How Are Service Assignments Decided at the Coast Guard Academy?

I'm trying to figure out how service assignments are decided for cadets at the Coast Guard Academy. Do personal preferences play a role, or is it mostly determined by the academy? Any tips on getting a preferred assignment?

At the United States Coast Guard Academy, service assignments are determined by both the cadet's class rank and their personal preferences. It's important to note that cadets don't just receive an assignment based on their major but also based on the service needs of the Coast Guard.

A cadet's class rank is based on several factors such as their academic performance, leadership abilities, and overall performance throughout their time at the academy. When determining service assignments, those cadets with higher class ranks generally have more preference in their service assignments. This means that, the better a cadet performs acadically, physically, and leadership-wise, the better their chances of securing their preferred service assignment.

As for personal preferences, cadets usually submit their preferred posts or assignments during their senior year. These preferences are considered along with the needs of the service. However, it's always the needs of the service that come first.

Here's a tip: it can help to network and demonstrate your passion and aptitude for your desired post. If you can get your superiors to recognize your dedication and aptitude, it might boost your chances of landing your desired assignment. Also, remember that your performance in all aspects of the academy: academically, physically, and leadership-wise, can impact your preferred assignment. So, strive for excellence in all areas.