Christian Bradley always had his sights set on military service. He had a hard time deciding which branch to pursue, so when the time to choose came, he left it to fate. “It was either enlist in the Navy, or pray for an Army ROTC scholarship,” he says, “and God decided college is where I needed to be, so Army ROTC it was.”

Now a sophomore, Christian is already a leader in multiple facets of his life at the University of Arkansas–Monticello while also working toward a degree in communications. “I’m aspiring to learn new languages in order to become more valuable in the job market, whether it be military or not.”

What’s the ROTC program like?
The program, because of its size, allows me to step up into a leadership position quite often. As a freshman, I led the color guard for every home game, I led physical training and stepped up in every way I could.

Any tips for managing the workload?
I set a priority list, making sure I get my school work done first because GPA is a huge part of your OML (Order of Merit List—a ranking system of distinction for cadets: the higher you are on the list, the better).

What’s been the biggest challenge so far? And how have you overcome it?
The mental workload. Talking to your cadre is the best way to beat that stress. They’ve been there and done that. They have the most answers.

Why should high school students consider the military route?
In my opinion, military service is the most honorable profession anyone can have. Serving your country, putting on that uniform, makes you a part of something that is so much bigger than yourself, and teaches you how to work with others as a single unit.

This option is for you if:

• You’re an adventure-seeker
• You like the idea of not paying for college
• You want to serve your country