is why I have chosen to continue my education after high school and pursue a career in the military.
