Regular Officer Training Plan (ROTP)-RMC 2000 - 2018 [Merged]

[Phoebe]

That's why I typed it and attached a document with a paperclip

I think I spent a good 6 hours on the written application not including process work and plans for the essay.

I don't know If I would be proud of that. I'm sure someone out there could have filled out their application in like one hour and still managed to include the same amount of neatness and detail. Filling out a written application is highly academic related and your objective should be to achieve a great level of entirety and neatness in the shortest amount of time. Civilian University and R.M.C. will determine how well you work under a time limit and or pressure.

I can say for myself though I had put a lot of work into my essay. It ended up being roughly 1500 words but through time management this was easy.

For some people entering the ROTP program, or the military in general, this attribute can determine whether or not they are successful. Good luck.

-Phoebe 

 

[Alex.Landry]

I'm proud more of the fact that I put my heart and soul into the essay which is really what was required at that point in time in my opinion.

I feel as if the evaluation for time management was more on the CFAT.

 

[littlewhitebuddha]

Yes this is true, the CFAT was intense.

And it might be best to aim a little higher than the minimum requirements. I can do about 40 pushups in a minute and my record is 18 overhand pull-ups, but I want to increase both of those numbers. As for endurance I think the real challenge will not be the distance, but the weight on our backs. It's something that most of us probably won't be used to. That's why I want to focus on rucking. Just walking with 30lbs on your back will require a lot from your muscular system, so I'm going to start by carrying a pack on all of my runs and doing hill climbs with a weight-laden pack.

 

[canada94]

Niiiice! Yeah that app was a beast.

So has anyone else been thinking about PT to get ready for basic? I'm gonna start rucking and get really good at pushups and pullups.

I have not been able to workout properly in the last 7 months because of my injury to me elbow. My family Doctor today actually told me the pain in my elbow caused by something I was actually born with might never leave (even though I did not have it prior).

I have doctors telling me I'll be fine, and some saying this will be forever, whatever it is, it's taking a toll on my confidence in whether or not I could be successful in BMOQ.

 

[matthew1786]

I can say for myself though I had put a lot of work into my essay. It ended up being roughly 1500 words but through time management this was easy.

For some people entering the ROTP program, or the military in general, this attribute can determine whether or not they are successful. Good luck.

-Phoebe 

I took the opposite approach. I attempted to portray the most clear, attractive and unique message in the fewest amount of words possible. In my experience I've learned that when it is your duty to go through seemingly countless amounts of similar text over and over (keeping in mind that you have to give your constant full attention in order to be fair from file to file), it is natural to just want to get it over with as the process can become long and tedious.

Hopefully when it comes time to reading my text, the grading officer will appreciate the straight to the point, shortened length approach.

 

[scriptox]

For pete's sake.. does it really matter if parts of the application were typed (including the essay)? Some people wrote it, some people typed it. Personally, I did what Alex.Landry did and typed my essay, why? Because before I actually submitted my application, I had two MCCs tell me that they personally thought it should typed. Once when I called and the second when I went in to hand in my application but felt that I should not submit it yet, so I typed it up instead.

But to be honest guys, I don't think it would be the decision maker whether you are successful of gaining entry into the CF or not.

(Oh and Phoebe, I can provide the names of the MCCs that advised me to type up parts of my application, since you and I both are applying from the same RC, just PM me)

Edit: Edited for clarity.

 

[littlewhitebuddha]

I have not been able to workout properly in the last 7 months because of my injury to me elbow. My family Doctor today actually told me the pain in my elbow caused by something I was actually born with might never leave (even though I did not have it prior).

I have doctors telling me I'll be fine, and some saying this will be forever, whatever it is, it's taking a toll on my confidence in whether or not I could be successful in BMOQ.

Yikes, that's rough. If you can prove that it won't make you a liability in your trade then you can probably get an exemption, but you'd have to push through it for BMOQ unless its completely debilitating. I;d just focus on getting as many opinions as possible, and check out some alternative healthcare options as well. Often I've got more progress with injuries by seeing chiros, massage therapists and acupuncturists than regualr MD's.

 

[Cui]

I personally do not have the neatest handwriting, but writing out the questions was not too much of a challenge. I was informed by the recruiting centre both times when I applied that I can and should type up the essay.

Anyway, since our files are already in the system, there is really no use in discussing such matters.

The best we can do is to wait and hope for the best.

Again, best of luck to everyone who applied.

 

[Chalupas]

Mike man I hope your elbow gets better, try a chiro or physio or maybe even acupuncture could help lol
And I know everyone's on edge about the applications but lets all just do our best to stay calm, there's no need to nit pick at one another
Regardless if the essay was supposed to be typed or not no one can change that now so let's all try to stay calm and Goodluck to everyone

Grayson

 

[littlewhitebuddha]

Yeah I kind of meant that handwriting analysis comment as a joke, even if they do look at it, that's not what's gonna make or break your app. Who knew it was such a hot topic haha.

 

[dcs]

Congratulations to all of you merit listed and now playing the waiting game.  My advice would be to sit back and relax, it is now out of your hands.  You gave it your best shot, and should be proud to have made it this far. 

In a perfect world the Selection Review Board would meet on specified dates... all those selected in the first round would receive an e-mail at the same time etc.    The world is not perfect, and you may start to have some advised around the middle of April and possibly a few days earlier.  (Even this is not though guaranteed)  A lot of offers are made in May and June and in the case of my son currently at RMC late July or early August.  SO if you don't hear by the third week in April don't get discouraged.

My other son is currently merit listed for this year and like you is anxious to hear hopefully that he has been accepted to RMC and if not civi university.  He has been accepted to Carlton and McMaster and waiting to hear from Queens who are always later than the others.

He, as did his brother prefer to go to RMC if offered the chance. While I can see it for programs not  offered at RMC, I do  not quite understand those applying having a strong desire to go to Civi Universities.  You are applying for a career in the military and to be officers.  If you don't want or like the military aspect and way perhaps you should re-think this as an option. My older son advised that there were a number of cadets that left as they were surprised at how hard core military it was. You are a soldier first an officer second and your trade third.  It is a military college and you are being educated to be military officers.  And.. you will have to then take  a number of courses that you did not take at civi U that are required.

My advice to those applying next year...... 

Start early, as soon as you have your final grade 11 (for Ontario or similar for other Provinces).  Ask for a certified copy (with the seal of the school etc). Apply in July and get things going.  This will avoid any panic or concerns as appointments do get cancelled and re-scheduled.  You may have to get some medical information or see a specialist to get a report etc.

Even prior to this if you still can....    Get consistent good marks. They do and should look at you grade 10 marks as well as grade 11 and first semester of grade 12. Play and be active in local sports and other activities.  Take on volunteer and leadership roles.  Take on jobs as you can over the school year and summers.  Think about who you would like to have as references and how appropriate they would be.  Visit a recruiting centre while in grade 9 and 10... take a look at the trades and requirements.  I keep hearing from individuals that it is important that you select a trade that you will enjoy and fits you as a person and could not agree more.  Don't start to find out about a trade when you are booked for an interview.

CFAT - spend some time to review and be prepared.  Take a look and try some of the other testing available on line. Review earlier math if you have not done similar in the past even couple of years. 

Get yourself in shape...... go running a few nights a week, or do other things to get you into and maintain good physical shape.

They are offering you a paid education and salary while doing so.  Summer training in BMOQ, and then trade related. A commission and position following graduation with further training and opportunities usually far greater than offered in the civilian world.

Yes they can appear to have high standards and at time individuals will not feel fair or justified. They are though their standards and what they are looking for in a cadet.

If it were your company would you not offer to the strongest candidates?  Those with proven ability to learn and retain information and details? Those with the physical ability to do the trade irregardless of where and without medical or corrective support? Those leading others and taking initiative?  Those going beyond minimum requirements and helping others?

Best wishes to all of you. You should be proud to have been merit listed and up for consideration.  In following over the next few weeks I hope to hear that quite a number of you ( and hopefully I as well) have some good news.

 

[canada94]

Yikes, that's rough. If you can prove that it won't make you a liability in your trade then you can probably get an exemption, but you'd have to push through it for BMOQ unless its completely debilitating. I;d just focus on getting as many opinions as possible, and check out some alternative healthcare options as well. Often I've got more progress with injuries by seeing chiros, massage therapists and acupuncturists than regualr MD's.

Agree 100% with this... the only Dr's that have actually taken pain away have been my Chiro, and my Massage therapists.. I am booked to see a Physio Therapist soon hopefully that will help out.

 

[jwtg]

So has anyone else been thinking about PT to get ready for basic? I'm gonna start rucking and get really good at pushups and pullups.

Unless there has been program overhaul, BMOQ isn't for another year for anyone who is accepted for the ROTP.  By all means get in shape, but BMOQ isn't for a while yet!  That should be good news for you!

Regarding the RMC offers coming out much later than other universities- you need to bear in mind that RMC is not like other universities.  You must be accepted to the Canadian Forces as well as to RMC, so there is a lengthier selection process.  You will also be paid by taxpayers money, so the number of spots is far more limitted.

I don't know the exact timetable for ROTP/RMC offers to go out, but I know that they hire you for a working spot in a trade 5-6 years after you enrol (4 years of undergrad, 1-2 years of training) so offers won't go out until they know how many people they're taking, for what degree programs, and for which trades.  Most universities don't have to match you up with a projected career as an infantry officer, pilot, etc. as well as slot you into an academic program, all the while accounting for accommodation limitations and government budget limitations.

The process is long.  That's the way it is.  RMC is a different kind of university, as you will see.

 

[MJP]

Unless there has been program overhaul, BMOQ isn't for another year for anyone who is accepted for the ROTP.  By all means get in shape, but BMOQ isn't for a while yet!  That should be good news for you!

Yes but if you fail the PT test at recruit camp then you will be placed on administrative measures.  Not a start anyone wants to make considering that we have more applicants than spots and will for the foreseeable future.  We can easily fire someone's ass out the door for not meeting our ridiculously low standards and fill the spot with someone willing to meet them.

 

[littlewhitebuddha]

PT isn't just about passing boot amp or making the min. standards. Fitness is a lifestyle, and it will have infinite rewards throughout any career. It's proved that being in good physical condition enhances your mental capacity, thus making you more psychologically capable, regardless of your trade. I wouldn't want anyone I'm working with to be a liability because of their lack of fitness, and I would hate to be that liability even more.

 

[MKos]

I took the opposite approach. I attempted to portray the most clear, attractive and unique message in the fewest amount of words possible. In my experience I've learned that when it is your duty to go through seemingly countless amounts of similar text over and over (keeping in mind that you have to give your constant full attention in order to be fair from file to file), it is natural to just want to get it over with as the process can become long and tedious.

Hopefully when it comes time to reading my text, the grading officer will appreciate the straight to the point, shortened length approach.

I took the same approach as this, i hope the same.

 

[jwtg]

Yes but if you fail the PT test at recruit camp then you will be placed on administrative measures.  Not a start anyone wants to make considering that we have more applicants than spots and will for the foreseeable future.  We can easily fire someone's *** out the door for not meeting our ridiculously low standards and fill the spot with someone willing to meet them.

Agreed.
Just making sure he knew that BMOQ is probably not going to be this summer.  I don't know if he's applied for the RMC or Civ U, but if he wants to go to RMC, he should focus on the fitness standards for the RMC PPT (higher standards than the expres) because that's the test RMC runs.

Good luck!

 

[OneMissionataTime]

For all those who are going infantry or want to be infantry; prepare for some pretty rigorous PT. Long-ruck marching, long distance running and a lot of bodyweight pyrometric workouts, (Push-ups, pull-ups and Up downs and planks.). Most of the lads on my TPs could crush a run 5k in 19 minutes and were equally impressive in muscular endurance (by Express standards 70 Push-ups non-stop; 70 sit-ups in a minute; 20 pull-ups). To lead the best you have too be the best, in all aspects.

 

[Dou You]

For all those who are going infantry or want to be infantry; prepare for some pretty rigorous PT. Long-ruck marching, long distance running and a lot of bodyweight pyrometric workouts

Hmmm, I didn't know that the infantry measured thermal radiation for exercise nowadays...  ;D

Sorry, as a Physical Geography major I had to...

 

[canada94]

For all those who are going infantry or want to be infantry; prepare for some pretty rigorous PT. Long-ruck marching, long distance running and a lot of bodyweight pyrometric workouts, (Push-ups, pull-ups and Up downs and planks.). Most of the lads on my TPs could crush a run 5k in 19 minutes and were equally impressive in muscular endurance (by Express standards 70 Push-ups non-stop; 70 sit-ups in a minute; 20 pull-ups). To lead the best you have too be the best, in all aspects.

Are Infantry applicant's during BMOQ held to a different standard then that of everyone else? Sorry if I am sounding trivial, this is a serious question!