By ALISA THOMAS

Staff Writer

Emily Sharpe, a cadet in the Air Force ROTC, Detachment 305, has been chosen as one of 10 cadets from around the nation to attend the Olmsted Cultural Professional Development Program.

Sharpe, a senior political science and English double major, has received the opportunity to tour Russia this summer to learn about Russia's military and historical culture.

"The purpose of the program is to provide cross-cultural broadening opportunities in foreign speaking countries for selected Air Force ROTC cadets," Sharpe said.

Sharpe was nominated by Detachment 305.

The program picks the top cadets from the nation -- only cadets who rank at the top of their detachment are even considered.

Sharpe said she considers her recognition a privilege and honor.

"I hope to represent our detachment well," Sharpe said. "This is not an everyday occurrence or honor, so it is nice to receive a reward for all the hard work I have put in."

Her award includes payment for travel, housing, food and other expenses. She will also be paid a small amount for attending the trip, she said.

The experience alone is the biggest reward to Sharpe.

"I will receive a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be immersed and educated in the culture of Russia, which will hopefully make me a better Air Force ROTC officer," she said.

Air Force ROTC Commander Col. Ray T. Garza informed Sharpe of her selection this past week.

Garza said he saw Sharpe as a key leader in Tech's Detachment 305.

"She is an outstanding cadet, a superior leader and a dynamic individual," Garza said. "She has proven herself by being in the top 20 percent in field training in the summer of 2004."

Garza mentioned other accomplishments of Sharpe's that set her above the rest.

"She led the summer leadership school for high school JROTC juniors, 200 students from several states in this region attended," Garza said. "She did a superb job and many compliments were given."

Capt. John Morse, commander of cadets for Detachment 305, said he believes Sharpe deserves this honor.

"Her selection brings credit to herself, the Air Force ROTC and Tech," Morse said. "Through her performance in the ROTC and with Tech through her academic classes, she was eligible and competitive enough to be selected."

Sharpe said she thinks her selection is beneficial to Tech in that the school is being recognized for leaders doing something worthwhile.

"I hope to gain a better understanding of the culture and hopefully a better understanding of our relationship with their culture," she said. "I am positive this experience will make me more aware of issues related to the military and our international relations."

Although Russia was not Sharpe's first choice, but an assigned country, she said she still aspires to make the most of the coming experience overseas.

"Russia is one of the oldest countries with deep roots and fascinating features which I look forward to learning more about," she said.

The trip is scheduled for June 2-17; she will begin her studies in St. Petersburg and end them in Moscow.

Garza said he has the highest expectations for Sharpe in the near future.

"She will make an outstanding officer in the United States Air Force."