What does military training at West Point involve?

I'm curious about the military training at West Point. What kinds of activities and programs do cadets go through? Is it different from standard military training, and how intense is it? Any insights would be helpful for understanding what life is like there.

Training at the United States Military Academy at West Point is designed to develop leaders for service in the U.S. Army, so cadets undergo some robust physical, academic, and military training.

Upon arrival at West Point, cadets begin with a six-week Cadet Basic Training (CBT), often referred to as "Beast Barracks." During this period, cadets learn basic military skills, including rifle marksmanship, first aid, nuclear biological and chemical training, and tactical maneuvering. It is meant to prepare them for military life, and is both physically and mentally demanding.

Following this, they progress to their academic course work, alongside continued development in military and physical training. Courses range from the sciences to humanities, but all cadets must meet certain universal academic standards.

Throughout the academic year, cadets practice military training on weekends, in the form of field exercises involving Army skills. This covers navigation, medical response, and combat simulations. It's intense, but is meant to simulate real Army experiences.

Summer training follows the academic year and focuses on building skills relevant to military leadership. Highlights include Cadet Field Training (CFT) in the second summer and Cadet Leader Development Training (CLDT) in the third summer.

The fourth year also provides an opportunity for Cadets to lead incoming freshman through their initial six-week training – bringing the training cycle full circle.

West Point's training is distinguished by this synchronized development in academics, physical fitness, and military leadership. The environment is structured and demanding, with high expectations for performance and conduct.

The intensity is certainly high. It is meant to prepare them for leadership roles within the Army, so resilience, strategic thinking, and physical endurance are all tested. But the academy also boasts a strong support network from staff and peers alike, to navigate through its challenges.