What is the US Merchant Marine Academy Summer Seminar like?

I'm considering attending the US Merchant Marine Academy Summer Seminar, but I'm not sure what to expect. Can anyone share what their experience was like and if they found it helpful in making their college decision?

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) Summer Seminar is a unique opportunity for prospective applicants to experience the rigors and rewards of academy life firsthand. It offers students a true taste of what it means to be a midshipman at the USMMA.

The program is often a week-long experience where you’ll be immersed in academy life. You get a taste of the physical, mental, and academic challenges you'd face as a midshipman. This includes everything from attending classes and participating in athletic activities, to exploring hands-on components of the curriculum, such as navigation or engineering labs.

Since USMMA is a service academy, emphasis will also be placed on discipline and regimen, simulating the academy’s structured environment. You could expect early wake-up calls for physical training and then a full day of scheduled activities, dinner, and possibly some time in the evening for reflection or relaxation.

Regarding the utility of the program in making your college decision, many attendees find it enormously beneficial. Not only does it offers insight into the Academy's lifestyle and its rigorous curriculum, but also gives you a chance to interact with current midshipmen, faculty members, and other prospective students. The firsthand experience you gain at the seminar can provide a more realistic perspective on whether USMMA would be a good fit for you.

Remember, however, that while this experience can be enlightening, it may also be challenging. If you're considering a career in the maritime industry or the military, the Summer Seminar can be a great stepping stone towards understanding if this is the right path for you.