Academy Experience Program for Scholar Appointees

[GS_in_SD]

In December I received an appointment to CGAS, and an email with an invitation to the Academy Experience Program (AEP) for Scholars in April. I did AIM in person last summer, and since I’m from the west coast, I would be missing 3-4 days of school. Would the AEP be beneficial, given that I’ve already been to the academy before and have accepted my appointment?

 

[ProudMom7]

While AIM lets you experience what your SWAB summer might be like, AEP gives you a chance to experience what a normal "day in the life" of a cadet is like. You would attend classes, go to practice, eat lunch in the wardroom, and see what life is like in Chase Hall. They usually try to pair up visiting students with cadets who are the same major and who participate in the same sport. It is a useful experience, but it is usually used to help an applicant make a decision. If you have already accepted your appointment, then I don't see the need for you to miss 3-4 days of school and spend money on flights.

 

[ArmyandCGmom]

My son did CGAS last year, and I agree with what ProudMom7 said. My suggestion would be enjoy your senior year and keep your head down and grades up next year at whichever Prep school they assign you. Your freshman year at the academy won't start for over a year and a half, so a trip now seems unnecessary.

 

[Westcoaster]

Totally agree with the above comments unless for some reason you are unsure about attending CGA and want more info on what it is like to attend. On the other hand, if you're all in then no point in visiting again in my opinion. This trip would be expensive, time consuming and you'll be there in July for summer orientation anyway. Good luck!