What is the Coast Guard Academy Genesis Program all about?

I've heard mentions of the Coast Guard Academy having something called the Genesis Program. Can someone explain what it involves and how it benefits students? Are there any prerequisites to participate?

The Genesis Program at the United States Coast Guard Academy is a distinctive initiative that broadens the diversity and inclusivity of the academy. As you're likely aware, the Coast Guard Academy aims to foster a diverse and inclusive learning environment, and the Genesis Program is one of the ways it reaches that goal.

The program is effectively a summer pre-academy program for newly admitted students. It runs for several weeks and aims to aid scholars in their transition to the academy. The agenda includes leadership development, team-building exercises, academic preparation, and networking opportunities.

Participants gain early exposure to the academy's expectations and norms, thus equipping them with invaluable resources to start their journey. The program also exposes cadets to various culture-related activities, helping them gain a greater appreciation and understanding of different backgrounds and experiences.

As for prerequisites, students can't directly apply to the Genesis Program. Instead, the Coast Guard Academy selects participants from the incoming class, particularly aiming to include individuals from backgrounds that are historically underrepresented at the academy, thereby ensuring a broad spectrum of perspectives.

It's worth noting that participation in the Genesis Program doesn't guarantee admission into the academy. However, it certainly gives students valuable experience and skills that would be beneficial as they embark on their academy journey.

In sum, the Genesis Program is a robust preparatory initiative designed to foster diversity and inclusion at the Coast Guard Academy, support successful transition into the academy for students from diverse backgrounds, and enrich the academy community as a whole.