SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – A dental student from Carolina joined the U.S. Army Reserve while she completes her education.
Llelenys Rivera Rivera, 22, is a first-year student at the University of Puerto Rico School of Dental Medicine. She was commissioned this week as a second lieutenant and will receive a monthly stipend of more than $2 thousand until her graduation, when she will be awarded the rank of captain.
“I want to serve my country and this is a great opportunity for me to travel, see other places and meet new people,” Rivera said. “I’m excited about the training and all the opportunities.”
Rivera said her grandfather and uncle both had served in the military, so her family was supportive of the decision. “They agree it’s a good thing and they are happy for me that I am doing something I like to do.”
Capt. Juan Ramirez of the U.S. Army Medical Recruiting Station in San Juan said the Army has many incentives for medical, dental and veterinary students. “This is just one path,” Ramirez said. “We also offer full-tuition scholarships for qualified students who want to pursue and active duty Army career.”