Salvador Pasillas is known on campus for his debates about communism, terrorism, and other governmental issues. He jokes around, or so we think, daily about how he worships Joseph Stalin and other various totalitarians and dictators. Influenced by his love for control, he has decided to join the Marines after he graduates later this year. His goal in doing this is to eventually become a commanding officer and pursue a full career within the military.

His passion was forgotten for a period of time.

“When I got to high school, I kind of forgot about that (wanting to join the Marines); I was focused on going to college and getting those good grades.” His desire was rekindled when he was introduced to the world of history. Pasillas remembered the love of playing with his toy soldiers, the love of watching all those documentaries on the History Channel with his mom, the love of war and the need to experience it. Some may deem his love for war as absurd, but to him, it’s everything.

“War is nasty, but it’s something I want to experience. I think it’ll enlighten me,” he said.

He also introduced the life of a Marine to Samantha Gonzalez.

“He basically sold it to me, and before you know it, his recruiter’s calling me and I’m suddenly on board for all of this,” she said.

Gonzalez has always dreamed of becoming a FBI agent. After doing some research, she found herself realizing that joining the Marines is a possible gateway to becoming one.

“The FBI likes to have experienced agents,” Gonzales said.

She has dedicated herself to her goal of becoming a U.S. Marine. So dedicated, in fact, that at physical training, where they condition all the cadets into shape and prepare them for what’s to come in the upcoming months, she has taken on a leadership role as a junior commanding officer of sorts who tells the cadets what exercises to do.

“Even if the whole FBI thing doesn’t work out, I still have a chance of gaining a career within the U.S. military.”

She also said that if a person was to work within the military, or any branch of the government for more than 20 years, no matter what the combination is, that person will be paid for the rest of their lives, meaning an early retirement, a steady paycheck, and health insurance.

Those who join the military have the option to attend college, paid by the U.S. government, after they complete their service. However, Julian Hernandez has decided to put his education first by obtaining an associates degree at Delta College, then transferring to the U.S. Air Force where he will become a military pilot.

“All of the branches of the government are ‘withdrawn’ right now, meaning they don’t want too many applicants. College is a backup in case the military doesn’t work after all.”

Hernandez’s uncle is the one who inspired him to go into the Air Force, having been a man of the military himself. With his uncle passing away when Hernandez was just five years old, he left a big impact on Hernandez.

“Anything he did, it was for good. I’ve always wanted to be like him.”