When NIU Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Cadet Hailey Quiroz arrived in Jericho, Vermont, for the Basic Military Mountaineering Course (BMMC), she knew she was in for a challenge—but nothing could have prepared her for the intensity that followed.
“BMMC was one of the most intense and unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had,” Quiroz said. “Over 14 days, we were pushed both physically and mentally through demanding training designed to prepare soldiers for operations in mountainous terrain.” 
One of only two ROTC cadets selected to attend the elite two-week course—alongside roughly 75 active-duty Soldiers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force—Quiroz found herself immersed in a fast-paced environment where endurance, adaptability, and teamwork were constantly tested.
The course began with a grueling two to three mile uphill ruck march, setting the tone for the daily three to five mile treks to and from remote training sites. Days were packed with instruction and practical application: mastering knot-tying, building rappelling and hauling systems, navigating rugged terrain, and even engaging targets from a high-angle range using improvised tripods.
“One of my favorite parts of the course was learning how to rock climb outdoors,” she said. “It was inspiring to train alongside service members from different branches, all bringing unique experiences to the table.”
Despite the physical and mental toll, Quiroz says the course left a lasting impression.
“BMMC tested every aspect of our endurance, problem-solving, and adaptability. It was truly humbling, and I learned a lot about myself in those two weeks. If you’re in the Army or ROTC and get the chance to attend a special school, I highly recommend BMMC. You won’t regret it.”
Learn more about ROTC at NIU.
