When you pick the date, that is the day you arrive, correct? And I'm trying to decide between Thursday and Friday. Is there any difference in the experience based on which day you go?
Some thoughts from my son's experience:
- You'll want to experience classroom time, so I'd probably avoid a Friday/Saturday combo. You'd also likely miss the mandatory breakfast in the mess hall if your morning there was a Saturday.
- DS arrived Monday morning, so he was able to do some afternoon classes & activities, then breakfast, class, etc Tuesday AM. That worked well, since his goal was to see the most he could of real cadet life
- Travel is easier flying in on a Sunday, out on a Tuesday. Always harder to fly out on a Friday anywhere. No matter what, plan on getting near highland falls the night before (fishkill, etc). You don't want to fly in the day of.
- If possible, I'd avoid parade/drill days. Parents like them, but you'll end up standing around or worse, your cadet will be excused and the two of you will end up killing time. If you go, you'll want to experience as much as you can. There will be time for hanging out.
- To the candidate asking about dragging with a buddy: I'd think hard about whether you want a (hopefully objective) stranger vs a bud who might be trying to convince you to come. Not that another cadet you drag with would not also try to convince you, but sometimes it's nice to have an totally objective viewpoint.
- The overnight was also very good for the parents. we feel we got much more out of it than some of the other branch visits. Information sessions were smaller & more focused, small group cadet Q&A, cadet tours, time was spent directly 1:1 with admissions & the parents, etc. It really addressed all of our questions and concerns!
- Your parents will have enough time the afternoon & 2nd morning to see something in the Hudson valley. Mansions, etc. It's worth a trip. And breakfast at the CIA is highly recommended! You will have time after the visit concludes to do some self guided tours around USMA and still catch an evening flight out.
- While your experience may vary depending on your cadet & company, my son was very impressed with how the company took him in, took the time to get to know him, and introduce him around. The company commander even scheduled time to interview him and answer questions.
overall, this is your time to experience the real deal. I'd pick your visit time to maximize your experience, and call admissions if needed to get the schedule.