HOW TO STAND OUT TO A U.S. ARMY RECRUITER
Students interested in pursuing a U.S. Army career and the educators, counselors, and parents guiding them through the recruitment process have an exciting journey ahead. However, just like any career search or search for the perfect “next step” in life, the process can be stressful and intimidating, especially when trying to stand out to a U.S. Army recruiter who is looking for a high set of qualifications.
To help guide the process, here’s a closer look inside the mind of a U.S. Army recruiter:
He or she has their eye out for recruits who embody the seven Army Values: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. Every high school in the country has students already living their lives by these values, whether or not the students have been recognized for it. When you think of those seven values, who comes to mind? Is it the captain of the soccer team? The president of Students Against Destructive Decisions? That student who continually raises their hand to volunteer but somehow manages to maintain that 4.0?
The U.S. Army knows there are students who embody these values, but sometimes students just need a push in the right direction to reach that potential, which is where educators and mentors can make the biggest impact. In order to excel in these areas, it’s critical to encourage students to take care of themselves physically. Studies have shown that exercise, sleeping and eating patterns directly correlate to healthy outcomes. When students neglect these healthy habits, their brain function, body and other aspects of day-to-day life suffer. Recruiters are looking for individuals who know how to take care of themselves, because they know that Army leaders cannot flourish without a strong foundation in healthy habits. For best practices on how to maintain healthy habits, take a look at the U.S. Army Performance Triad, the U.S. Army’s framework on how to maintain physical supremacy, emotional resilience and cognitive dominance. The Performance Triad can be applied to our Nation’s youth and their ability to learn and develop through life – physically, mentally and emotionally.
Because the U.S. Army also seeks students committed to selflessness, it’s crucial that students interested in Army service have a demonstrated track record of going above and beyond in service to others. Strong involvement in schools and communities through sports, clubs, and extracurricular activities sets students apart from other applicants and showcases selflessness, respect for others, dedication and loyalty. Our Nation’s success depends on Soldiers and citizens who understand what it means to serve others.
Finally, U.S. Army recruiters seek leaders who can serve as strong examples and mentors for others, and that means leading by example with good grades and clean disciplinary records. Recruiters see potential in students who meet these standards because U.S. Army leaders must embrace integrity and show a passion for education.
The U.S. Army recruiter’s goals are to find those individuals who encompass the Army values, show a healthy promise for growth, and ultimately have the potential to become America’s next great leaders and role models.
