Drill Team Experience in Utah High Schools for Future Military Enlistment

Has anyone had any experience with high school drill teams in Utah? How beneficial is it if I'm considering a military career after high school?

Joining a high school drill team can certainly be beneficial in preparing you for a military career. Drill teams are designed to instill discipline, develop leadership qualities, and teach precision and teamwork, all of which are valuable skills in the military.

Participating in a drill team often involves physical conditioning, learning how to handle a drill weapon, and mastering complex drill routines, which can provide a taste of the structure and discipline of military life. You also have opportunities to develop leadership and decision-making skills through leading your squad or even running for a leadership position within your team. You might find this experience advantageous when adapting to the structure and expectations of military life, if you decide to enlist.

In Utah, drill teams can serve as good exposure to military etiquette and discipline, which are critical in your future military career. Some teams may even have a military-like hierarchy, offering you an introductory experience to rank structure.

However, you should also keep a wider perspective. Going straight into enlistment from high school is a major step, and there is value in exploring a wider range of pursuits in and out of school to ensure you're making the best long-term choice. While drill teams can offer valuable skills, it is worthwhile to consider some related activities that can also prepare you for a military career such as joining ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) at a college or considering other related extracurricular activities.

So, while a drill team can provide foundational training and insights into military-style discipline and practices, it's a piece of a larger journey. You'll also want to consider how to cultivate other transferable skills, such as leadership and communication, which can be obtained through a variety of activities, not just drill team.

Remember to take everything a step at a time and always try to gain as many experiences as possible, this way you have a broader understanding of your interests as you determine if a military career is right for you.