Joel Woodruff
Current Class: Senior
Graduation Date: April 2010
Major: Exercise Science
Minor(s): Chemistry, Military Science
Hometown: Logan, Utah
Other Interests: Running, Mountain Biking, Road Biking, everything else outdoors
On Choosing to Join Army ROTC
My choice to join the Army was influenced by several things. My father, grandfather, and several uncles all served in the military. I felt it my duty to continue the legacy. I didn't have any real outside influences. As a matter of fact my dad tried to talk me out of it. I decided, however, the Army was the way to go. After all, I live in a free country where I can do what I want with my life all because of those people that defend and protect the rights I cherish. The idea of going to college for free was kind of enticing as well. Free college, plus money every month? Sign me up. I've found that the trade off for a free education is very minute. I actually look forward to the many activities the Army ROTC throws at you. I find it a really good deal.
On Army school opportunities (internships, CTLT, Airborne, Air Assault, etc.)
One of the great advantages the Military offers to cadets is a wide array of extracurricular activities. Every cadet has the opportunity to participate in countless extra career building programs some of which go far beyond just military training. From summer internships in every area of studies to real life specialized military training. Cadets are chosen for study abroad programs, language training, special military and governmental work related studies, leadership opportunities, and military schools like Paratroop training, and air assault school. None of which the cadet pays anything. I myself have taken advantage of the summer opportunities to receive specialized military training with soldiers in active duty army all as a cadet. I had an all-expense-paid trip to Fort Benning Georgia to jump out of Airplanes for 3 weeks. Another summer I spent 2 weeks in Fort Knox Kentucky learning how to repel out of helicopters and participate in Helicopter Sling load operations (basically tying heavy equipment to the bottom of big helicopters). Last summer I went to West Point Military academy in New York to compete in an international Intra-military academy competition. The things I've learned and the experiences I've had are numerous and invaluable.
On what friends and/or family think of your participation in ROTC
My Family loves it. My parents are proud to have a son serving the Country, and my dad, retired Army, sure is glad I decided on the Army ROTC. They love going to see me compete in military competitions and are a huge support. As far as my college life, I used to think that maybe being in the military would cause some social strains in college but all that isn't true. Most people just don't understand enough about the military and are apprehensive towards military service. When someone say their in the Army most people think, deployments, Iraq, moving around a lot. Most people don't realize the benefits involved. After I explain to people how things really work, they agree that the Military has a lot to offer. My wife loves that I'm serving my country and is overly happy that the military pays for all of my education, to include graduate school should I decide to go that route. We find the job security and added benefits very beneficial.
