Virginia Military Institute, A
Refreshing Change
Almost two weeks ago, my wife and I took our youngest son to
college. This experience turned out to be much different than our trip four
years ago with our oldest son to a traditional four year university. Arriving
at VMI, I was struck by the lack of U-Haul trailers, roof luggage racks and
pick-up trucks overstuffed with all the comforts of home. Parents and new
cadets (know as “Rats”) walked to their rooms with the bare essentials, absent
were large flat screens, mini refrigerators, microwaves and fancy coffee
machines. The Rats even had cell phones taken and locked away in the basement,
no Facebook, twitter or texting for the first week!
Then came time for us to say good-bye. All the parents and
Rats gathered in the basketball arena where the Rats would be called down by
company and assembled on the gym floor. First there were speeches by the
Superintendent and senior cadets. The words of the Corps Commander filled me
with joy and pride. He eloquently stated how in a time when shortcuts have
become the norm, hard work derided and discipline almost non existent our sons
and daughters had chosen a much different path. One that was more academically
intense, physically challenging and lacking many of the comforts of other four
year institutions, but in the end, a choice that will lead to success after
graduation from VMI.
 |
| My son Alex, 1st from the left |
Finally, all the Rats were lined up and the Pipe Band began
to play. They marched off as the parents stood and applauded. There were few
dry eyes as we strained to catch one last glimpse and give a final wave. What a
difference, college freshmen marching off for grueling physical training and
demanding academics, instead of their first keg party or endless hours of video
games. I still get chills when I watch the march out video and I am reminded
how proud I am of my son and the choice he made. I send a heart felt thank you
to the faculty and staff of VMI.
