Naval Academy Weekend Visits for High School Students

I'm a junior thinking about attending the Naval Academy and I heard about weekend visits. What do these visits typically include and how can I make the most out of them? Any tips would be appreciated!

The Naval Academy, like other military academies, offers a very unique college experience, and hence, they try to make their on-site visit program as comprehensive as possible. The Weekend Visits at the United States Naval Academy, also known as Candidate Visit Weekends (CVWs), are designed for students to get a real-life glimpse into the life of a midshipman.

During these visits, you'll have the chance to attend classes, eat meals in the dining hall, witness the physical training regimen, participate in drills, and most importantly, interact with current midshipmen. You may also have the opportunity to attend special events or athletic games, depending on the schedule.

As for making the most out of your visit, here are a few suggestions:

Ask Questions: Be prepared with a list of questions. This could cover academics, athletics, extracurriculars, service opportunities, life post-graduation, or simply about daily life as a midshipman. The current students can offer you their personal experiences, which can be very insightful.

Engage: Participate in the activities they have prepared for you. Don’t shy away from conversations with midshipmen, staff, and other visiting students. The more you involve yourself, the better you can assess if the Naval Academy is the right place for you.

Observe: Pay attention to the daily routines, traditions, and culture of the academy. Military academies have a different atmosphere compared to civilian colleges, and understanding this is crucial.

Take Notes: It can be a lot to take in, so jotting down your experiences and impressions can be extremely beneficial. These notes will come in handy when you're reflecting on the visit or when you begin writing your application essay.

Focus on Your Interests: If you have specific interests or fields you're considering, make sure to explore those. For instance, if you’re interested in naval architecture, try to visit related classes or talk with professors in that field.

Remember, CVWs are not just for the Naval Academy to evaluate you but also for you to decide if the Naval Academy is the right fit. So, go in with an open mind and make the most of this opportunity!