Outstanding Graduate: Jacob Hoppe, School of Military Science

Hoppe is the Outstanding Graduate for the Air Force ROTC San Diego State University

by Aleah Jarin

May 17, 2021

Mechanical engineering and Air Force Leadership Studies graduate Jacob Hoppe has worked hard to achieve his goal of becoming a pilot for the Air Force.

“The Air Force Leadership Studies minor and Air Force ROTC program have been essential in helping me achieve my aspirations. Not only is it a critical step in becoming an Air Force officer but it has also provided a well constructed curriculum on what it means to be a leader, and provided an environment where leadership is encouraged, explored, and flourishes under an extremely dedicated cadre,” Hoppe says.

During his time at SDSU, Hoppe studied abroad in Israel where he was exposed to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to gain insight into a difficult geo-political situation and scratch the surface of understanding the different narratives and cultures that exist in such an important place to so many people. It was an experience that will continue to be applicable to my goals and has helped me grow as a person in numerous ways.”

Hoppe also received an ROTC scholarship out of high school which played a significant part in his college experience.

“This scholarship is the only reason I was able to attend SDSU. It gave me the chance to leave my home of Minnesota, attend a four year university debt free, meet amazing people, and explore an entirely different place that I otherwise wouldn’t have had the opportunity to.”

Hoppe’s involvement with Air Force ROTC professional development trainings gave him the chance to work directly with active duty officers who trained cadets nationwide. This experience allowed Hoppe to network, get a better understanding of active duty, and utilize his leadership skills in a new way.

“I hope everyone is able to chase their aspirations and find personal fulfillment and satisfaction in the things they have done, and will do. Step out of your comfort zone. Take the chances you have [at SDSU] to grow as a person and experience as many things as you can.”

The content within this article has been edited by Lizbeth Persons.

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