As a first year cadet, I haven't spent much time at Cary High School or in the NJROTC program. I don't have all the shiny medals and thousands of ribbons decorating my uniform. But even in this short time, I have already learned so much. I notice a difference in my posture, a quickly rising level of fitness, and I even catch myself giving thanks without thinking about it. The program had the unexpected benefit of keeping me held accountable and dedicated to school. I never used to enjoy coming to school, but I find myself spending much of my day there with all of the field trips, club meetings, and shore patrols where I get to sharpen my skills and learn more about the Navy and the military. I joined this program to help me work towards my goal of joining the U.S. Army and to become a better person. The NJROTC program at Cary has made a daunting switch much easier for a kid who wouldn't get up in the morning.