<p>Does anyone know what it is like to be in the Corps of Cadets at TAMU? Are they pretty much segregated from the rest of the population or do they just live in their own dorm? Do they wear uniforms all the time? What do the rest of the students think of them? How many students are in the corps of cadets? How many of them are on ROTC scholarships? Any information would be appreciated.</p>
<p>Howdy! I'm a prospective member of the Corps of Cadets. I've been to two Corps orientation programs and have done much research on the Corps. I'll try to answer each of your questions as accurately as possible.</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Being in the Corps is not a decision to be taken lightly. It is hard work and very challenging. But, of course, the reward is great. In the Corps, you learn discipline, integrity, leadership, and much more.</p></li>
<li><p>The Corps lives in their own dorms and conducts their own lifestyle. However, besides Corps obligations, the cadets are just like other students and can do pretty much anything they do.</p></li>
<li><p>Cadets wear their uniform to class everyday.</p></li>
<li><p>I can't answer this from experience (what other students think of them), but from what I heard, the ladies find them hot.</p></li>
<li><p>The Corps consists of 2,000+ cadets.</p></li>
<li><p>I'm not sure on the statistics, but between the various ROTC branch scholarships, Corps of Cadet scholarship, and Texas A&M scholarships, a lot if not most have some kind of scholarship.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>Zach summed it up pretty well. Just to elaborate as my father was in the Corps, I went to A&M and dated guys in the Corps, and my son has applied to A&M, has an Army ROTC 4 year scholarship and is hoping mightily to join the Corps, you really have to WANT to be in the Corps to join and be successful. For those who think joining will just help them get admission when they otherwise would not, it is usually an unpleasant surprise. It is much harder to be in the Corps than just going to college as a "non-reg" (Corps term for the civilian student population). Your day begins at 5:30 am, at least Monday through Friday, and doesn't end until lights out about 10:30 pm. Your freshman year is very harsh with a lot of harassment by the sophomore class. Lots of yelling, standing at attention, physical exertion, having to introduce yourself (loudly) to each upperclassman you pass on the Quad (dorm complex where the Corps lives) etc. If you're aware of all that and want to plunge ahead, by all means do. Your experience at A&M as a member of the Corps will bond you for life to your fellow cadets and the University.</p>
<p>As far as how you are viewed by the rest of the student body, as with any group, there will be people that have great respect for you and people that will act like jerks. Fortunately, a lot more of the former than the latter. Just remember, how YOU behave goes a long way to developing how others perceive the Corps as a whole. Be proud, but be humble. Don't walk around with a "holier than thou attitude" because you chose the harder lifestyle of the Corps while others did not.</p>
<p>I know that all sounds kind of preachy, but as someone whose family has been a part of A&M for half a century, I hold that place close to my heart. I have worn my Aggie ring proudly for over 20 years. Hope that helps!</p>
<p>Zach, on another subject, how is your AFROTC Scholarship application progressing? Any word yet?</p>
<p>gxgal7, I have finished the online application, but need to do the PFA and turn in my other paperwork. I should of done that PFA three months ago when the weather was warm and I was in shape. :P</p>
<p>I however, do have all my paperwork in for TAMU admissions. xD</p>
<p>Great responses! I have a much better idea of what it's like. I have applied to the Naval Academy, with the Corps of Cadets and NROTC as a back-up. I am looking forward to the challenges either way. My only remaining concern is the attitude of Texans to those who are not. I read that 96% of TAMU students are from Texas. Will I be welcomed or viewed with suspicion as an outsider until people get to know me?</p>
<p>WA2013, it is true that the vast majority of Aggies are Texans. Part of the reason for this is that it is such a popular school in the state and, since it has such a huge population, there are more than enough students to fill it with its own residents. A&M does set aside at least 4% of its admission slots for out-of-state students. As far as how you're treated, frankly I don't think anybody cares where you're from as long as your nice and appreciate the pride that Texans have for where they're from. A&M has a reputation as being a very friendly campus. If you are trying to get into one of the service academies, then life in the Corps will actually be less restricting than what you would experience at Annapolis.</p>
<p>Zach, get all your outstanding paperwork in as soon as possible. The boards have already started meeting to select scholarship recipients and the longer it takes you to get everything in, the less boards that will be available for you to be considered for. An ROTC scholarship will also increase your chances of getting into A&M.</p>
<p>I have friends in the Corps, and personally I wouldn't recommend it. I have the up most respect for the Corps... but your freedom is very limited, especially as a freshman. Your life outside of the Corps starts out minimal and gradually grows into more. You have to wake-up bright and early at 4 I believe and that time will change with your time spent in the Corps. It's involves a lot of discipline and self-motivation, but I know many that have gained rewarding experiences through it. You also can get cool privileges such as being a Yell Leader or taking care of the school mascot Reveille.</p>