Non-Physical PS Prep

mrdolphin

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Joined
Nov 2, 2016
Messages
26
Hello,

I was wondering if there is anything specifically that I should be remembering in the days leading up to I-day. There is a lot of conversation on the physical aspect and day-to-day life of PS, but I'd like to know if there is anything I will be expected to know when I show up on I-day.

Thank you in advance.
 
Keep a sense of humor, remember it's not personal and to take it one hour at a time. We all made it, so can you. On really bad days... remember they end, we all had them, they can't hit you or make time stop. If on night 1 you lay in bed and think 'wow. That was a day. What did I do?' Totally natural. If on day 1-3 you feel like you are in a haze... also natural. It will get easier each day and you will adapt with your classmates quickly.

I think your PTR has a list of items to know for day 1 like your SSN (can't tell you how many new Plebes don't know this) and a few other items like basic commands and maybe mission of USNA. Just follow the instructions.
 
Being strong physically really helps the mental aspect.

Some will show up knowing much of Reef Points - my DD did not and did just fine. Otherwise as Navy Hoops pointed out - there are a few things to know which are listed in the PTR

If you are not in excellent shape now. Don't spend this week trying to get there in the few days remaining. Work out and run but don't show up sore
 
1) Do whatever PTR says...don't attract unwanted attention by coming unprepared.

2) No need to study Reef Points..sure some will arrive thinking that they are getting ahead because they know everything in advance. Don't worry, the Detailers will figure a way to create stress for everyone. I don't think anyone really skates through Plebe Summer.

Bottom line, go in with a positive attitude, don't bilge your Classmates (you will learn what the means), and as someone else pointed out....don't be "that guy". If you are finding some particular aspect too easy, use that to help your Classmates. Plebe summer is one of those times that being vanilla and blending in doesn't hurt. You'll have plenty of shine and stand out during the remainder of your time at USNA.
 
Being strong physically really helps the mental aspect.

Some will show up knowing much of Reef Points - my DD did not and did just fine. Otherwise as Navy Hoops pointed out - there are a few things to know which are listed in the PTR

If you are not in excellent shape now. Don't spend this week trying to get there in the few days remaining. Work out and run but don't show up sore
Glad to see the comment about Reef Points- My DD has not put the to memory and has no desire to. Said she would forget them under the stress anyway. Would not be my game plan but I am sleeping in my own bed on IDay.
 
My 1/C said detailers in his company figured out who the Reef Point scholars were and went harder on them, at
least initially. He said he was glad he did not lay eyes on the book before his I Day.
 
Those who knew all their rates got a hard time for not helping others. Detailers will just focus on other stuff. Every Detailer will find a way to stress each Plebe. They find their weak point and push them. It's their job to. A few hours later or days later they will focus on someone else. It's part of the process of breaking down, building them up as individual Plebes and as Class.
 
Most years, the PTR lists a few things plebes are supposed to know on I-Day. Learn that. But don't be surprised if, on I-Day, it doesn't come out of your brain and mouth as quickly and easily as it did in front of your mirror.

Don't overstress or overthink I-Day. It's one big blur. Go with it. And while it will seem (and be) tough to say goodbye to your parents at the end of the day, take comfort in knowing that 1160 plebes are doing it right along with you -- most of those will very quickly become your friends and some of those will become your very best friends for life.
 
Thank you everyone for the informative replies! I will take all of your advice over my last few days of preparation.
 
Oh an a few other items. Sleep in and take a few naps these next few days, enjoy your favorite foods, watch tv, play your favorite video games, hug your family just because. You will miss the simple quiet things of home.
 
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