ROTC Questions

[Lions2012]

Hey All,

I was accepted to Columbia University in December of 2007 and will be a freshman in the fall of 2008. My interest in the Marines began to develop about a year and a half ago. I've encountered a gargantuan amount of resistance to my interest along the way, however, after discussing it seriously, several times, with my trusted friends and my older Brother (who works for Uncle Sam) I've decided that Marine Corps OC in college is the way to go.

So,

Has anyone had experience with the Marine OC program in college? And, upon completion, what exactly would happen to me? Would I serve with a line company? When (or if) do I pick an MOS?

Any help is appreciated,

-SL

[GySgtRet]

AND FILL IN YOUR PROFILE

[Lions2012]

Sorry. I updated my profile.

[GySgtRet]

Thank you for updating your profile. I am not sure if your talking about OCS (Officer Candidate School) or not. I will assume that is what you are asking. Before you go to Columbia University you can check out the options with the OSO (Officer Selection Officer). Even in the officer's corps you are placed where you are needed, the needs of the Marine Corps. Your major will help determine somewhat of what you will be able to be selected for. Since you are right here in Virginia you may be able to find an OSO fairly closely to you.

Congratulations on being accepted into Columbia University.

Good luck. I hope I helped you in some way.

[ammermda]

As the GySgt told you, your first step is to contact an OSO. There are several programs/contracts available, and your OSO will be able to provide you more information.

That said, it sounds like you would be a candidate for the Platoon Leaders Course (PLC). What follows is the BASIC sequence of the officer training pipe-line.

PLC: this program splits OCS into two six-week sessions during the summer. Upon completion of your degree, you are commissioned a 2dLt in the USMCR.

After commissioning, you will attend The Basic School (TBS) for no less than six months. All Marine officers are given instruction in leadership and basic infantry tactics. After all, every Marine a rifleman, so every Marine officer a Platoon Commander.

Your degree will only help you so much towards securing a particular MOS. MOS assignments are based on your performance at TBS. This includes leadership billets, academic tests, and physical fitness.

After TBS, you will go to MOS school, wich can vary in length. Finally, you will report to your unit in the Fleet where you will be expected to supervise, challenge, motivate and LEAD our young Marines.

I hope this helps a little. Again, contact an OSO for more details. Good luck.