After Elliot Cochran, senior, graduates this spring, he will immediately abandon the identity of a high school student and adopt his next one as a Marine.

“It’s something I’ve wanted to do since I was little,” Cochran said. “I’ve always respected people in uniform, and being part of something elite has always had my attention.”

Cochran will be joining the United States Marine Corps, leaving less than a month after graduation for basic training in San Diego, Calif.

To stay in shape for the Marine Corps and pass the required physical tests, Cochran joined the HHS cross country team for the 2014 season.

“I have to run and lift everyday; that’s your entrance into the military. You have to be able to run three miles in 18 minutes, do 20 pull-ups, just a bunch of physical tests,” Cochran said.

In preparation for his journey, Cochran has formed relationships with other Minnesotans associated with the Marine Corps.

“I work with four other people; they’re sergeants down at the recruiting station in Bloomington. They tell you things like what to bring and how to prepare mentally,” Cochran said.

On July 6, Cochran will begin a 12-week basic training program. He will then complete another 12 weeks of infantry training.

“Once I reach the rank of corporal, I will switch to explosive ordnance disposal,” Cochran said.

This past Sept., Cochran signed his enlistment papers, stating that he will serve four years of active duty. In those years, he will be deployed overseas. His last four years will be reserve duty.

“If there is a World War III and they need more people [to serve], they would ask me to come back to active duty,” Cochran said.

The help of family and friends has been important in Cochran’s decision to join the Marine Corps.

“My father has been very supportive since day one,” Cochran said. “When I signed my enlistment papers, my mom cried.”

Since he will not be attending college right out of high school, Cochran will be using alternative resources to further his education.

“I will be taking classes online while I’m stationed. That way, I can get my Associate’s Degree. And then when I know what I want to do with the rest of my life, I will go to college, which will be paid for by the United States Military,” Cochran said.

Cochran keeps his head up and is willing to overcome any obstacles that may come his way in the next eight years of his life.

“[The Marine Corps] will definitely teach me a lot of leadership skills and teamwork skills. It will prepare me for life in general and how to be disciplined,” Cochran said. “I know it will be difficult, and there will be times where I want to quit, but I’m looking forward to the experience. I think it will be great for me.”