IC athletics - good, bad, or no difference in cadet life?

[Bundy]

Just wondering if the additional demands & privileges experienced by ICs at the Academy makes cadet life more enjoyable, less enjoyable or totally depends upon each individual? And do doolies enjoy getting the chance to get away from the Academy from time to time for IC competitions or does this just add more stress to keeping up with their academic load?

 

[raimius]

Yes.


It depends on the person. If you are strong in academics and can manage your time well, being an IC can be an enjoyable experience. If you wind up struggling with academics, it can drag you down VERY quickly.

 

[PDub]

From what I can see, my football IC roomate is definitely having a more enjoyable time as a fourth class cadet. Restrictions are bypassed, has not ever been to a training session, and eats lunch at ramps. It's absolutely possible to keep up with the academic load, as long as you are willing to spend time studying. As for my roomate, he simply does not study on weekends and that's reflected by his GPA. If you will be an IC, remember to not forsake your classmates in your squadron, and put in that extra little bit of effort to show that you care.

 

[Downfall75]

I enjoy being an IC. The best part is that all my classes are finished before lunch so I don't need to worry about classes in the afternoon. Sitting at ramps is nice because you get to bond with your team. Traveling is also nice because you can leave the Academy for the weekend. Just this last week I was in Albuquerque, so it was nice. But yes, academics are harder because I usually have less time for homework because I don't get back to my room till 6 - 7pm.

 

[eagle36]

ICs have a different experience, and it can be argued that it's either harder or easier.

Harder: They are required to practice for many hours a day and miss classes for trips. They have to balance the miltiary side with the playing field.

Easier: They "don't do as much military" things: no trianing sessions, out of squadron more, sit at ramps tables (which are known for being super relaxed).

From my experience, it's up to each person. I know ICs who use their status to get out of things and "game the system". I also know others who excel in their sport in addition to everything else they're required to do. So it depends.

As for the time aspect, ICs obviously have a large time taken away, but so do other cadets. People are involve din various clubs and groups which take up just as much time as IC events. So i'd argue they shouldn't be that different, in theory.

 

[fencersmother]

My sons really missed the time they spent away from their squadrons and tried to do as much as they could with them.

You really must have the time management thing down to be successful at IC sports.