Two New Perspectives

We have two new cadets this semester; Cadet Kutz and Cadet Wallock, and we have asked them some questions about their perspective on AFROTC thus far. 

Why did you join?

C/4C Kutz: My cousin Aaron is in ROTC and I’ve always heard him talk really highly about it. Also, I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself. I’ve always been interested in aviation which influenced my choice of AFROTC.

C/4C Wallock: My mother and father were both in the Air Force. My mom was a Medical Lab Technician and my dad was a Linguist/Cardiopulmonary Technician. I was born on Eglin AFB so I was surrounded by Air Force life growing up and was inspired by my parents and military background. I was driven by the desire to serve my country and to see self improvement.

How are you liking it?

C/4C Kutz: I like it! Everyone was super welcoming and very helpful and continues to be. I really feel like I can go to anyone with my questions/concerns. Its a really close knit group, especially in the IMT squadron. 

C/4C Wallock: I love it! Immediately from day one I felt really integrated and I felt like a part of the AFROTC family. It was crazy how much support I was given from day one. Everyone was super understanding, patient, and excited to have me here.

What surprised you most about AFROTC? (good and bad)

C/4C Kutz: Definitely how tight knit the detachment is. Getting up at 5:30 in the morning kind-of drains you. I was expecting it to be intense, and it sure is, so I guess that wasn’t unexpected. The trainers throw you into the mix right away, giving you unexpected leadership roles and the opportunity to learn from failure.

C/4C Wallock: I was very surprised by the intensity. I didn’t really know what to expect when I came in so when I was handed opportunity after opportunity I didn’t really know to handle them all. With that being said, I was taken aback by the kindness and and helpfulness of everyone in the detachment. I assumed it was just because it was my first week in ROTC, and everyone wanted me to feel welcomed, but even after a month I feel just as welcome as the first day I stepped into the armory.

What do you like most about AFROTC?

C/4C Kutz: I like that I can always have a group of people to depend on whether I need help academically or someone to work out with on off days.

C/4C Wallock: I love the family aspect of it all. I know that if I ever run into a problem, I can turn to anyone in my wing for help.

Have you seen self-improvement yet?

C/4C Kutz: Definitely; I was always a shy timid guy...still am, but being thrown into leadership roles has really helped me gain confidence in myself and my abilities.

C/4C Wallock: I’ve really surprised myself so far this semester. I’ve taken on leadership positions that I didn’t know I would be able to. My self confidence has increased tremendously and I’m not as apprehensive to delve into new opportunities.