New Student Orientation
Beginning in 2019, all prospective NROTC students in any program (NROTC Scholarship, College Program, and Preparatory Scholarship) will attend a joint New Student Orientation (NSO) with students from across the country. This NSO will be held at Naval Station Great Lakes, IL, on dates to be determined. All travel will be paid for by the Navy, regardless of program. The training will last approximately two weeks and will teach prospective MIDN the basics in military training, to include drill, physical training, customs and curtsies, and more.
Because of the physical fitness demands of NSO, prospective students must be in good physical shape prior to attending. Preparation and training must begin immediately, as we have historically seen students struggle with physical fitness, which can result in dismissal from the program. AT A MINIMUM, Navy Option students should be able to score, at minimum, a "Good Low" on their Navy Physical Readiness Test which consists of max push-ups in 2:00, plank for time, and 1.5 mile run. Marine Options should be able to score, at minimum, 235 on the Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test, which consists of a max set of pull-ups, Plank for time, and a 3 mile run. Because the run is the final part of both physical tests, expect to run slower during the evaluation than usual. A common mistake students make is only running on a treadmill for preparation; most people run faster on a treadmill. Getting comfortable running outside and pacing yourself is crucial to meeting the physical requirements of NSO.
Students must pass NSO in order to enter the NROTC program as a MIDN in the fall semester. Passing will require students to pass the Physical Fitness Assessment, complete swim qualifications, and demonstrate military bearing and leadership potential throughout the event.