Jacob Rob ‘21

“I’m in #ROTC. There’s 40 of us on campus, and if I’m honest, I’m viewed differently when I mention this affiliation as I think some people misunderstand those who choose to serve. It’s fair to criticize the policy of the military given its past. But I think the people who criticize service members are a bit misled. It’s not the soldiers they should have a problem with; but rather the policy and the politicians who send soldiers to war. As a SPIA major at Princeton, I’ve learned a lot about the realities of foreign politics and some of the more regrettable engagements of the military’s past. However, this did not drive me away from military service but rather further toward it. The military is a necessary force and accomplishes much good in the world, and while it is certainly imperfect, I firmly believe I can do far more good within the organization than from the outside. Both of my parents were in the @usarmy, my brother is career-military (and a ’18 grad), and my grandfathers and uncles all served as well. I have never met a soldier that wanted to go to war. It’s certainly the last thing I want. However, if something were to arise, and the people I live along side of were to be sent to battle, if not me, then who? A large part of me has always wanted to serve something bigger than myself and give to back to society, and I firmly believe that serving in the U.S. Army as an active-duty infantry officer is a great way to do so. Career wise, there are a few paths I can take: while in the Army I can remain Infantry, go into special forces, or go to law school and become a JAG. Post military, I hope to work in the State Department to help influence the policy which controls the military. Nonetheless, regardless of what I choose, @princetonSPIA has forced me to be more diverse, expand myself, have a broader understanding and perspective. And I think that’s what college is all about.” – Jacob Rob ’21