Obtain an education by serving your country and community through the National Guard, Army Reserves, or Active Duty. The Green Mountain Battalion encompasses students from the following schools: Castleton University, UVM, Champlain College, Saint Michael's College, Middlebury College, Northern Vermont University, and the State University of New York at Plattsburgh. For those desiring to stay in the local area, options exist to serve in the National Guard (of any state) or Reserves while working in the local area. There are numerous Defense Industries in the immediate area such as General Dynamics, Revision Eye Wear, and Liquid Measurements, to name a few.
ROTC scholarships are awarded based on merit to those students who are academically, physically, and medically qualified designed to lessen the financial burden of higher education to those who qualify. Scholarships can range from full four-year scholarships, three-year scholarships, and two-year scholarships. There are a variety of ways to earn scholarships; you are encouraged to visit the following webpages and to visit or contact the Castleton University ROTC Office in Woodruff Hall.
National Scholarship Applicants should visit the ROTC website to start your application process as early as possible. Applicants can apply during their junior or senior years of high school. Army ROTC four-year scholarships and three-year Advanced Designee Scholarships are available at Castleton University, The University of Vermont, and all its partner colleges. Applications must be complete no later than Jan. 15.
The Simultaneous Membership Program allows you to attend Army ROTC at Castleton University while serving in the U.S. Army Reserve or Army National Guard at the same time. It gives you an opportunity for additional training and invaluable experience while serving as Officers trainees in your unit and even being put into leadership positions while earning your college degree. You can earn Reserve/Guard pay and benefits in addition to your Army ROTC allowances.
While serving in the National Guard as an SMP Cadet, you will earn Sergeant (E5) monthly drill and a monthly stipend from ROTC. Sophomores receive $350/month, Juniors receive $450/month, and Seniors receive $500/month. As a Cadet serving with the National Guard or Army Reserve you are also eligible to receive the Montgomery GI Bill (Approximately $288/month) and a $350 "Kicker." In addition, you may also eligible for the National Guard Student Loan Repayment Program, which can pay back up to $50,000 of your student loans.
Cadets in the Simultaneous Membership Program still have the option to serve as an Officer on Active Duty, but SMP Cadets who commission in the National Guard or Army Reserve may be guaranteed the branch assignment and unit of their choice.
For more information contact SGT Keith Hunt at (802) 779-2827.