Entering his sophomore year at the University of Oklahoma, Cadet Christian Cantu completed his first year of ROTC and is looking forward to getting his second year started.
Originally from Nebraska, Cantu always wanted to serve in the military and having the opportunity to finish his degree while getting a career in the U.S. Army started was the perfect fit.
“I decided to join ROTC because I have always wanted to serve for the longest time and I felt this was the perfect moment to do so. I get the chance to get a college degree as well as become an officer in the world’s greatest fighting force, the United States Army,” said Cantu.
Being part of the ROTC program at the University of Oklahoma has many advantages for the cadets. Cantu points at the number of friends he has made and the atmosphere surrounding the battalion.
“I have enjoyed the camaraderie and lifelong friendships I have gained in the program since joining. The OU battalion is like a big family, and everyone is working towards the same goal. It is also very competitive, which I love,” said Cantu. “Some activities I have been involved in while being in ROTC are being on the color guard to present the flags during football games, being able to experience RIP week which is for the Ranger detachment in our battalion, being able to go through Air Assault training led by some of the cadre here at the OU battalion and being able to help with raising money during such events like a 5k.”
Cantu plans to make the military a career upon graduating from the University of Oklahoma.
“I would like to become an engineering officer where I could possibly lead a platoon to build needed passageways or even blow stuff up to get it out of the way,” said Cantu.
Cantu said anyone wanting to join the ROTC program should consider a few things before making that commitment.
“Some advice I would give to another student debating on joining ROTC is to be mentally and physically ready. You do physical training (PT) at least three times a week with PT tests sometimes. Mentally be ready for how much you are going to learn so that you can be the best leader you can be once you graduate. Time management is going to be one of the biggest factors for when you join as lots of things maybe thrown your way, but just handle it in the best fashion that you can. Also, most importantly, don’t give up and work at everything you do because it will pay off in the long run,” said Cantu. “Some requirements that you need to stay in ROTC at OU are to maintain a good GPA, pass the height and weight portion, be up to the passing medical standard, complete a basic course by your freshman year so that means going to basic training or a full year of class, go to advanced camp your junior summer, and graduate with a degree from the University of Oklahoma.”
