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Morgan Stromski ’28, who is a dual-degree student studying to receive her B.S. in Security and Defense Policy and an M.A. in Security Studies, is passionate about self-improvement to prepare for the demanding military life that awaits her upon graduation. She discusses how the Army ROTC program is enabling her to reach her full potential. Below, she shares some of her experiences in the Army ROTC program and her time at the University.

“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen.” – Douglas MacArthur

When I was applying to college, I didn’t initially think of joining the University of New Haven’s Army ROTC program. However, after attending an Open House and speaking with some of the cadets in the company, I soon knew that this would be my home. The company atmosphere, which encourages pushing each other to be the best and strengthening ourselves both mentally and physically, drew me in. I view attending college as a way to move past my limits and really step into the image of myself I want the world to see, and Army ROTC helps me do just that.

As every student enters their first year, the prospect of college life can be daunting, especially when considering the added extracurricular events that come with ROTC. Yet, you have a group of other students doing the same thing as you and who are more than willing to lend a hand when needed. The early morning physical training, the cold Friday afternoon Leadership Laboratories, and long field training exercises have created some of the best memories I have of college life because of the great people I share those experiences with. I really feel pushed to strengthen myself when I’m training with the other cadets, and I feel I’m all the better for it.

In the Army ROTC program, I am a member of the Recruiting, Color Guard, and Ranger Challenge Teams. The team I find most beneficial is Ranger Challenge. Ranger Challenge is physically demanding and mentally tough as you compete against other ROTC programs in the Northeast doing obstacle courses, testing your military knowledge, and completing long rucks. This team has taught me to become comfortable with being uncomfortable, which is crucial to really push beyond what I thought was possible for myself. There have been some days when I would like to give up, but I push that voice behind me and keep rucking forward.

After I graduate, I will be commissioned into the United States Army as a Second Lieutenant, hopefully in the Military Intelligence Corps. I believe that both the ROTC program and the University's National Security program are helping me achieve this goal. The professors teaching the curriculum have unmatched experience in their fields and have taught me to think critically and question the "why?". The Army ROTC program teaches me the tactical aspects of military missions, providing me with the tools I need to become a good leader and the confidence to make tough decisions.

The ROTC program has also given me opportunities to apply my skills to real life. This past summer, I participated in U.S. Special Forces Command’s Robin Sage experience, where I used my intelligence and tactical knowledge alongside future U.S. Army Green Berets to conduct practical missions. Without the ROTC program, I would have never been able to be a part of such a cool experience.

I would definitely recommend the Army ROTC program to anyone looking to better themselves. It has helped me in so many ways that I can’t even begin to list them. I'm eager to see what challenges come my way and how I'll overcome them. One day, I look forward to reflecting on the experiences I have shared with the ROTC program and taking pride in how they've shaped me into the person I will become.

THIS WE’LL DEFEND! HOAH!