When you visit USNA, spare yourself the disappointing response from a firstie whose been hogtied to the academic, athletic, and military rigors for nearly four years. Don't ask the question, "If you had it to do all over again, would you have made the same decision?" Frankly, they may be midshipman, but they are still humans! I was in awe of the place, the people, the architecture, the history, the intensity, the order, the attention to detail, the cleanliness, the beauty, the...
Keep in mind, usually the fantasy is better than the reality, so what the heck, enjoy the illusion. All of the academies have their ecstatic and gruelling aspects. On the last day of our visit to USNA, I told my son that if he still wanted to go Navy, I'd support him. Yet, I wouldn't think less of him if he changed his mind. He'd go to either. I almost hope he doesn't have to decide between the two. What a mixed blessing that could be. I suppose you could promise yourself that you will never second-guess your decision during the hard times. You know, "Don't look back or you might turn into a pillar of salt!" Some people decide between two good options with a coin toss!