What do I need to know about the Coast Guard Academy's Rise Program?

I'm curious about the Rise Program at the Coast Guard Academy. What does it involve, and how can high school students participate? Is it helpful for gaining admission or preparing for academy life?

The Coast Guard Academy's Recognition of Individual Service to Excellence (RISE) program provides an excellent opportunity for high school students to get a taste of service academy life and enhance their understanding of the Coast Guard. Here's a rundown of what the program entails:

RISE is a summer program in Connecticut, which generally lasts for about a week. It's designed specifically for rising high school juniors and seniors, so students typically participate the summer before their junior or senior year. The program gives students the opportunity to live the cadet life, both academically and physically. You'll attend classes, train with cadets, learn leadership skills, and explore the different career paths available in the Coast Guard.

One of the distinctive elements of the RISE program is its focus on mentorship and community. The program is built around team exercises and leadership development activities which aim to establish a community among the participants.

Participating in the RISE program can certainly provide a boost when applying to the Coast Guard Academy. The experience gives you firsthand insight into the lifestyle and values of the Coast Guard, which can make your application more compelling. It enables you to write more authentically about why you want to attend the academy and how you see yourself fitting into its community.

Moreover, the program gives you the opportunity to interact with people who are involved in the academy admissions process, which can provide valuable insight. Keep in mind, however, that participating in the RISE program doesn't guarantee admission.

In summary, the RISE program offers valuable insights into life at the Coast Guard Academy and can certainly prepare prospective cadets for the rigors of academy life. If you're seriously considering a future with the Coast Guard, participating in the RISE program could be a highly beneficial step towards that goal.