Experiences of African American Females at the Naval Academy?

I'm an African American female considering the Naval Academy. Can anyone share experiences or insights on what it's like as an African American female there? Are there specific support systems or networks available?

Absolutely, the Naval Academy, like other service academies, strives to be an inclusive environment. As an African American female, you'll have access to support systems to guide your development, make you comfortable, and address unique concerns you may have.

First, it's worth noting the Naval Academy's Division of Professional Development, which consists of a diverse cadre of officers. This group is ultimately in charge of the development, management, and administration of the character and leadership development programs, and they are always accessible for guidance.

Additionally, the Naval Academy is home to a myriad of clubs and organizations that could serve as excellent support systems. In particular, the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) has its own chapter at the academy. NSBE is dedicated to academic and professional success, and it provides you with a platform to meet, relate, and network with other Black engineers at the academy, thereby creating a support system.

Another organization at the Naval Academy is the Women's Resource Center (WRC), which aims to cultivate an understanding of the unique experiences of women and men within the Brigade of Midshipmen. They organize various programs and outreach initiatives to promote gender equity throughout the community.

Moreover, consider connecting with the Midshipman Diversity Team. This team works to foster an atmosphere of inclusivity and cultural understanding. They facilitate workshops, dialogues and events on social identity, bias, and other diversity-related topics. These programs are useful in how they help you navigate any unique challenges you might face.

Finally, networking with alumni can also serve as a form of support. Associations like the USNA Alumni Association and Foundation, which host events where you can interact with former students, can give you insights into their experiences and offer tips to navigate the academy.

Remember, we are discussing support systems here, but the experiences of individuals can vary quite a bit. As you're getting started, don't hesitate to reach out to different networks and resources if you feel the need. That's what they're there for!