What is the Merchant Marine Academy's overnight visit program like?

I'm thinking about going to the Merchant Marine Academy and heard they have an overnight visit program. Can anyone share what this experience is like and what I should expect if I participate? Is it worth checking out?

The United States Merchant Marine Academy's overnight visit program is a fantastic way to get a firsthand glimpse of life as a midshipman at the academy. As part of this program, high school students typically are paired with current midshipmen (students at the academy) to shadow for overnight stays.

Here's what you can typically expect:

- You'll spend most of your time with your host midshipman: This will give you a direct, personal experience of campus life, academic experiences, and cadet activities.

- Attend classes: You'll attend a couple of classes with your host, which will give you a picture of the academic environment, class sizes, teaching style, etc.

- Eat in the Mess Deck: You'll likely enjoy meals in the mess deck with your host and other midshipmen, which is a great opportunity to socialize and ask questions about campus life.

- Explore the campus: You'll get to see the key areas of the campus, including classrooms, labs, training facilities, residential halls, and the waterfront.

- Witness training routines: Depending on the schedule, you might witness some training routines which form an integral part of the midshipman's daily life.

As for whether it's worth checking out, for most prospective students, it is! This program helps you gain a realistic and personal understanding of life at USMMA, which can be invaluable when making the final decision on where to study. Plus, it's also a chance to meet potential future classmates. The experiences, conversations, and insights you'll gain from an overnight visit can go a long way toward ensuring your decision is an informed one. Remember to use the opportunity to ask questions and engage in as many activities as possible.

Note: As with all college visits, schedules might vary and activities can be subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check with the admissions office for the most accurate and updated information.