Army Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps is a group of students seen around campus daily, but not many students know what they really do. Members of JROTC typically wear their camouflage uniforms a couple of times each week and are easily recognizable around campus. Each week, they meet up with members of Basha high school’s JROTC group at Basha high school, and then come back to Perry for their normal school day.

Junior Hannah Hunt explained what she’s working towards as a JROTC member, stating, “I want to do something in the military in the future– I’m not really sure what, I wanna be an officer.” Hunt went on to further explain, “We do things like the Veterans Day parade and perform at assemblies.” While the program can be strict and military-oriented, students still have plenty of unique opportunities that are a part of JROTC.

Junior Madison Smiles explained why she joined JROTC back in her freshman year, stating, “I joined because I thought it was an interesting program with a lot of unique opportunities.” JROTC goes on trips each year and explores different career opportunities for students.

Recently, JROTC traveled to ASU to find out information about their ROTC program and how JROTC members can continue in the program throughout the future. Most JROTC members work in the program to build a future in the military. Smiles shared her plans for the future, stating, “I want to do something in astronomy, but if that doesn’t work out then I’m planning to do cyber for the Air Force.” Continuing in military programs can help students find a military career, get into military colleges, and help them build a well-structured future, no matter what path they choose in life.

The program allows them to embrace a leadership role and learn about their rights as a United States citizen. It’s a good opportunity for any student to build their leadership and technical skills and helps students to create a brighter future for themselves.