Queen Creek High student recognized for JROTC involvement

Along with strong academic performance, Queen Creek High School senior Keegan Roque is making waves in JROTC.

As a battalion officer, he has developed strong leadership and management skills and has been awarded numerous scholarships to support his next steps after graduation, a Queen Creek Unified School District press release stated.

“It’s been the best thing I could’ve done for my leadership development. I’ve seen great leaders lead by example,” Roque stated in the release. “I’ve also had the chance to put my own skills to the test. There’s so much hands-on experience in the program that, over time, you develop leadership whether you like it or not.”

His commitment to JROTC has paid off. He has been awarded a four-year Marine Corps scholarship and a three-year Army ROTC scholarship, as well as other smaller scholarships.

“A lot of my family has served — my dad, grandparents, great-grandparents and my sister — so that definitely influenced me,” he stated. “Once I got exposed to it, I saw the opportunities, benefits and chance to travel. Most importantly, I like the idea of serving my country and leading others.”

With a full plate, balancing school and extracurriculars, such as wrestling, can become overwhelming, but also rewarding.

“My coach always says, ‘Lose the right way.’ At first, I didn’t understand it, but it’s about building good habits. If you lose the right way, eventually you’ll win the right way,” he stated. “I haven’t regretted any of the programs I’ve joined. I’ve traveled, met great people and had so many opportunities just by trying new things.”