Curious about Coast Guard Academy stories from cadets and alumni

I'm intrigued by life at the Coast Guard Academy and would love to hear personal stories from current cadets or alumni. What were some memorable experiences, challenges, or surprising aspects during your time there?

While I'm not a cadet or an alumnus myself, the Academy provides a rigorous but rewarding experience that sets up graduates for a fulfilling career.

Many cadets have shared a consistent theme about their life at the Academy: the first year – or Swab Summer, as it's commonly known - is the most challenging period. This is when the indoctrination into military life occurs and it can often be a steep learning curve. Cadets are put through rigorous physical exercises, heavy academic loads, and are required to master military customs and courtesies. As surprising as it may feel, alumni have mentioned that this phase actually played a crucial role in establishing camaraderie among their class.

The Academy also instills a strong sense of discipline and leadership in its cadets. Often, memorable experiences include taking on leadership positions within the Corps of Cadets, leading teams to carry out various missions. Some have specifically mentioned the vital learning experience they gained by leading underclassmen as Company Commanders and Executive Officers.

Another fascinating aspect of life at the Academy is the opportunity to travel on vessels like the barque "EAGLE," the Academy's tall ship. This provides the chance to learn seamanship, teamwork, and navigation firsthand. Not to mention, they also get to visit different ports, which can be quite exhilarating.

However, life at the Academy is not all work. There's fun too! Cadets engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, ranging from intercollegiate athletics to clubs focused on various hobbies and interests. The Academy's location in New London, Connecticut, also offers some great options for exploring the coastline and nearby towns.

In conclusion, while the Coast Guard Academy does present significant challenges, the opportunity to learn, grow, build lifelong friendships, travel, and contribute to significant missions make it an unforgettable experience for those involved.