Oklahoma State University junior Trace Rouser has always been drawn to challenges, and he found exactly that in the university’s Army ROTC program. Rouser is balancing a demanding academic load with the responsibilities of cadet life as he prepares for a future in military aviation. “I’m a junior at OSU pursuing a degree in Aerospace Administration and Operations with a concentration in Management and Security and a minor in Military science.”
Rouser said the competitive nature of the Cowboy Battalion is one of the things that keeps him motivated. “I really enjoy the competitive atmosphere in OSU’s ROTC program. Everyone works to better themselves and their class, whether that be physically by working out or mentally by studying. There’s that feeling of always wanting to be better and there are lots of opportunities to challenge yourself.” That environment, he said, pushes cadets to raise their standards in every area, from fitness to academics and leadership.
Much of that drive ties back to Rouser’s long-term goal of serving as an Army aviator. “My ultimate goal coming out of this program is to commission as an Army aviator, which is a 10-year commitment. After those 10 years are up, I can reassess whether I want to continue as an Army officer or take my skills to the civilian market.” With that future in mind, he embraces the extra training, and time demands that come with ROTC.
Beyond the classroom and early morning physical training, Rouser has taken advantage of the program’s unique opportunities. “There are many activities that ROTC provides. I have competed on OSU’s team for the Norwegian Foot March and Army vs. Air Force ROTC flag football. Our team completed the march and won that football game. I also sit as the Military Science clubs Vice President and help raise funds for the ROTC to do unique training opportunities. One of these opportunities was to fly on a CH-47 Chinook to a field training exercise.” Those experiences, he said, help build both confidence and camaraderie.
Rouser credits ROTC with sharpening the leadership tools he will need as an officer. “ROTC has done a great job teaching me leadership skills, which really boils down to communication and problem solving. The more I go through the program, I build more confidence in myself and trust in my peers.” Watching his fellow cadets succeed also inspires him. “I find that the more I get to know my peers, the more I look up to them. They do great things wherever they go. They excel physically and build up the people around them. They win in Army competitions and complete Army schools like Airborne, Air Assault, and Mountain Warfare.”
For students considering ROTC, Rouser encourages leaning into difficult opportunities. “My advice is to not pass up on opportunities that you might regret missing out on. Do those things that are difficult and that the average person wouldn’t do. Nine times out of ten you will come out of those situations learning and accomplishing something that no one else has. Not to mention that you will also form a tight-knit group of friends from it.” When he does get downtime, Rouser said he keeps things simple. “I like to fill my days with activities like working out, camping and hiking, and spending time with my friends and family.”
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