CVW - what to bring?

Knarf

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My daughter received an invitation:thumb: and is planning to attend the 10/22-24 weekend. I'm sure this has been asked before... what does she bring to wear? ... cell phone OK? What does she not bring? Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
 
CVW

Son attended CVW Feb. of this past year, he read on this forum that business casual seemed to be the best choice and went with that mode of dress which for him was khaki and polo or decent casual button shirt. He said he felt that was about right although he saw candidates in jeans and some in shirt and ties. He did take his cell phone as i do remember getting a text from him during the visit. He took a sleeping bag which he felt worked out well again a suggestion read on this board. He also took a bunch of homemade chocolate chip cookies for his plebes (which he originally resisted doing when suggested by his mother) but was convinced to take them when the question was put to him, " so your a plebe your in the middle of the dark ages and the outside world offers you some homemade chocolate chip cookies do you turn them down and call the guy a dweeb or do you munch and appreciate"? He said afterward that they were very much appreciated. I don't remember what information was given to him in the letter prior to the visit but if for any reason it differs with this definitely follow the information that you are provided by USNA directly. I believe the letter also suggested business casual and this board just confirmed that info.
 
I agree with the above and one other thing I remember is "leave the Varsity Jacket" or anything related to high school at home. Those who arrived in a tie, were quickly removing them. Button down shirt, polo shirt, khakis/slacks were the way to go.:wink:
 
Definitely don't where a full on suit... someone did that and it looks very out of place :)...
Also bring a rain coat too it's been raining off and on down here so you never know.
Cell phones are good and also bring like a book or something because whoever you're dragging may have homework or something going on- especially that thursday night. And most importantly, bring an open mind, tons of questions, and sift through everything that people tell you ;).
 
Business casual. As they say, "You only have one opportunity to make a first impression." Don't know if they'll permit you to shop in the Mid Store, but if you are granted the opportunity I'm sure you'll be buying lots of "USNA" stuff :biggrin:
Comfortable shoes, there will be lots of walking. You might also want to add some workout clothes or a bathing suit <if you don't use them, no big deal; but you never know what activities will be offered up to you and you don't want to miss out!>
 
I do not remember getting to shop at mid store during CVW. There is always the gift shop at the visitor's center.....
 
My son received a confirmation letter today regarding the CVW. As far as transportation they do give information regarding a couple of companies that you can contact for arrangements from BWI airport. If you are driving, the letter also contains information for parking at the academy. They recommend "tasteful, comfortable casual clothes". They also suggest pillow, sheet/linens, towel, toiletries, workout gear and swim wear.
When my son was at a visit to USAFA, he wore polo shirts and khakis. He also brought homemade cookies (like USNA13DAD mentioned above) and other snacks for his hosting cadets. Needless to say the cadets definitely appreciated it. My son brought homework so that he could work on it while his hosting cadets were studying.
 
Good advice in previous posts as to what to wear and bring:

Here is some advice on what not to wear:

Do not bring or wear your letter jacket from high school. You think you are hot stuff, the mids are laughing at you behind your back.

Do not wear shirts, jackets, pants that have Navy or Marines on them. The mids will not view you kindly. You are not one of them, you are a wanna be.

This advice comes from comments my mid has made to me.

Put your best foot forward on your visit. Look and act professionally and be respectful. These things will stand you in good stead.

Best of Luck to you.
 
What to bring?

Thanks to all for your advice. We are leaving Thursday. As we are flying, the sleeping bag sounds like a good idea. Is 2 dozen cookies enough? I know we can't possibly feed everyone... also, since we are flying, we need to pack lightly and make sure they fit in our luggage and don't become crumbs. Thanks again.
 
Is it acceptable to attend the CVW by yourself? I am planning on going to the 12-14 in November, but my parents are not able to attend. I have seen some posts that say they are going with their parents, is this still ok?
 
Hi Wilson,

Yes it is fine to go on your own. My daughter and her friends went together as a group. I did not attend nor did the parents of her friends.

GoNavymom
 
Wilson - my son will be going to the CVW this weekend by himself - first time to fly across country solo! :eek: He's excited!
 
Going alone. From BWI find the Supper Shuttle in the baggage area. I am sure you will find a group that is going to the Academy. You can split the cost and they will deliver you to Gate One. Check out their web site. It is a lot cheaper than a cab fare. Parents driving on the Yard get a Pass in the CVW package for your vehicle or a rental. Sleeping Bag is a good idea as you will most likely be sleeping on a cot. Bring something to read. As noted above, your Mid will most likely have homework but may be excused from other duties since they have a Drag (You). Your Mid may have a fun or not so fun Saturday morning schedule. It is up to you if you want to participate. Ask questions. Remember, most of them were seniors when you were a junior. Many of them are less than one year older than you. You could talk to them as your teammates and schoolmates one year ago. Talk to them now. Cookies, brownies and a smuggled Movie can't hurt.
 
BWI shuttles

http://www.theairportshuttle.com/

I've been using this company to and from USNA/home/BWI since 1996, very reliable and usually cheaper than Super Shuttle. Can be booked and paid for by CC online before traveling. They are used to going to "Gate 1 Naval Academy, King George St., Annapolis MD." They pick up at the same place Super Shuttle does at BWI on baggage level.

They also offer a military discount rate.
 
One last question... (hopefully)... is it OK to bring a camera?
 
I'm not certain about USNA, but my son took his camera when he went to visit USAFA. My son is planning on taking his camera to the CVW. He also took his cell phone. Although I understand coverage at Bancroft Hall is very sketchy.
 
Cameras are Ok. USNA is open to the public and people are taking pictures all over the yard.

That said: use common sense when in Bancroft and Company Areas. This is the mids home and there are certain activites such as plebes doing chow calls etc. that they would likly take a dim view of "outsiders" taking pictures. This is a common sense and coutesty issue. Use your head and you will be fine.
 
Cameras are Ok. USNA is open to the public and people are taking pictures all over the yard.

That said: use common sense when in Bancroft and Company Areas. This is the mids home and there are certain activites such as plebes doing chow calls etc. that they would likly take a dim view of "outsiders" taking pictures. This is a common sense and coutesty issue. Use your head and you will be fine.

I guess the best thing to do is to ask before you take any photos.
 
I'm not certain about USNA, but my son took his camera when he went to visit USAFA. My son is planning on taking his camera to the CVW. He also took his cell phone. Although I understand coverage at Bancroft Hall is very sketchy.

True - Bancroft Hall is like a nuclear bunker. This is why you see midshipmen by the windows or on an outside walkway when on a cellphone.

I talked to my twin sons (currently Plebes) more during Plebe Summer than I did once the academic year began. Three times throughout Plebe Summer they were handed their cellphones, taken outside, and given almost 30 minutes to talk. Hell, we ran out of things to say. We have never talked like that since.

Also, if you're thinking of taking a laptop - you should know that there is no accessible wireless signal at the Naval Academy - surprisingly, not even for the midshipmen.
 
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