Navy College Location: What should I expect?

I'm thinking about the Navy after high school, but I have a few questions about Navy College. Mainly, where would I likely be located for schooling? What's it like there, and what should I prepare for?

Regarding your question about the location, Navy enlisted recruits generally go to basic training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center near Chicago, Illinois. After that, depending on your chosen job or "rating" within the Navy, your "A" School (the Navy's term for job training) might be at a different location. For instance, logistics specialists go to "A" School in Meridian, Mississippi, while naval aviators go to Pensacola, Florida. So, where you'll be located for the schooling largely depends on the selected career path within the Navy.

As for what to expect, Navy "A" School is quite structured, but less so than basic training. You would have a set schedule every day, with time for classes, study periods, meals, and physical training. You would live in barracks with other sailors and be expected to maintain certain standards of cleanliness and conduct. While at "A" School, depending on your command, you may have relatively more personal time compared to basic training, which you can use for studying, relaxation, or recreational activities within the boundaries set by the school.

In terms of preparation, a good idea would be to keep up with physical fitness, as you would likely have physical training while at the school. Familiarizing yourself with relevant Navy terms and protocol will also be helpful. Additionally, practicing good time management would be a significant asset as you'd be juggling coursework and other responsibilities.

Remember that while "A" School is your first step to learning your Navy job, you'll continue to have opportunities for further training and specialization as your career progresses. It's also important to note that experiences can vary greatly depending on the specific "A" School and career path, so it's a good idea to seek out first-hand accounts from those who have gone through the same training.