During his final year at RJ Reynolds, there is not much that senior James Barnwell has not involved himself in. On top of taking a rigorous academic workload at RJR, Barnwell has been highly involved in the RJR Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Brigade and joined three varsity sports, one of which he began this year. 

Within the ROTC program, Barnwell serves as the school’s Brigade Representative, attending county-wide meetings representing RJR among other school brigades. In addition to attending brigade meetings, Barnwell frequents regular National Guard drill sessions which better prepare him for future military training.

For Barnwell, being an active member of the ROTC program allows him to prepare for his future within the armed forces.

“I have always wanted to join ROTC because I have always wanted to join the military, [additionally] it gives me confidence and pride,” Barnwell said.

In addition to the exhaustive physical requirements in the ROTC program, Barnwell has also joined three Varsity sports teams: Varsity Men’s Lacrosse, Varsity Football and Varsity Men’s Wrestling. Although never playing football before this year, Barnwell wanted to give it a try.

“I figured since it was my final year I might as well [play many] sports,” Barnwell said. “My favorite part about being on sports [teams] was the fun I had whether we won or lost.”

Upon graduating in the spring, Barnwell plans to enlist in the military and start basic training at Fort Bragg near Fayetteville, NC. While being stationed at Fort Bragg, Barnwell will also enroll at Fayetteville State University (FSU), where he will study Forensic Science.

For Barnwell, the opportunity to study Forensic Science will provide him with opportunities during and after his military service.

“Studying Forensic Science [at FSU] will help me in the military by giving me more insight,” Barnwell said. “After FSU, I will re-enlist till I serve twenty or more years and I plan on being a Forensic Scientist after my military service”

Whether Barnwell finds himself in the classroom, army base or science lab after leaving RJR, we can all give him the tip of the graduation cap for his commitment to serve our great country and make a positive contribution in our communities.