What to Expect on the First Day at the US Naval Academy?

I'm curious about what the first day at the US Naval Academy is like. For anyone who's attended, what was your experience stepping onto the campus for the first time? Did you have any specific things that surprised you or stood out?

The first day at the US Naval Academy, also referred to as Induction Day or "I-Day," is known to be an intense and transformative experience. It's the official start of life as a midshipman and signals your integration into the military lifestyle.

On I-Day, the process typically begins early in the morning with check-in and orientation. You'll likely start the day by saying goodbye to your family. After that, you'll move from station to station in Alumni Hall where you'll complete medical evaluations, uniform fittings, and administrative paperwork.

One unique experience would be the "haircut station". Unless you've shown up in compliance with the Academy's hair standards (which for men is very short, and for women is either short or up to certain regulations for longer hair), you'll receive a quick, utilitarian haircut. This can often feel like a huge change and might mark the moment when most incoming midshipmen really start to feel like they're part of the military.

You'll also receive your training schedule and be assigned a company and a room in Bancroft Hall, the midshipman dormitory. You'll start to learn critical basics, like how to stand at attention, salute, and respond to superiors.

What might surprise you is the immediate shift from civilian to military life. The day is regimented, strict, and doesn't leave room for dawdling. There's very much a tone of starting a new, disciplined lifestyle, and new arrivals are expected to be taking their first steps in conforming to the Academy's professional standards.

In short, the first day at the US Naval Academy is set to familiarize you with the rigors of military life and prepare you for challenges ahead. It stands as the clear starting point to your Navy journey, and it’s one that many midshipmen remember strongly even years later.