Formation of a Leader
Freshman Year
Highlights: Orientation, Cadet of the Month/Quarter/Year
Rank range: Private to Private First Class
Leadership opportunities: May join drill team or Honor Platoon .
Brief Description: During your first year, you'll spend most of your time just getting used to the Benedictine way.
What you'll learn: How to wear your uniform; basic military formation facts; how to march.
In this case: Luke came to Benedictine following eighth grade at St. Mary's. He finished up his freshman year with the rank of private.

Sophomore Year
Highlights: Individual Drill, Getting rank
Rank Range: Private to Staff Sergeant
Leadership Opportunities: May serve as a squad leader or guidon bearer.
Brief Description: During your second year, you may well find yourself in a leadership position, such as squad leader or guidon bearer.
What you'll learn: How to lead in a small unit setting.
In this case: Luke served as a squad leader with the rank of staff sergeant.

Junior Year
Highlights: .Summer orientation for first sergeants and above, first year of platoon or company leadership opportunities, platoon drill.
Rank Range: Private to Sergeant Major
Brief Description: During your third year, you and your classmates will prepare to take the reins your senior year. A number of noncommissioned officer position are available for the junior class.
What you'll learn: How to incorporate all of your leadership training. How to take charge and resolve situations.
In this case: Luke served as first sergeant of C Company.

Senior Year
Highlights: Conducting orientation for freshmen and leadership camp for junior leaders.
Rank Range: Private to Lieutenant Colonel (Battalion Commander)
Brief Description: You and your peers are in charge of all officer positions. You can be on staff or a company commander. You help plan and execute such activities as the Christmas parade, the Figure and the Sponsors' Ball.
What you'll learn: How to manage large groups and get the most out of your peers while setting an example for those who are younger.
In this case: Having served as commander of C Company, Luke will attend the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy following his graduation from Benedictine in June.