Fort Knox—The rickety plank wobbles as a Cadet assigned to Alpha Company, 6^th Regiment, Advanced Camp, nervously shifts his weight, sliding across a makeshift bridge. Stabilizing the board, Jordan watches as his fellow Cadets safely crawl to the end of the bridge.

The Cadets are completing an obstacle during the Field Leadership Reaction Course—a collection of simulated exercises that force Advanced Camp Cadets to practice teamwork, communication, and balance. For Jordan, balance extends beyond his ability to cross tight ropes or climb teetering ladders.

He considers himself an eccentric personality, describing his leadership style as engaged. Jordan likes to encourage his comrades by cheering them on or bringing the exercise to life through sound effects or exaggerated urgency. The challenge, Jordan explained, is maintaining a professional environment while ensuring that his squad members feel encouraged and understood.

“It’s about uniting people as much as you can,” said Jordan. “We all have different experiences. We come from different walks of life.”

It is through maintaining this equilibrium, Jordan suggests, that the efficiency of his squad improves. He explains that he has struggled to balance professionalism and personality since his early childhood.

“I had a hard time sitting still. I always loved making a ruckus,” he said. “I had the younger brother complex for sure. I just veer on the rebellious side.”

Despite his affinity for chaos, Jordan understands that to succeed he must adjust to the task at hand. He believes that while staying balanced may require sacrifice and self-control, one should never lose themselves in the process.

Before ROTC, Jordan completed a marketing internship. While he was able to channel his creative energy into products, he ached for a high energy environment.

“It wasn’t the best,” he said. “I was sitting still a lot, so I stepped back and asked myself ‘what do I want to do with my life?’”.

Through ROTC, Jordan found his equilibrium. Through high energy environments and new opportunities, he was able to grow as a leader.

“I’ve learned how to hone it in, focus and be a team player while also being an individual,” said Jordan.

Cadet Brianna Fish, University of Miami, agrees with her comrades’ sentiment. Being no stranger to a full schedule, Fish has grown to understand the importance of sacrifice during preparation for Advanced Camp. During her third year of military science, Fish prioritized her mental well-being by letting go of many hobbies and clubs.

“I really struggled mentally balancing everything,” she said. “I had to learn some things are worth sacrificing for. Being successful in ROTC was really important to me, so I had to give some things up. I didn’t want to be overwhelmed.”

This lesson of time management and prioritization is echoed in her ROTC experience. Fish has found that she can be more decisive after becoming involved in the Army.

“ROTC forced me to think more critically,” she said. “Having more intent behind my actions has definitely helped me stay balanced.”

While Cadets are tested physically every day, they recognize the importance of prioritizing mental well-being and individuality.

“I’ve fallen a few times on this course, but balance is bigger than that,” Jordan explained. “I have to stay balanced for me—for my team.”