 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
What's life like for a LSU Cadet? By Matthew Byrd, sophomore
After PT, you can shower at the Rec Center if you have a 7:30 class. The majority of us go to the dining facility to eat breakfast together. It's very informal, and it's where we get the chance to learn a lot about our fellow cadets. After breakfast, everyone splits up and heads off to their individual classes. Because there are many sections offered, we are not all in the same ROTC class, except for Thursdays at 3 p.m, when we have Lab where we are all together and carry out training for the day. It is here that we do a lot of rappelling, first-aid training, weapons familiarization, small unit tactics, orienteering, customs and courtesies, and other military-minded training. After Lab, we go back to the dining facility for dinner. During the week, groups that eat together are usually smaller simply because not everyone lives on campus. On days when we have ROTC class, we wear our BDU's (battle dress uniform), unless instructed otherwise. This is mainly because the military is a professional organization, so we must look and act professional at all times. Being in uniform constantly reminds us of this. LTC Caruso always tells us that we wear two surnames on our uniforms: our last name and his—U.S. Army. What he is telling us is that we are not only representing ourselves, but everyone who has come before us and who is currently serving, not only in the Army, but all branches of the Armed Forces. We are blessed to have the Scotch Guard as our direct support organization. They hold events for us such as TGIW (Thank God It's Wednesday), laser tag, bowling, army buddy parties, and many other fun events. It gives everyone a chance to relax, have fun, and interact outside of ROTC. Some people go into business, political science, or biology, and then some of us go into ROTC. While we have to obtain a major degree, ROTC becomes our minor. And it's more than that—ROTC is a decision you make for your future; the ability to gain life friends, leadership education, time management, money for college, and a lot of respect from your peers. I know my classmates' first, middle, and last names, their parents' occupations, birthdays, brothers and sisters, and where they are from—all things you should know about your best friends. We are a tight group, and I always know that I can call upon them for anything. That's the type of person, and friendships, the military builds. Contact Rebecca Acosta | LSU
University Relations Related Links |
During the first two years, we have physical training at the Rec Center, 6-7 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. This training involves variations of push-ups, sit-ups, and running. We usually do these in ability groups for maximum improvement. Once a month, we are graded on the Army Physical Fitness Test. While many participate, it's only mandatory for scholarship cadets.
