As she prepares to attend Yale University in the fall, senior Katherine May trains to join the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) to fulfill her dream of pursuing “something bigger.”  More than 1,700 United States (US) colleges and institutions provide NROTC, which instructs young adults to become military officers, according to todaysmilitary.com.  Katherine spoke about her choice to join the NROTC and the preparation she must undergo before the fall. 

Katherine decided to enter the NROTC when she visited the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.  To receive acceptance into the program, she had to apply for the ROTC scholarship, which consisted of a fitness test, recommendations, and an interview.  Last summer, she participated in an Army camp at the United States Military Academy West Point.  She reflected on the experience and the impact it had on her decision to participate in NROTC. 

“Last summer, I participated in West Point’s Summer Leadership Experience, during which I spent a week with a squad of rising high school seniors, attending classes, participating in physical training, and doing team bonding,” Katherine said.  “I experienced firsthand how critical communication within teams is and how quickly relationships with one’s teammates can form when put in high-stakes situations.  I loved my week at West Point, and it clarified to me that I wanted to serve in the military.”

During her time at Sacred Heart Greenwich, Katherine was captain of the cross country team and is the Class of 2023’s Valedictorian.  Katherine hopes to continue running in college by joining Yale University’s running club.  She will also be majoring in Economics and Math. 

This summer, Katherine will participate in a structured military training for Midshipmen Candidates called New Student Indoctrination (NSI) located at the Quarterdeck of the Navy, Recruit Training Command (RTC) in Great Lakes, Illinois, according to netc.navy.mil.  Katherine said that over the intense two and a half weeks, her mental and physical strength will be tested through intensive physical training, a lack of sleep, and constant correction from higher-ranked leaders.  She is most nervous about not having contact with her friends and family as she undergoes this challenge.

Katherine will graduate from Yale University as a US Navy Officer and is required to serve for five years.  She looks forward to beginning her journey toward this remarkable achievement. 

“I want to be a Naval Officer to become a mission-focused leader of character, prepared to use academic and leadership skills to help implement the US diplomatic and strategic objectives for the Navy and have a positive impact on the world by protecting US interests and serving my country,” Katherine said.  “I think my time in ROTC and the Navy will help me become a more confident leader, which will equip me with the skills I need throughout my life.”

Featured Image by Jacqueline Franco ’23