Agastya Shahane
The Prowler, Arts Editor
Suraj Shah, a senior at Bridgewater-Raritan High School, was awarded the Naval Reserve Officers' Training Corps (NROTC) Marine Corps Option scholarship by three United States Marines officers on Tuesday, December 3.
He was surprised by the scholarship from these Marine officers, who visited Bridgewater-Raritan High School to present him with the scholarship check in the office of the Counseling department.
According to the NROTC, the Marine Corps Option scholarship is awarded to high school seniors who desire to become Marine Corps officers, attend a four-year college, and attend an ROTC or Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Program. When a winner is selected, they will attend their university with full tuition. The check that Suraj received was made out for $180,000.
After these students graduate from a four-year college, they will be fully trained as Marines through the ROTC program. This leadership and development program prepares its members for jobs and positions in the military. These students will become official Marine officers after receiving their degrees and graduating from college. According to the NROTC, They will begin their careers as Marines leading other Marine officers.
The NROTC stated that obtaining the scholarship is highly rigorous and selective. Applicants must first carry out a Marine physical fitness test to ensure they are physically capable enough to become a Marine officer. Then, they need to carry out numerous officer interviews. Along with this, they also must send their transcripts. Students must showcase that they are well-rounded.
One Marine officer explained during the check ceremony that Suraj stood out because he was “one of the highest guys he had in his profile for his academics” and that it “set him apart.” He also explained that Suraj was one of his top 32 applicants, which was an impressive feat given the many students applying for this scholarship.
Suraj reflected on this opportunity.
“I want to begin by thanking all the Marines who helped me through the application process and administered my interview and PFT. I truly appreciate the Marine officers coming here to give me this award, and I am honored to have won this scholarship. I look forward to the academic opportunities this scholarship affords me, and I am equally eager to pay it back through service.”
Principal Dan Hemberger of Bridgewater-Raritan High School shared his thoughts about this prestigious award.
“We are thrilled that Suraj has been awarded this scholarship. It is well deserved for one of BRHS' finest students,” Principal Hemberger said.
Evan Seavey, a Bridgewater-Raritan High School Counselor, has guided Suraj through his academic career. Mr. Seavey strongly felt that the Marines selected the right student for this scholarship.
“Suraj is not only an outstanding student - he is also an effective leader with multiple talents and skills who consistently demonstrates impeccable character,” Mr. Seavey said. “Suraj routinely takes initiative without being asked to do so, and is a fantastic teammate who supports others and leads by example. He is a terrific candidate for this award. The Marines made a great choice!”