I'm a member of AIM battalion staff this summer and I was an AIM cadre last year. If you want to succeed during AIM, it all comes down to two words: Passion and Effort.
All of the cadre care deeply about the Coast Guard and the Academy. It's easy for us to notice when those same sentiments are not mirrored back at us. If you want to serve, it will become abundantly clear, despite the short time we see you. That's why our program is so stressful; it forces you to confront your true self and grow in ways you didn't think possible.
However, it is important to understand that you need both passion and effort. If you are the fastest runner and memorize the most indoc, you might be putting in the effort, but it doesn't mean anything if you don't want to be here. Conversely, if you have a fire in your soul that isn't being translated into higher performance, the cadre will take notice and encourage you to push yourself.
Bottom line, if you start the week at maximum intensity and focus on getting the most out of the program, you will succeed. Put in the effort that matches your passion.
Looking forward to seeing you this summer!