RMA’s Junior and Senior Leadership Camps are for returning cadets and is the primary way we evaluate and select company leadership for the 2019-2020 Corps of Cadets. During Leadership Camp, your cadet will be selectively placed in various leadership roles among his peers while participating in fun adventure and outdoor activities. The degree and demands of your son’s assigned leadership role will be commensurate with his age and current level of experience. Camps are separated by academic grade level as explained below.
Senior Leadership Camp (Grades 10th - 12th) Designed for rising 10th-12th graders. It is a competitive, instructional, physically demanding, and closely evaluated evolution; the results of which will determine the Riverside Corps of Cadets' Chain of Command for the fall. Due to the competitive nature of the camp, participation does not guarantee an automatic assignment to a leadership position. Attending this camp is, however, the best opportunity your son will have to demonstrate a desire and an aptitude to lead his peers as leadership positions change hands throughout the year, the promoted cadet's effort and desire evidenced during Leadership Camp is always a determining factor.
Junior Leadership Camp (Grades 8th - 9th)
Designed for rising 8th and 9th graders. It is a developmental, introductory, fun (yet also physical) training camp, designed to develop an understanding of what leadership is, and the importance of good followership as young cadets progress into leadership roles in the Corps. While these participants will receive similar introductory training as the Senior Leadership Camp, they will also spend 3 days and 2 nights at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, participating in numerous outdoor activities and team building events.
Leadership Camp registration is an academic year 19-20 registration, so you must submit your enrollment forms and payment prior to, or on the day of registration.
If you have specific questions about Leadership Camp, contact your son’s TAC officer or the Commandant’s Staff at commandantstaff@riversidemilitary.com. The cost for camp is $400. Sign up at the parent portal (MY RMA). You will see the registration forms once you log in.
Here are the details about the Reflection Assignments.
Summer Reading & Response Assignment*
Senior Leadership Camp (10th-12th Grade)
Review the attached link (video/text) of Admiral William H. McRaven’s 2014 Texas A&M Commencement speech.
Answer the following questions, in paragraph/essay format, and submit a copy of your answers to LDickson@RiversideMilitary.comprior to the reporting date for Senior Leadership Camp (2 AUG 19).
Admiral McRaven stated in his speech: “If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.” Discuss the meaning of the above mentioned sentence, and how you will apply this analogy to your daily duties as a leader.
Admiral McRaven also stated, “Measure a person by the size of their heart, not the size of their flippers.” What was the make-up of the Munchkin Boat Crew, and why were they the best?
According to Admiral McRaven, “No matter how well you prepare or perform you still end up as a Sugar Cookie” during SEAL training. What is the purpose of being punished even if during inspection you are literally perfect?
List 6 things a student no longer has to do if he “Rings the Bell” in SEAL training. Elaborate on what lesson the Admiral is teaching us when he states, “if you want to change the world don’t ever, ever ring the bell?”
Junior Leadership Camp (Old Boys Grades 8-9)
Junio Leadership Camp (8th-9th Grade)
Review the attached link (video) of Rick Rigby’s speech: The Wisdom of a Third Grade Dropout.
Answer the following questions, in paragraph/essay format, and submit a copy of your answers to: LDickson@RiversideMilitary.com, prior to the reporting date for Junior Leadership Camp (2 AUG 19).
Rick Rigsby’s inspiring speech: The wisdom of a third grade dropout, Rick states, “Wisdom comes through failure.” Elaborate on what lessons are learned when you “hit rock bottom.”
John Wooden, the UCLA National Championship Basketball Coach, could often be found sweeping the gym floor. How do acts of service such as this impact your team and what does Rick mean by “Find your Broom.”
Mr. Rigsby mentions 2 opposing styles of Leadership: “Tough & Kind.” Effective leaders typically find a balance between the two styles. Give an example of when it is appropriate to be a “Tough Leader” and an example of when it is appropriate to be a “Kind Leader.”
In the closing comments of his speech, Rick Rigsby lists 7 suggestions from his father, the 3rd Grade Dropout Cook. Write out all 7 and discuss the one you most want to master during Leadership Camp.