Ask any senior about future career opportunities and you’ll likely hear about the traditional post-secondary education options: attending university, joining the workforce, or even taking a gap year and exploring the world. For a select group of seniors at North Atlanta High School, a different path beckons—one that involves rigorous training, discipline, and an honorable commitment to serving the nation. These soon-to-be graduates yearn for the post-secondary military experience, and their journey toward becoming the next generation of leaders in the armed forces is gaining momentum. In their pursuit of admission to prestigious military academies and programs including the United States Naval and Air Force Academies, and the ROTC program of the University of North Georgia, this group exemplifies academic excellence and an undying dedication to embodying the core values of duty, courage, and self-sacrificing service.
The Naval Academy is among the most popular military academies in the country, and one standout cadet has his sights set on attending. Since the end of last semester, students have been perfecting the academies’ various challenging applications. Senior Carter Rose–looking to attend the Naval Academy in Annapolis–had an early interest in military aviation, drawing inspiration to serve from his grandparents. Alongside his four-year involvement in JROTC, Carter is emphatically prepared for military leadership as Brigade Executive Officer of APS. Furthermore, Rose has served as youth pastor at Trinity Anglican Church since sophomore year and has played Varsity lacrosse for three years while maintaining a 4.3 GPA. On weekends when he isn’t training on Army bases or perfecting his 6-minute mile, he spends time auto-detailing for his car maintenance company.
High in national rank and social responsibility, the Air Force Academy dually holds the position of most popular out of the various military academies. Senior officer Ryan Hoffman meets all the criteria of his academic predecessors. Positioned at the pinnacle of national recognition and embodying a profound sense of social responsibility, the Air Force Academy resonates deeply with Ryan, fueled not only by its popularity but by his intrinsic desire to carry forward a heritage steeped in dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering loyalty to his nation and its ideals. Hoffman’s resume assertively stands out among the fellow applicants. In just four years, Ryan has earned the Legion of Valor award, maintained a 4.3 GPA, become section leader playing viola in North Atlanta’s Symphonic Orchestra, and reached the highest level of honor of Boy Scouts as an Eagle Scout.
Apart from its remarkable reputation as a public university, the University of North Georgia (UNG) offers one of the best ROTC programs in the state. For senior officer Denton Boatner, the combination of academic rigor and a top-tier ROTC program presents an unparalleled opportunity for him to fulfill his lifelong goals in the Army. Denton embodies a mosaic of strength and discipline, evident in his multifaceted achievements. As a powerlifter, his determination and resilience are palpable, mirrored in his pursuit of excellence in physical endeavors including holding the esteemed rank of Eagle Scout which signifies his commitment to leadership, service, and a strong ethical compass. Denton’s expertise extends beyond physical prowess; his black belts in taekwondo, kickboxing, judo, and Kromaga demonstrate a mastery of martial arts that exemplifies discipline, dedication and preparedness for his future enlistment.
The values of honor, responsibility, and service are echoed in the collective tales of these seniors as they begin the next phase of their life. As a springboard for these future leaders, the North Atlanta community is proud of their stellar achievements and excited about the future legacy they intend to leave on society. The entire school community is behind them, eager to see as these young people develop into the next wave of leaders, saturated with the principles that will mold a better future for everybody. Marching ahead in formation, they represent the dedication and spirit of service that characterizes the heritage of those who chose to protect and preserve their country’s beliefs.
