While many high school graduates head off to Universities or immediately join the military, 2013 senior Sean Rusaw decided to take a different a path. Rusaw joined the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), a navy reserve in Ann Arbor, where he now attends school at the University of Michigan while performing tasks for the Marines. Upon finishing school he will then be stationed and begin his service.

“I wanted the opportunity to lead other marines which is why I joined the particular program I’m in,” Rusaw said. “The history and the esprit de corps that connects past present and future marines is also something that drives many people to serve, myself included.”

Although no FHS grad has went this route, Rusaw thought it was a perfect fit and is happy with his choice.

“I really had no idea what to expect from the program since I am almost positive I am the first person from Fenton to do ROTC.,” Rusaw said. “All I really had to base my expectations on was movies and videos, which don’t always represent exactly how things go.”

Rusaw was unsure what to expect; however it was never a question of whether or not he wanted to serve his country. As a thanks for his service and commitment Rusaw received an 180,000 dollar scholarship from the Marine Corps.

“I have always known that I wanted to serve,” Rusaw said. “I’ve always had an active lifestyle and wanted a job that would accommodate that. The marines will offer me the best opportunity to keep that active lifestyle in the military. Many people in my family have served as well and that was more motivation to continue that tradition.”

On November 3, in attempt to learn more about Rusaw’s future in the Marines and honor those who serve, Rusaw and his girlfriend, senior Lili Connor attended the Military Ball in Las Vegas.

“It started with a video interviewing men about the Marine Corps. and what it meant to them,” Connor said. “They then honored a guest of honor, cut the cake and gave a piece to the youngest and oldest man in the battalion. Once the ceremony was finished we ate and danced. The Military Ball was a great experience. It gave me a chance to learn all the ranks on the uniforms and I got to meet some amazing men. “