Really, a military school experience? Yes, really! Today’s military schools offer an incredible array of fun and challenging experiences that, are arguably, absent in many other educational venues. True, the organizational structure requires that you demonstrate an elevated approach pertaining to personal accountability, responsibility, and respect for yourself as well as others. However, such structure provides a foundation for growth as faculty, staff, students, and as applicable, parents/guardians enter a partnership of engagement and collaboration.
Peer leadership and followership are incredibly important aspects of the experience. Upon arrival, incoming students are met by current cadets (students) who have given of their time and convenience to promote a positive and caring transition for those who are beginning their military school journey. Character is the essence of leadership, and cadets at today’s military schools are taught to lead, as well as follow, with a servants hear. Accountability is essential, but an authoritative approach to leadership and fellowship does nothing to promote trust, build community, or sustain a culture of respect. Rather, values such as duty, honor, service, and achievement are modeled and reinforced.
Yes, the experience can be fun! A student-centered experiential (hands-on) approach to learning is realized in the classroom, the athletic field, and through various clubs and organizations. Many cadets are provided the opportunity to display their artistic, academic, and leadership skills through participation in regional and national concerts, competitions, and symposiums. For example, the annual military school concert attracts numerous military bands and choirs nationwide. For those with a thirst for science and technology, programs, and clubs specific to STEM challenge the most creative and talented young minds. Moreover, many (most) of the schools provide unique outdoor experiential opportunities which promote confidence, team building, and a sense of self that is difficult to replicate in many educational venues. For example, rappelling, high ropes and low ropes course, and outdoor and wilderness excursions are often part of the learning process.
Of extreme importance is the reality that often students, regardless of the educational venue, will experiences issues specific to their physical, mental, emotional, and social wellness. Therefore, many schools have established and/or escalated resources to address various aspects of physical and mental wellness. To compliment such efforts, cadets are introduced to programs and initiatives which promote awareness and understanding of self and others. Such initiatives may be of particular importance for schools which support an international student population.
Apart from the federal service academics and various four-year colleges and universities, a majority of students in attendance at military schools and colleges will not enter into the profession of arms. However, the structure provided through the military model of education provides a framework for students to continue a life-long journey of growth as citizens (leaders and followers) of character prepared to serve for the betterment of themselves and others.
New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) is a 2023 AIRC Premium Annual Sponsor. To learn more about NMMI, visit https://www.nmmi.edu/.