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Day in the Life of a Stanford Army ROTC Cadet

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Physical Training and Daily Schedule 

Every Tuesday morning, when the 4:30 am alarm goes off, the tempting snooze button appears on the screen, but the day begins at that exact moment. Mentally preparing myself for the day, I get out of bed and do my absolute best to be quiet, as I do not want to wake up my roommate. Donning my Army Combat Uniform (ACUs) and meticulously packing my backpack, I make every effort to shake off the grogginess. Once satisfied that nothing essential has been overlooked, I step out the door.

For the Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (AROTC) cadets at Stanford, a significant portion of our training unfolds at Santa Clara University (SCU), our host institution. Our battalion comprises cadets from various local schools, including San Jose State University (SJSU), Santa Clara University (SCU), University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC), and Stanford University.

Although it is still dark out, the good vibes from my fellow cadets bring so much energy to the start of the day. The other Stanford cadets and I begin the 20-minute drive to SCU for accountability at 0600. Due to our rigorous training schedule, we commute to SCU on Tuesdays and Thursdays to maximize our team training opportunities.

As of late (March 2024), we have been meeting a little earlier than the rest of the battalion because all of the Stanford cadets are on the Ranger Challenge Team. The Ranger Challenge team is a team composed of cadets who want to train a little harder and compete against other battalions in many events. Being a part of the Ranger Challenge Team has allowed me to build camaraderie with cadets who also want to push themselves physically and mentally. 

Typically, our workout sessions kick off with formations and Physical Readiness Training (PRT), serving as a warm-up to get our bodies primed for the day ahead. Following this initial phase lasting around 5-10 minutes, the Physical Instructor (PI) lays out the workout plan for the day. Each session presents a unique training agenda, and today's focus was on enhancing our cardiovascular fitness. The workout entailed a 40-minute run around the field at SCU, performed in full uniform and boots. I find these types of workouts particularly invigorating as they pose significant mental challenges that demand resilience and determination. Upon completing the run, we engage in cool-down exercises before convening for an After-Action Report (AAR), where we debrief on the workout's objectives and discuss areas for improvement. For me, PT sessions stand out as the highlight of the day. Not only do they provide an opportunity to bond with fellow cadets, but they also serve as a source of motivation and learning. It's during these sessions that we support each other through the early mornings and rigorous workouts, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

After PT, we head straight to our Ranger Challenge Class that starts at 0700-0800. These classes were implemented for the team to learn and practice for some of the skills needed for the Ranger Challenge competition. 

Today, we are rehearsing the One Rope Bridge Challenge. The One Rope Bridge Challenge is an activity where a group has to cross a gap using only one rope, working together to build a stable bridge with the rope and other materials. It teaches teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills as we figure out how to safely get everyone across. Our main challenge today was to do it efficiently. We ran through the exercise multiple times as a group, refining our techniques along the way. At the end of the hour, we cleaned up and discussed what we could improve, but overall, we were satisfied with the progress we made in class.

MILS Classes

At this time, we drive over to Varsi Hall for our lectures and labs, where each class year has its designated group to enhance military knowledge under the guidance of the cadre. I'm part of the MS II class, tailored for sophomores, led by CPT Strain. My situation differs from most sophomores since this is my inaugural year in the program, thus I have less experience. However, my fellow cadets regularly lend a hand and offer encouragement as we delve into new subjects.

Today, our class starts at 0900; this usually gives us some time to talk to each other and check-in on how everyone is doing. As the Captain enters, we snap to attention (the proper way to address cadre when they enter the room). Once settled, we start with an exercise: jotting down three positive aspects of our week, fostering gratitude and camaraderie. After sharing, we delve into the day's topic: OPORDs (Operation Orders).

OPORDs are a fundamental tool used by the military to plan and execute missions. These orders provide detailed instructions and guidance to units on how to accomplish specific objectives. As a class, our task is to dissect the provided OPORD and streamline it into terms suitable for distribution among our squad members. Typically, we spend the next hour refining our strategies, discussing, and addressing any queries that arise. This topic is frequently discussed in our class because, as we transition to MS III cadets next year, we'll take on leadership roles where understanding OPORDs is crucial.

Life Outside of AROTC

We return to campus around 1030, heading straight to our dorms to prepare for the day ahead. I swiftly change into civilian attire and pack my bag with all the necessary school supplies, knowing I won't be back until much later due to a packed schedule.

With a mix of anticipation and trepidation, I make my way to my 10:30am Program in Writing and Rhetoric (PWR) class, hoping I'm adequately prepared for my midterm presentation. Thoughts race through my mind, considering the looming two-hour chemistry lab that comes after PWR, followed by a series of quick meetings with the organizations I'm involved in, and culminating in a three-hour shift at the Stanford Bookstore. Sometimes it seems never-ending, but the sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering a busy schedule makes it all worthwhile.

My days are consistently full due to the rigorous academic path I've chosen. Pursuing a Biology (pre-med) major means tackling Biology Core classes without a break from homework. Yet, my involvement in various organizations not only fosters a sense of community among like-minded individuals but also provides opportunities to organize events for everyone. ROTC is another added plus because I do find joy in the structure and purpose it brings

Much of my drive stems from my desire for excellence and wanting to push boundaries. Coming to Stanford, I never imagined being part of a program that challenges me to surpass my limits and connect with inspiring individuals who serve or have served in the military. The opportunity to pursue my education at Stanford while also serving in the U.S. Army has been a huge dream of mine because I want to help people in all the ways that I can. ROTC has allowed me to realize these aspirations fully.

Following a packed day of classes, meetings, and work, I carve out a precious half-hour in my dorm to unwind before heading to the gym. While some might think my day should conclude there, the gym has always been a place where I can forget about the world and nurture my physical well-being. Most days, I dedicate anywhere from one to two hours to my workout routine, viewing it not just as exercise, but as essential self-care.

After wrapping up at the gym, I return to my dorm to shower, catch up on homework, and prepare for bed, gearing up to take on the challenges of the next day. I wouldn't have it any other way because, by the end of each night, I feel a profound sense of accomplishment. Joining the Army ROTC program has given my life purpose and instilled a valuable sense of discipline. My goals extend beyond just serving as a U.S. Army officer; I strive to become an exemplary leader, dedicated to making a positive impact both within the military and beyond.

Written By

TaSheena L. Thompson

MS II, Army ROTC

Bronco Battalion, Santa Clara University

CDT Thompson is from Twinlakes, NM, and studies Biology with a concentration in neurosciences on the pre-med track, along with a minor in Native American studies at Stanford University. She will graduate from Stanford in 2026 and hopes to be commissioned into the Army Medical Corps as a 61Z, Neurosurgeon.