Shaunna George, a cadet in the Ole Miss Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, found her calling for service through the University of Mississippi’s ROTC program. George, a Grenada, Miss. native, joined UM’s ROTC program to strengthen her knowledge of military science while earning a college education.
The senior biological sciences major enrolled in the Army after graduating high school. George served as a 68W combat medic for nearly a year. While on holiday block leave, her recruiter recommended she join Ole Miss ROTC. She was drawn to the program for its prestige, its close proximity to her home and the impressive program for her major.
A day in the life of an ROTC cadet is far more disciplined than the typical college student. George wakes up at 5 a.m. before physical training on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and “rooks” on Thursdays. Cadets must pass rigorous fitness tests each semester to meet military regulations.
“We’re really embracing being stuck together,” George said. “When you’re in college and want to go out to the Square or you have Greek activities, going to ROTC you have a family who gets it.”
Physical training activities range from three-mile runs on Oxford’s Whirlpool Trails to upper body workouts at the South Campus Recreation Center. A “rook” is an exercise involving running a target 15-minute mile carrying bags weighing at least 35 lbs. George grew accustomed to carrying a heavy medic bag during her prior service, making ROTC workouts an easy adjustment.
However, George expressed that the ROTC lifestyle presents more than just physical challenges.
ROTC leadership has enriched George’s involvement in the program. In the fall semester, the cadet served as battalion executive officer, overseeing cadets in staff positions. Now, George stays involved in ROTC leadership as the community service cadet to help fellow students meet their required service hours.
While ROTC life has its difficulties, George said she would not change anything about her four years in the program. George credited Ole Miss ROTC for discovering her passion for service.
“I always knew I wanted to do service. My sole purpose is service to people. My oldest brother is in the Air Force and inspired my military side. Being a medic, when someone is hurt they come to you. If you’re successful in treating them, they start calling you ‘doc.’ That’s when you know you’ve done somebody good,” George said.
Once she graduates in May, George plans to complete a master’s degree in biological sciences at UM before enrolling in a physician’s assistant program. This summer, she will begin drilling monthly with a new unit in Crystal Springs, Miss. as a platoon leader.
Outside of the ROTC program, George is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
George said Ole Miss ROTC has taught her empathy, strength, discipline and patience. Even with her prior service, George felt ROTC allowed her to learn and better herself as a mentor to younger cadets. She lauded the ROTC’s supportive staff and encourages those interested in ROTC to pursue their passions.
“Do it,” George said. “Come to this program as a sponge. If you think the army may be for you, start investing in the program. Let others know your strengths and weaknesses. This program will take your weaknesses, shape them and make them strengths.”
