The University of North Georgia’s cadets have aggravated non-military students because of the label “civilians.” UNG’s Dahlonega campus is a military based campus. Students who go here can either be enrolled as a cadet or a non-military student. 

Seeing cadets around campus is nothing abnormal. As non-military students are heading to class, study sessions, etc., cadets are usually in training. Since the contrast in lifestyles is apparent, there is bound to be tension between cadets and non-military students.  

Students like Oneika Bigby, a sophomore nursing major, says that the term “civilian” does not bother them in the slightest.

However, Alex Howell, a sophomore East Asian studies major, says he finds the term rude. “It comes off as self-righteous and has demeaning connotations,” he says. “They’re in ROTC the sequel, no need to talk like the Justice League.” 

Cadets like Israel Boerman, a senior political science major and Second Lieutenant in the corps, says that the term isn’t meant to be derogatory. 

Kaylee Cowden, a freshman nursing major and a cadet, says it’s a term only used in a setting with cadets. “I feel silly about it when I’m talking to regular people,” she says.  

Desiderio Walker, a junior sociology major and a Specialist in the corps, says, “I don’t see there being any conflict, as we cadets just want to do army while still wanting a normal college life. Every day we joke and ask what it’d be like to just have a normal college career.”  

Feature photo by: Abigayle Roma