WKU News

This summer, members of WKU Army ROTC’s Hilltopper Battalion prepared to lead from the top at the annual Cadet Summer Training (CST) at Fort Knox, Kentucky. 

For contracted MSIII cadets aiming to commission as a 2nd lieutenant upon graduation, successfully completing the Advanced Camp at CST is a requirement. It is a rigorous experience designed to challenge cadets and push them to their limits.

“It’s meant to mold you into a better leader and develop mental and physical strength while under lots of pressure,” said senior Jacob Sutherland, who is majoring in nursing. 

“CST taught me a lot about my leadership style and how I perform tasks like shooting, field tactics, land navigation, and ruck marches on very little sleep. It also exposed specific things I need to improve on as a future leader in the United States military,” he added.

It’s also an opportunity to connect with cadets from around the country. For senior Kierigan McEvoy, that camaraderie was a crucial part of her experience at CST. 

“I think meeting people and learning from them is one of the best ways to build relationships and help you grow as a person. I was most excited for the rappel tower and most nervous for our marksmanship qualification test, but was able to overcome that because I had a great platoon and squad,” shared McEvoy. 

“I have learned that the Army’s motto “mission first, people always” is a testament to the culture I have experienced here. Everyone I encountered while at camp was highly motivated and wanted to achieve our mission goals, but they also were very encouraging of the battle buddies to their left and right,” she added.

Cadets can also join additional training or professional development events over the summer after CST, further honing their skills and forging new connections. 

“Thanks to CST, I was able to get to meet a lot of cadets who also share follow on training with me. Because of this we were able to build connections, help each other prepare for our follow on training and study together,” said McEvoy.

Reflecting on the experience, both Hilltoppers highlighted the benefits of attending CST. 

“I can already tell that it has made me a more mentally tough individual and made me more versatile in many ways,” noted Sutherland. 

“Everyone dreads going to CST because they feel like they are not prepared, but trust me you are more prepared than you know. Just believe in yourself and everything else will fall into place,” shared McEvoy.

For Hilltoppers interested in pursuing ROTC in college, both Sutherland and McEvoy highlighted the value of hard work and perseverance.

“Hard work beats talent any day and no one wants a battle buddy who isn’t willing to put in the work, especially when things are tough. No one can make you feel like you are enough except you, so work hard and be proud of your hard work,” shared McEvoy.  

“ROTC is a program that represents the quote “you get out what you put in” very well. Figure out your reasons for joining and make sure you have the proper motivation to stick with it. It will be worth it,” noted Sutherland. 

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Learn more about WKU Army ROTC and the Military Science program at https://www.wku.edu/rotc/ 

For additional information, contact Mr. Brandon Smith at army.rotc@wku.edu or 270-745-6054. 

Photos provided by Jacob Sutherland (top) and Kierigan McEvoy (bottom).