Day in the Life of a Cadet

Fighting Illini Army ROTC

Day in the Life of a Cadet

Spend a day alongside a Fighting Illini Cadet. Experience the morning fitness assessment, meet the Battalion, explore campus, and see where your path could lead.

Date Friday, December 4 2026
Time 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Central Time
Location University of Illinois Armory 505 E. Armory Avenue, Champaign
The Experience

See Cadet Life for Yourself

DILARC gives prospective students a firsthand look at Army ROTC at Illinois. You’ll spend the day with a cadet guide, visit the Armory, meet current cadets and cadre, and explore campus and classes.

Come with your questions about college life, leadership, scholarships, and what it means to be part of the Fighting Illini Battalion.

An Opportunity During DILARC

Earn an Illinois State Tuition Waiver

The morning CCFA offers eligible participants an opportunity to earn an Illinois State Tuition Waiver.

Eligibility and award decisions are subject to program requirements. Learn about scholarships and financial incentives.

Friday, December 4

The day starts at the Armory and ends at the Armory parking lot.

8:00 AM
Arrival & Check-In

Report to the Armory, check in, and meet your cadet guide.

9:00 AM
Hygiene & Breakfast

Shower, change, and have breakfast with your cadet guide.

10:00–11:45 AM
Army ROTC Open House

Tour the Armory, meet cadre and current cadets, and ask questions about the Battalion.

12:00 PM
Lunch

Take a break for lunch with your cadet guide and fellow prospective cadets.

1:00–3:00 PM
Campus Tour & Classes

Join your cadet guide for afternoon classes and a tour of campus.

3:00 PM
Dismissal

Return to the Armory parking lot at the end of the day.

Filmed in Fall 2020
Cadet Life in Minutes

What a Cadet’s Day Looks Like

This short video walks through a typical day for a Fighting Illini Cadet, from early morning training to classes on campus.

It’s an easy way to get a feel for cadet life before you spend the day with us at DILARC.

Where to Report

University of Illinois Armory

505 E. Armory Avenue
Champaign, IL 61820

Arrive: 8:00 AM, Friday, December 4
Park: Armory parking lot first for your parking pass
Call: 217-244-1407 if you’re running late
Get Directions
Arrival Info

Getting Here Is Simple

1
Connect with your escortArrange a meeting time and location with your cadet escort before the event.
2
Pick up your parking passOn Friday morning, report to the Armory parking lot first. Your cadet escort will guide you from there.
3
Need help?If you’re running late or cannot find us, call 217-244-1407.
Pack for the Full Day

What to Bring

  • PT gear
  • Gym shoes
  • Water bottle
  • Comfortable clothes
Join Us December 4, 2026

Spend the Day with the Fighting Illini Battalion

Registration is open for the Fall 2026 DILARC event.

Fighting Illini Army ROTC Battalion
505 E. Armory, Room #113
Champaign, Illinois 61820
217-244-1407
Join Army ROTC (link opens in new window)