Tactics

Tactics Club prepares Penn State cadets for Advanced Camp by building skills in light infantry tactics, leadership, and individual tasks. Through practical labs on weapon systems, casualty care, radio communications, and situational training exercises, the club develops confident leaders ready to excel and guide their peers in the Nittany Lion Battalion.

Running Club

The Army ROTC Running Club welcomes runners of all levels, focusing on self-improvement, camaraderie, and personal goals. With weekly practices and race opportunities, cadets can improve their running while enjoying a supportive and social environment. The goal is individual progress, not just speed, ensuring every cadet grows each semester.

Lions Guard

The goal is to develop proficiency in Army drill and ceremony, fostering disciplined and confident cadets who are well-prepared to excel as future officers. By mastering these fundamental skills, cadets enhance their leadership and teamwork abilities while upholding the traditions and values of the Army. Additionally, the program seeks to establish a stronger presence of Army ROTC within the Penn State community, promoting awareness, engagement, and pride in the contributions of its cadets.

Cadet Relations Team

The Cadet Relations Team aims to recruit student leaders into the Army ROTC program, and also represent Army ROTC at a variety of campus wide events. CRT strives to “put a face to the uniform” and also improve the Nittany Lion Battalion through successful recruiting of new cadets.

Ranger Challenge

The Ranger Challenge Team’s mission is to win the 2nd Brigade’s Ranger Challenge Competition in mid-October and the Sandhurst Competition at West Point in the spring. Through rigorous physical training and skills like land navigation, weapons systems, rappelling, and combat casualty care, cadets test their mental and physical toughness. The team also aims to develop confident, dedicated leaders for Advanced Camp and the Nittany Lion Battalion.

Kaizen

The mission of Kaizen is to help fight pediatric cancer by delivering exceptional emotional and financial support to children, families, researchers, and staff connected to the Four Diamonds Fund.

Weekly Schedule

Physical Readiness Training

PRT (Physical Readiness Training) takes place from 0550 to 0700 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. During this time, you will engage in physical training alongside your Platoon, which consists of approximately 40 people, or your Company, which is made up of around 80 people. This is a structured and dynamic environment where you will have the chance to actively participate in physical fitness activities, as well as take on leadership roles. You will be involved in planning, organizing, and leading the workout sessions, giving you the opportunity to hone your leadership skills while contributing to the physical development and readiness of your unit.

Military Science Class

Class takes place on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with different sections available to accommodate various schedules. This flexibility allows you to select a time that works best for you. The courses are taught by your Cadre, which consists of experienced Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) who bring years of real-world Army experience.

Throughout the class, you will learn the fundamental aspects of the Army, including its structure, values, and traditions, as well as essential leadership and military skills. These lessons will provide you with a strong foundation in Army principles.

Leadership Lab

Lab is held every Thursday from 1530 to 1730 (3:30 PM – 5:30 PM) at one of several training areas both on and off campus. This time is specifically designed for you to apply the concepts you’ve been learning in class, providing a hands-on opportunity to develop and refine your skills. During Lab, you will engage in practical exercises such as land navigation, first aid, and leading your unit through various squad and platoon-level missions. These exercises are aimed at strengthening your leadership abilities, problem-solving skills, and overall military proficiency in real-world scenarios.