A product of Ripley High School and now an ROTC cadet at Oklahoma State University, Carter Salinas decided he wanted to become a better leader and the place to do that was in the ROTC program. 

“What made me want to join the ROTC program was the passion I had to become a better leader, so that I could then better lead soldiers on the battlefield,” said Salinas. “I am currently a junior studying HDFS with a concentration in Child and Family Services.” 

As a member of the ROTC program at OSU, Salinas said he is involved in several activities with the program and enjoys being part of an elite group at school. 

“Some of the activates that I have participated in as a cadet are recruiting, Ranger Challenge, and Color Guard,” said Salinas. “What I enjoy most about the ROTC program is the ability to put yourself in leaderships roles, so that you can then be self-aware of specific places you need to grow in order to be the leader you hope to become.” 

Salinas does plan on making the military a career once his time at OSU comes to an end. 

“I do plan on going on active duty after I commission through the ROTC program and I would like to work as an Infantry Officer,” said Salinas. 

Salinas explained it was an uncle who influenced him to become the person he is today. 

“A major influence in my life is my uncle Joe Salinas. He has helped me develop into the person I am today, and he continues to inspire and push me to continue to be a better person and leader. His influence and investment in my life is something that I am forever grateful for and can confidently say I wouldn’t be the person I am today without him,” said Salinas. 

Away from school, Salinas said he enjoys rappelling, golfing, and going to the lake. Cadet Salinas offered this advice to new and future recruits at Oklahoma State University. 

“I would tell anyone who has even the smallest interest in ROTC to come and give it a try because this could be for them, but you’ll never know until you try,” said Salinas.