Michael Giordano, a Penn College construction management student and former ROTC Bald Eagle Battalion commander, takes listeners on a “tour” of his experiences and benefits in “Army ROTC,” the latest episode in the Tomorrow Makers podcast series.
If anyone has questions about the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, Giordano has the answers! The fascinating discussion explores the intersection of leadership, discipline and hands-on learning. Giordano talks through his decision to pursue ROTC, the challenges and rewards of balancing military training with academics, and how his experiences in both fields are shaping him into a future leader. He also highlights the unique perks of being in ROTC at Penn College, including generous scholarships, genuine camaraderie with fellow cadets (they also enjoy an ROTC House for their headquarters) and lifelong military benefits.
“Having that military background for any career path is … a super beneficial thing to have,” he said. “A lot of companies will see that, and especially if you are an officer in the military, that screams: leadership qualities … that you can work well with others. So, it's a huge resume booster. Now, I'm not doing it just for the resume booster. There's a lot of other reasons.”
Tune in to hear those reasons, Giordano’s story and how he leads with curiosity and purpose in the field and in the classroom. He’s also delivering sage advice for teens staring down four years of college plus additional years in the military: “It goes quick. It goes really quick. … Maybe I'm a little biased, but I would personally argue that having that experience, having that career builder of eight years, even if it's 10 years, I think that's worth it … for your family, for serving your country … for your career. … It's not that long.”
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