Life in the Battalion

The battalion dressed in workout clothes and running laps on a track.

Weekly Schedule

At the start of each week, the midshipman battalion operations officer sends out the plan of the week (POW), outlining the week's upcoming events and activities. A typical week looks like:

  • Close order drill sessions on Monday and Wednesday, led by an assistant marine officer instructor to instill discipline, precisions, and teamwork
  • Physical training sessions on Tuesday and Thursday morning, designed to enhance endurance, strength and overall fitness

Students pursuing the marine option, as well as select Navy Midshipmen will do additional physical training on Friday. This supplementary training further refines their physical and tactical, ensuring they meet the rigorous standards expected of Marine Corps Officers.

A group of students listening to a lecture.

NROTC Training Program

Academics

Emphasis on Academic Excellence

Midshipmen actively participate in naval science classes covering a wide spectrum of topics including tactics, strategies, ship engineering, and ethical leadership. Most of the classes are accredited by the University and contribute to your academic course load and GPA.

Wednesday afternoons are reserved for our Naval Science lab, a vital component of our training curriculum. During these sessions, the entire battalion convenes to delve into additional training encompassing presentations, guest speaker lectures, public speaking training, and hands-on leadership experiences. This collaborative learning environment fosters critical skills and knowledge essential for future military leaders.

Midshipman lining up in formation in a large room.

Time Management

Juggling Classes

with NROTC Responsibilities

Balancing the demands of NROTC with full-time college coursework requires dedication and effective time management. As mentioned, our NROTC students are not only committed to their military training and participation in battalion events but are also full-time college students. This means that they juggle rigorous academic schedules with early morning NROTC activities, often starting as early as 5:30 to 6:30 on most weekday mornings.

It's essential for our midshipmen to excel both academically and in their military training. Therefore, they diligently plan their days, ensuring they allocate sufficient time for studying, attending Naval Science classes, and participating in battalion activities. This balancing act instills valuable time-management skills, resilience, and a strong work ethic, preparing our future military leaders for the challenges they will encounter in their careers.

A midshipman climbing a rope while his NROTC class watches from below.

The First Year

4/C Year

Challenges and Growth

The first year, often referred to as the 4/C year in NROTC, is a pivotal period marked by unique challenges and significant growth. As the most junior members of the battalion, 4/C midshipmen embark on a journey that demands quick adaptation and a strong sense of responsibility. With the weight of numerous eyes upon them, they must learn the ropes swiftly, both in terms of military discipline and academic rigor. This year serves as a crucible for character development, resilience, and leadership potential.

Despite the formidable challenges, it is during the 4/C year that our midshipmen forge enduring bonds with their peers and mentors, setting a strong foundation for their future roles as leaders in the NROTC program and beyond.

Major Semester Events

Throughout the semester, our battalion actively participates in a range of significant events that contribute to our camaraderie and military spirit. Here's a glimpse into some of the notable events that define our fall semester:

  • The battalion marching in formation in a gym.

    Military Excellence Competition

    During the fall, our dedicated drill teams invest months of preparation, honing their skills in anticipation of Cornell University's Military Excellence Competition. While not everyone is part of a drill team, our entire unit participates in some way, traveling together to offer support and cheers during both the drill and physical competitions. This collective spirit underscores the strong bonds within our unit.

  • The battalion in Veterans Memorial Park.

    Cadence Run

    On Veterans Day, we join forces with the Army and Air Force Units for a memorable cadence run. As a united front, all three ROTC units, accompanied by a police escort, traverse the streets of Rochester, chanting military cadences. This run serves as a heartfelt tribute to the dedication and sacrifices of the veterans who have served and protected the United States.

  • A group of midshipman engaging in a tug of war.

    Warrior Day

    Warrior Day offers an exciting opportunity for friendly competition and camaraderie with the Army and Air Force Units. We engage in various sports competitions, fostering new friendships and challenging our skills as we compete with other ROTC battalions.

  • Three midshipman dressed as Crayola Crayons.

    Dining In

    As the fall semester draws to a close, we come together for a special event known as "Dining In." This occasion provides a well-deserved break, allowing us to relax and savor a delightful and entertaining dinner as a battalion. Throughout the evening, Midshipmen and staff members are given the chance to "fine" or humorously roast each other, reflecting on any discrepancies from the past semester. Dining In is an enjoyable and light-hearted affair, filled with laughter and camaraderie.

These events represent just a glimpse of the vibrant and engaging activities that shape our battalion during the fall semester. The spring semester holds its own set of exciting opportunities, and there are even more unique experiences that we haven't covered here. If you're curious and eager to learn more about our battalion's dynamic activities, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We welcome the chance to share our experiences and traditions with you!

Ready to join us?

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Students interested in joing the NROTC can either apply to the scholarship program, or to the non-scholarship program.