Jane Darby is a first-year student at Stetson University and an Air Force ROTC crosstown cadet. She is the recipient of the J100 Scholarship and is already making a name for herself at Detachment 157.

Hailing from the rural town of Brooksville, Florida, Darby’s journey is a testament to her commitment to both her family roots and her passion to serve.

Choosing Stetson

A Biology major, Darby chose Stetson not only for its academic programs, but an opportunity to carry her mother’s legacy as a Stetson Hatter. She grew up hearing about her mother’s experience on campus, knowing she would one day follow her footsteps while benefiting from Stetson’s intimate campus lifestyle.

For Darby, the manageable class sizes have given her the ability to engage more directly with her professors, promoting an enhanced academic experience.

“Coming from a cow farm and living in a rural community, I am used to a smaller community,” she said.

A Crosstown Cadet

Darby also mentioned how she used to commute to what she felt was an overpopulated high school and how that was something she did not want to repeat during her college experience. Though her involvement with AFROTC comes with her own challenges, like commuting 30 minutes from Stetson to Det. 157, her past experiences has made it an easier transition to adapt quickly.

When asked what her most difficult challenges were as a crosstown cadet, she said “time management and creating stronger bonds with other cadets.”

Even with her challenges, Darby is passionate about her education and the program, and embracing the challenge of doing something larger than herself. She deeply values the numerous opportunities the AFROTC program provides, specifically developing her as a stronger leader and follower while gaining additional poise to achieve her goals.

What stands out most to Darby is the emphasis on teamwork and camaraderie that defines Detachment 157. She appreciates the support from upperclassmen, who are mindful of the unique challenges crosstown students and cadets face; ensuring they feel included and empowered throughout their journey.

Darby is one of many crosstown AFROTC cadets that continue to thrive. Viewed as Stetson’s premiere students and future leaders in the Department of the Air Force. Cadet Darby will always be a Stetson Hatter, but since joining AFROTC at Detachment 157 she will now carry the legacy of a Soaring Eagle.

– Cadet Captain Jesusgabriel Cardona‐Dejesus