Details about the Naval Academy freshman class experience?

I'm hoping to join the Naval Academy, and I'd like to know more about what the freshman class experience is like. Can anyone share insights on the daily schedule, challenges, and any interesting traditions that new students go through?

Certainly, here's an overview of what the Naval Academy freshman class, known as Plebes, generally experience.

The journey begins with Induction Day (I-Day) towards the end of June, where new students arrive at the United States Naval Academy (USNA) and quickly transition to military life. The day involves getting a haircut, uniform fitting, medical exams, and finally the Plebe oath of office ceremony.

The starter pack: Plebe Summer is the rigorous 7-week training program all Plebes undergo before the academic year starts. This program is designed to transition students from civilian to military life, with a daily routine that includes waking up early, physical training (PT), naval classes, drill practice, and sports. The program helps thousands of individuals from vastly different backgrounds, experiences, and cultures, forge a common baseline of knowledge, behavior, and physical fitness.

The awkward: Plebes need to follow a specific set of rules known as the "Rate." One of the requirements is to memorize "Reef Points," a book of naval facts and trivia. Plebes may be required to recite these facts at any time. Acting as a critical link to the daily hall life, they also have specific ways of walking and talking.

Battles on multiple fronts: Academically, Plebes begin with a challenging technical curriculum, common to all students, regardless of intended major. This rigorous coursework includes classes like mathematics or chemistry. Learning to balance demanding course work with military and athletic duties is one of the most challenging aspects of the Plebe year.

The silver lining: Despite the trials of Plebe year, there are traditions that provide opportunities for teamwork and camaraderie. For instance, the annual Herndon Climb, where the Plebes work together to climb a greased monument and replace a Plebe hat at the top with an upperclassman's hat, symbolizes the culmination of the challenging year.

Remember, everyone experiences Plebe year differently; these are merely generalities. It's important to remain focused, remember why you chose to attend the Naval Academy, maintain a sense of humor, and know that everything from that year is designed to help you develop the skills you'll need as a future officer.