Born and raised in Stillwater, Oklahoma, Tanner Robinson decided to attend college at Oklahoma State University after graduating from Stillwater High School in the spring of 2020. Robinson said he wanted to go to a school that would challenge him, and OSU was that school. During his senior year at Stillwater High School, Robinson was awarded a three-year scholarship from the Oklahoma State ROTC program. 

“Since I was involved in wrestling growing up and through high school, I wanted to still be a part of a challenging organization. The Army ROTC program here at OSU was the perfect organization to allow me to do that. Also, I knew that the ROTC program at OSU has had a successful history and I wanted to contribute to such a great institution,” said Robinson. “I joined the ROTC program as a freshman and applied for a national scholarship during my senior year of high school where I was awarded a three-year scholarship. The process was relatively simple with the head recruiting officer, Mr. Dale.” 

While serving in the ROTC program, Robinson and his fellow cadets are involved in all sorts of activities. 

“While serving in the ROTC program we have PT (physical training) three days a week as well classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays with a lab on Wednesdays. Also, every year there is a ruck march in remembrance of Major Scott Hagerty who graduated from OSU ROTC,” said Robinson. “The activity that I have enjoyed most in the ROTC program is the morning PT because while it may be hard to wake up sometimes, a bond is formed between you and your peers that hold you accountable and make it more fun.” 

A current business major, the OSU freshman would like to make the military a career once he graduates and commissions. His family does have a history of military service and Robinson is excited to continue that tradition. 

“When I commission after I graduate, I will hopefully serve as an Infantry Officer,” said Robinson. “I have some distant family who served during the Korean War, World War II, and the Vietnam War, but no immediate family.” 

Robinson said anyone considering the ROTC program at OSU should think of the opportunities and what it means to be part of something bigger than yourself. 

“I would encourage other students who are considering joining the program to try it out. If you join the program, you will realize the number of opportunities that you are presented with to push your limits physically and mentally, be a part of something bigger than yourself, and be surrounded by your peers who help you achieve your goals.”