How is the summer break at the Coast Guard Academy structured?

As a potential applicant, I'm curious about how the Coast Guard Academy structures its summer break. Do students have the opportunity for internships or training during this time, or is it a full break from academy life?

The summer break for students attending the Coast Guard Academy is somewhat different from traditional colleges as it's more structured around internships, Coast Guard training, and leadership opportunities than a traditional, relaxing summer break.

During the summer months, cadets engage in programs designed to address their professional development. These are tiered according to their class years:

1. Freshmen ("Swabs") will undergo Swab Summer, a rigorous 7-week training program designed to transition them from civilian to military life.

2. Sophomores (3/c cadets) participate in 100th Week and either cruise on the Coast Guard's sailing vessel the Eagle or on a cutter as part of their summer training.

3. Juniors (2/c cadets) have the opportunity to lead the newer swabs through their own Swab Summer, in addition to a summer experience focused on academics, internships, or research opportunities.

4. Seniors (1/c cadets) are assigned to different Coast Guard units where they serve in an active duty status to gain real-world leadership experience and gain exposure to their future roles as Coast Guard officers.

So, while there isn't a traditional break from academy life during the summer, these experiences are crucial for developing the leadership qualities, discipline, and skills needed in a Coast Guard career. It's an opportunity for cadets to apply they've learned in a real-world context.