Middleton High Cadet named top JROTC student in the world

TAMPA, Fla. — A Hillsborough County student is earning international recognition after being named the top JROTC cadet in the world. The Middleton High School junior beat out more than 600,000 cadets worldwide for the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution JROTC award.

Arthi Gouravelli is making history in the halls of Middleton High School. Her JROTC instructors say she’s the first they know of to ever receive the award.

“It’s a once in a lifetime that I think we will ever see this happen here in Hillsborough County,” said Robin Rutzke, an aerospace science teacher and JROTC instructor at Middleton.

Gouravelli says she still can’t believe she’s the number one JROTC cadet worldwide, which wasn’t an easy achievement.

“This is maintaining a high enough GPA, and then placing top 25% of our high school class, as well as 10% of our JROTC class,” she said.

In addition to her academic achievements, Gouravelli also had to write a speech, and win at the local and state levels before advancing to the national competition.

“Over the years in this program, I’ve advanced from the ranks of airmen to master sergeant and ultimately to major. Each position has given its own rewards and challenges all of which have shaped my future,” she read from her speech.

Walter Oswald with the Tampa Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution explained how part of SAR’s mission is to promote patriotism and inspire youth.

“The word that comes to mind is proud,” he said of her success. “Inspiring the next generation at every level today in patriotism and service and country in sacrifice, I think those are great skills and admirable goals.”

Gouravelli says joining JROTC is one of the best decisions she has ever made.

“One day, as I leave JROTC, I will be satisfied knowing I’ve built the character and conviction to give back to my community as a citizen of the United States,” she says.

Gouravelli still has one more year of high school to decide, but she says she plans on going to law school to be a lawyer or work in international advocacy.