VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — On the job training is important for any career. 

During Veterans Month, Spectrum News 13 introduces you to a program Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers ROTC cadets that help them prepare for the future. 

It’s called Project Global Officer.

What You Need To Know

  • Project Go is offered at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 
  • It helps prepare ROTC cadets for the future
  • It's an 8-week intensive language and cultural immersion program with a focus on the Chinese language and culture
  • Project Go is offered at eight other universities across the country

Junior Brendan Conneely took part in the program. As a member of Army ROTC, he has big goals. 

One day he hopes to go to flight school. 

“It keeps me on my toes, keeps me going. It gives me something to focus on,” Conneely said. 

Learning something new is what drives him to be better. He did that and more.

Conneely remembers his trip to Taiwan like it was yesterday. 

“It’s pretty clear the military is changing efforts and looking more at Asia and expanding influence in Asia, having the cultural knowledge and not being ignorant to the lifestyles of other people in Asia is a huge career bonus,” Conneely said. 

Dr. Stephen Craft accompanied the group of students, sharing his expertise in the area with those who tagged along. Craft has letters upon letters from students thanking him for teaching them about Taiwan. 

He’s always had an interest in the region, saying he finds it rewarding to teach the next generation.

“So, for the students who have the opportunity to go to Taiwan and to learn the language and meet the people and experience the culture, I think it’s a wonderful experience,” Craft said. 

 

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University junior and army ROTC member Brendan Conneely takes part in a Traditional Dragonboat Race (Project Go/ Embry-Riddle)

The work to make this happen takes time and patience. 

Jennifer Fox is the director of Intercultural Communications and International Student Engagement. She said Project Go is offered at eight other universities across the country, specializing in five languages. 

“Not only are they getting a language instruction, but they’re also learning about the culture. They are learning the different variations that you can’t really learn in the United States,” Fox said. 

That’s why Conneely remains committed to his studies. He knows the opportunity is out there. 

“If an opportunity arises, don’t say, maybe. Don’t push it down the road. Take everything that’s given to you,” Conneely said. 

The next Project Go trip to Taiwan takes place in the summer of next year.