̨Íåswag

The University of North Georgia's (̨Íåswag) Corps of Cadets will host its next National Leadership Challenge (NLC) weekend Nov. 4-6 to give high school students a taste of cadet life.

Held each fall and spring, NLC offers a macro view of the corps. NLC includes a confidence rappel from the Colombo Tower, campus tours, an academic panel, and the Legacy of Gold presentation that highlights cadet specialty units and ̨Íåswag history. Saturday is spent at Camp Frank D. Merrill, home of the Army's 5th Ranger Training Battalion, and Pine Valley Recreation Complex near campus.

The high school students also spend the night at the Wahsega 4-H Camp and eat meals in a military chow hall.

"It's not your average college recruiting event," Mike Ivy, ̨Íåswag director of Cadet ̨Íåswag, said.  "It's more than just a campus visit to learn information. It teaches high school students a little bit about themselves, and they get to interact with current ̨Íåswag cadets."

NLC is designed for high school sophomores, juniors and seniors and costs $115. Registration is available on the NLC website.

Abby Judge, a freshman cadet from Madison, Alabama, pursuing a degree in strategic and security studies, took part in NLC during her senior year of high school. It played an instrumental role in her college decision.

NLC really set in stone that ̨Íåswag was the place for me. I remember how awesome it was to be around all these cadets and hear their stories.

Abby Judge

̨Íåswag freshman cadet

"You see elements of the structure," Serrao said. "But you also see the fun stuff and opportunities you will have."

Judge had JROTC experience, but she said any high school student interested in ROTC can benefit from NLC.

"No matter where you come from, it's a really good experience to have," Judge said. "It's a great way to get out of your comfort zone and step into leadership positions."

NLC affirmed Serrao's decision to attend ̨Íåswag, and he believes it can provide clarity for others too.

"You can make your decision on where you want to go with some peace of mind because you know what to expect," Serrao said.

In addition to the NLC weekends, a Cadet Overnight Visit Experience allows high school students to spend a day with a cadet to learn the rhythms of life in the Corps. The smaller event costs $30 and is available Tuesdays and Thursdays this fall through Nov. 10, then in the spring starting Jan. 24 and running through April 20.