I'm looking into the Coast Guard Academy and came across the CGAS program. Can someone explain what it involves and how it might help with admissions? Any personal experiences would also be appreciated.
The Coast Guard Academy Scholars (CGAS) program is a specialized one-year preparatory program designed for select students who apply to attend the U.S. Coast Guard Academy but might not meet all the rigorous academic requirements outright.
The program is a unique opportunity and is not a formal admission to the Coast Guard Academy. However, the high chance of getting into the academy following the Scholars program is a major perk - about 85% of CGAS students receive an appointment to the Academy following successful completion of the program.
Here's how it works: selected CGAS students would spend their first year of college at one of the participating military colleges like Georgia Military College or UMass Boston. They'll take college-level courses in subjects like English, chemistry, calculus, and physics, and also partake in physical fitness training.
In addition to these academic and training elements, CGAS students also must complete mandatory coursework on military indoctrination to help them adjust to Coast Guard life. I've heard from many students that this can be a challenging year, both academically and personally, with high expectations and a demanding schedule. However, successfully completing the program tends to make students savvier and better prepared for the rigors of the Academy.
After successfully completing the one-year CGAS program, then those students will join the Coast Guard Academy as swabs, which is the term for a first year cadet at the Coast Guard Academy.
To be considered for CGAS, you would first need to apply to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. If your application does not meet the requirements for direct admission but still shows potential, you may be offered a CGAS appointment instead.
I hope that helps clarify what the CGAS program is all about and how it can assist in achieving your goal of attending the Coast Guard Academy!
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