by Jack Jenkins

Created on: June 30, 2008

What to expect at the US Naval Academy

The three parts of the mission of the United States Naval Academy are to develop midshipman morally, mentally, and physically. Midshipmen can expect a challenging yet rewarding experience. The academic preparation is comparable to that of any top university in the United States. It should and will be required to maintain high standards of physical fitness, and participate in various athletic activities. Midshipmen also receive extensive training on ethics and leadership.

Before the conclusion of plebe year, freshman year, midshipmen choose from among many common majors offered at most four-year institutions. These majors range from English and history to physics to numerous types of engineering. Midshipmen must maintain a course load of at least 15 credits per semester with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Persons having difficulty maintaining this standard will find that most instructors are eager and willing to put in extra effort to help their students. With reasonable effort and dedication most students do not have problems academically at the Naval Academy.
Each semester students must pass a physical fitness test consisting of push-ups, sit-ups, a sit and reach, and a 1.5 mile run. The requirements for each of these categories remains constant all four years at the Academy, and are comparable to the highest standards set in the fleet. Furthermore, that should and must be enrolled in some athletic activity at all times. This could include a varsity sport, or an intramural sport. Intramural teams compete two to three times a week and end each season with a tournament. The winning company of each intramural sport earns points in the color company competition, an annual competition to be considered the overall most outstanding company at the Academy. Multiple gyms and other athletic facilities are available for use by all midshipmen to maintain their physical fitness.
Practical Naval training along with leadership and ethics training prepare midshipmen to enter the fleet as commissioned naval officers. This training takes the form of formal classes, informal training sessions, guest lecturers, and many other activities. In four years at the Academy midshipmen will have the opportunity to hear many great leaders both in the military and civilian communities speak.
The greatest benefit a midshipman will receive while at the Academy is camaraderie. Everyday experiences whether part of the curriculum or unplanned provide opportunities for individuals from varying backgrounds to form lifelong bonds of friendship and trust.

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