ROTC Scholarship Interview

Colleges and Universities A-Z Naval Academy - Annapolis
1

<p>Hello, I'm applying for both an AFROTC and NROTC scholarship, and I'm beginning to worry about the interview needed for each of these. I've heard that after the candidates have been "filtered" using test scores/other objective criteria, the interview is the most important factor in deciding who is given full tuition scholarships. Naturally, I'm beginning to worry, and was hoping that some of you could fill me in on what to expect. My parents expect me to pay for my own college, and with a father and 2 sisters who went through ROTC, I've found that it's one of the best and most valuable methods of paying for college. So, any clues, anecdotal examples, etc regarding the interview (or application process in general) would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.</p>

<p>*note: my anticipated major (biochemistry or biomedical engineering) is listed as tier 2 for NROTC and not listed as either technical or non-technical for AFROTC.</p>

2

<p>With a “father and two sisters who went through ROTC” wouldn’t you already have trusted sources of information about “one of the best and most valuable methods of paying for college”?</p>

3

<p>Your ROTC interview is just like every other interview you’ll face as your career progresses (in any field). The advice is alway the same:</p>

<p>Prepare in advance - get to know the company you’re interviewing with. Think about what questions you may be asked and what your answers will be. Two for sure are: Why do you want to become a Naval Officer? and, What do you bring to the ROTC Unit (or Navy) that would make me want to recommend you? Know the career path and options that a ROTC graduate takes to the fleet. Think of two questions that are not answered in the literature. If you’re being interviewed by a naval Officer, perhaps ask about her career objectives and how they may have changed since she first got her commission.</p>

<p>Then:
Be on time (which mean 15 minutes early)
Dress nicely
Shake hands
Sit only after a chair is offered
Relax
Be yourself
Be honest
Thank your interviewer for her time</p>

4

<p>do the navy a favor and apply only to afrotc</p>

5

<p>just tell your interviewer the truth – that you want to do ROTC so you can pay for college. I’m sure he/she will understand your motivation. Whatever you do, just keep to yourself the part about how you’re not too excited about the actual active duty/service part :)</p>

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<p>forgot to add this: [Dripping</a> sarcasm image by adagio_photos on Photobucket](<a href=“Photo and Video Storage | Photobucket”>Photo and Video Storage | Photobucket)</p>

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<p>Thanks osdad, your input is very much appreciated(: </p>

<p>A few other questions: </p>

<ol>
<li><p>Should I reply “yes ma’am” to my interviewer (who is female). I don’t normally say ma’am or sir, so I’m worried it might appear forced/uncomfortable. </p></li>
<li><p>Sport coat, nice pants, nice shirt, and maybe a tie? This all seem ok, or overdressed?</p></li>
<li><p>Is it ok to answer those two basic questions (“Why Navy?” and What can you bring…?") with my responses to the 2 online application essays?–they basically asked the same things. </p></li>
<li><p>If I’m given an email address of my interviewer, would a follow-up thank-you email be a good idea, or just creepy?</p></li>
</ol>

<p>Again, thanks in advance. Other suggestions are welcome-my interview is THIS Friday!</p>

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<p>

</p>

<p>See >> above.</p>

9

<p>Does anyone know when applicants are notified of the NROTC scholarship decisions? Expected board meeting and release dates?</p>

<p>(Application submitted before Christmas)</p>

<p>Thanks</p>