The choices we make in high school can affect the way the rest of our lives turn out. The classes we choose to take have an impact on our career choices and opportunities. For class of 2012 graduate Joseph Augustine, the choice to take ROTC for three years has made an impact on his status and income post-graduation.

“I got two stripes, and an extra 200 dollars a month,” Augustine said.

After graduation, Augustine joined the United States Air Force. He currently spends his days working on AN/ALQ 184 electronic countermeasure pods at Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina.

“[The pod] jams radiation frequency signals from incoming sand turrets,” Augustine said.

The Air Force offers a variety of ways to earn a degree while enlisted. Augustine plans to further his education as he is on active duty.

“It’s a great way to get your college knocked out,” Augustine said.

With the educational opportunities comes the breaking of social barriers. The collision of cultures of Air Force Members serves as a way of developing new friendships.

“You meet people from everywhere,” Augustine said. “During basic training I met a lot of good friends.”

On their downtime, Augustine and his friends take to the field, enjoying some friendly competition.

“We play competitive, friendly sports,” Augustine said. “I play flag football with my squadron.”

The Air Force has provided Augustine with experiences most don’t get in a lifetime. As appealing as the new experiences are the chance of not returning home is always there. According to Augustine, the thought of death is a common occurrence.

“You always have in the back of your mind you’re going to die,” Augustine said.

Augustine says he is looking to further his experiences, and made the choice of Shaw Air Force Base based on their high chances for deployment.

“I want to soak in the world,” Augustine said.