The title speaks for itself. With that being said I am by no means trying to be greedy, but I am trying to make myself better aware of the things to take advantage of as a USMA cadet whether it be financial planning or certain networks/connections or other rather underappreciated resources/departments available for my success. I read online that I would be considered active duty so does that provide any other benefits to use? I'm more worried about prepping to be a plebe however I would like some insight for the future. Thanks!
I won't dive into too much detail, but feel free to ask more questions or DM me.
1) You can waive the fee on Amex Platinum and Gold cards. This means you can get both and not pay anything (besides your monthly bill of course). It feels like free money.
2) Use your summers wisely! Participate in MIADS (Air Assault, Airborne, etc.) and AIADS (basically internships).
3) If you know your really into chemistry (just an example), then reach out to instructors in the department and find out about what they can offer. There are plenty of clubs, research opportunities, etc. that are available everywhere.
4) Once you become a cow, you get a career starter loan (Cow loan). You shouldn't worry about that rn, but it's good to know it exists. It's ~36k.
5) I recommend creating a LinkedIn account. You can add "Cadet at the United States Military Academy" and start extending your network! This is great for a bunch of reasons.
6) When travelling, you can use your DOD ID number to get TSA precheck. If you don't know how to do it at the kiosk, just go to the counter.
7) There are some pretty good restaurants in high land falls. I recommend checking them out with some friends. There's ice cream, Chinese, pizza, and more!
8) Arvin. Arvin has plenty of opportunities to develop yourself. They have a pool, plenty of weights, combative room, basketball gym, etc.
9) CEP tutoring. They have a bunch of resources to help you academically and mentally.
That's all I'll put for now, but the list keeps going.