As a junior, I'm starting to finalize my college search. I've heard about a military college in Dahlonega, Georgia, and I'd appreciate it if anyone could provide some info about the experience, course load there?
It sounds like you're interested in the University of North Georgia (UNG) in Dahlonega, which houses one of six federally recognized Senior Military Colleges in the U.S.
UNG's Corps of Cadets, also known as the Boar's Head Brigade, offers a leadership program similar to ROTC that allows students to pursue a commission in the U.S. Army while earning their bachelor's degree. You do not have to accept a commission, however, and can still participate in the leadership program.
If you decide to join the Corps of Cadets, you'll live in the cadet residence halls with other cadets and participate in morning physical training, leadership classes, and leadership labs. Cadets also have a uniform that they wear to classes and around campus.
In terms of academics, UNG offers over 100 programs of study across the liberal arts and sciences. If you're interested in a military career, the military science program might be particularly appealing, but you can major in anything while part of the Cadets. The academic rigor will be comparable to what you'd expect at a traditional university. That said, balancing academics, military training, and other responsibilities can make the course load at UNG more challenging than at non-military colleges.
UNG is also known for its strong sense of community, reflected in the school's Honor Code and emphasis on leadership and character development. In terms of location, Dahlonega is a historic gold-rush town located in the North Georgia mountains, about an hour north of Atlanta.
Keep in mind the Corps of Cadets doesn't define life at UNG; about 20% of students participate in it while the rest attend as traditional students. Overall, UNG offers a unique blend of military and civilian educational experiences that caters to a variety of interests and career goals.
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