USAFA Cadets: Long-Distance Relationships?

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PeriteinUS

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Apr 28, 2016
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So I applied to USAFA, went to their Summer Seminar, but wasn't appointed. It's fine, but my girlfriend was appointed and will be attending this summer. This has kind of conflicted me because I know she won't have access to a lot of communication for the first couple months. With this being said, what do you guys have to say about long distance relationships with cadets? How much can you typically communicate with a fourth-year cadet? Thanks for your help.
 
I have heard of relationships that did great and others that did not. I know of one young man from our area that is a 2015 graduate and just got married to his girlfriend back here in Ohio. That relationship worked. Many have, many have not. The relationship question is so subjective and dependent upon the 2 individuals in that relationship.

As far as communication, there will be none during basic with the exception of Doolie Day Out. You may get a phone call that day. Only snail mail or Write2Them until A-Day. After that it will be squadron specific as far as when, where and how much they can use their phones. Generally, there is regular but limited communication during the academic year. I will just caution you to prepare yourself for things to be very different. Her social time will be extremely limited, especially the 4* year. I don't intend to discourage you, I'm just trying to help you with the reality of life at the Academy and your relationship with any Cadet, esp. the 4* year. It can work. I believe it takes a lot of maturity and 2 individuals that are secure and confident in their relationship. I wish you both the very best !
 
I have heard both good and bad long distance relationships in the USAFA. Many relationships have worked out very well. I personally would not like to have an attachment to someone in this type of environment. You will meet new people and I would fear I would get too caught up in life without your other and that would cause tension between you and your significant other. Obviously, this is all based on how dedicated you are to the other person.
I will have to agree totally with Badge250 on the communication bit. Don't expect a lot of social time, especially the first year.
It takes a lot of dedication to keep this type of relationship, but I believe if you love each other enough, it will work out!! Good luck to the both of you!
 
At USAFA we have what's called the 2% club.

Statistically, 98% of cadets* who enter the academy already in a relationship will break up with their SO at some point before graduation.

Only 2% of cadets who enter the academy with a relationship will graduate without breaking up.

As far as communication goes, there's facetime (most video services on the computer are blocked for now), and there's the good old fashioned phone call. If you have money to spare, you can also fly out to visit your SO some weekends, though freshman year will be tough since they are usually restricted.

*I'm part of the 98%
 
I know of one high school romance that survived the Academy, though later evolving into a friendship that's lasted decades. You never know. If you have a warped sense of humor, an old Navy line is "What do you call your girlfriend after your 12 month tour?" "Six months pregnant."
 
To Everyone:

Thanks for your feedback! It definitely helped get a better sense of what to expect.
 
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