Hey all! -- I'm new here. :)

[thomasvlogs]

EDIT: Sorry, I didn't realize there was an introduction section.

What's going on everyone? I'm not much of a forum person (more active on other social media) but recognized that there have been thriving threads on all things service academy-related here (which is pretty awesome). First off, amazing community we got here -- whether you are a prospective applicant, parent, or an old grad. Second, with all this great information here, it would be much more efficient if it were all centralized in one location.

Just a short intro on me. I am a USMA grad ('16) and majored in EV Science/Engineering + premed prereqs. I was prior service in the Minnesota National Guard and served as a combat medic (68W). I attended the University of Minnesota prior to enlisting and attending West Point. While at West Point, I was accepted into medical school (but deferred my acceptance) and commissioned as a Medical Services officer. I'm currently with 1ID serving as an evacuation platoon leader for a Charlie Med. Prior to that, I was serving as a BN Medical Operations officer in a ABCT.

I also operate a YouTube channel that covers cadet life in the form of vlogs. On my Instagram page, I share advice, tips, and just personal experiences.

If you have any questions regarding the admissions process, cadet life, med school, active duty, or anything in general, feel free to message me! The best way to get ahold of me is through my social media (I'll leave that below). I look forward to connecting with you all soon. Best of luck on your service academy journey and thank you for commitment to service!

YouTube: ThomasVlogs
Instagram: ThomasVlogs1
Snapchat: Tom_Le
Email: contact@thomasvlogs.com

 

[GoArmy2022]

Hey! I have seen a bunch of your videos! Austin Welch and Pascal Brun both went to my high school. I'm fairly sure you know them!

Thank you for being so open to taking questions! You are on here for the same reason I am--to help people. I look forward to possibly meeting you (as I am waiting on an offer, having an LOA, noms, and being 3Qed. I know you go to a lot of Army events)!

Thank you for your service, whether it be to the Nation, the West Point family, or prospectives!

 

[prospective2019]

Welcome! I’ve watched almost all of your videos and follow you on Instagram and Snapchat, so it’s funny to see you on here too! I’m just a junior in high school but I think I can speak for a lot of people and say your tips and vlogs are informative for anyone interested in any of the service academies.

Thank you for your service and I look forward to learning more from you on this platform!

 

[Maplerock]

Thanks for your service!

 

[thomasvlogs]

Hey! I have seen a bunch of your videos! Austin Welch and Pascal Brun both went to my high school. I'm fairly sure you know them!

Thank you for being so open to taking questions! You are on here for the same reason I am--to help people. I look forward to possibly meeting you (as I am waiting on an offer, having an LOA, noms, and being 3Qed. I know you go to a lot of Army events)!

Thank you for your service, whether it be to the Nation, the West Point family, or prospectives!

Hey there! Thanks for checking out my content and following along. I know both Austin and Pascal (Pascal was my roommate during firstie year).

I appreciate the warm welcome! Definitely keep me in the loop with how things go.

I know going through the admissions process can be tedious, challenging, and daunting -- but it can certainly be done. If there's anything I can provide, it is giving people more certainty in their decisions. I am an open book. So feel free to ask me anything!

 

[thomasvlogs]

Welcome! I’ve watched almost all of your videos and follow you on Instagram and Snapchat, so it’s funny to see you on here too! I’m just a junior in high school but I think I can speak for a lot of people and say your tips and vlogs are informative for anyone interested in any of the service academies.

Thank you for your service and I look forward to learning more from you on this platform!

Thanks for the warm welcome and for following me on my journey! Glad to hear it's been helpful for everyone. It's very encouraging to continue putting time and effort into the videos and posts I push out. I am looking to expanding the videos outside of just vlogs so be on the watch!

Thanks for your support to troops and to this Nation!

 

[thomasvlogs]

Thanks for your service!

It's an honor to serve this great country. Thank you for your support!

 

[tiger8]

Love your Instagram page

 

[thomasvlogs]

A question for the prospectives: What do you want to do in the Army and why? Are you familiar with the branches that are currently available? Do you know about broadening opportunities? Let me know below and maybe we can ignite a fruitful conversation.

 

[Desert Rat]

Hello,

How many socks and underwear would you recommend that I take to BEAST? Is a disposable or digital camera allowed?

I appreciate your opinion and guidance. - Thanks

 

[USMAmomTX]

Thank you for your service to our country and for being willing to help all of us in this process!

 

[thomasvlogs]

Hello,

How many socks and underwear would you recommend that I take to BEAST? Is a disposable or digital camera allowed?

I appreciate your opinion and guidance. - Thanks

Hey there!

Good question. I would suggest bringing AT LEAST two weeks worth (1 pair a day) -- enough to do rotate in between laundry cycles. You will certainly go through more since it will be hot and muggy - also because of all the physical training. I would also recommend bringing a camera (digital if you are willing to risk it not breaking) to capture your moments throughout beast. It's been awhile, but if you show up and they say you can't have it, then at least you can store it away with your cell phone and other personals. Let me know if you have any other questions! Best of luck as you prepare for this summer.

Thomas

 

[thomasvlogs]

Thank you for your service to our country and for being willing to help all of us in this process!

Thank you for your support to our troops! I understand it can be a daunting (and pretty unknown) process but I am more than happy to share what I know. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thomas