Overnight Stay Jitters

[Nomak54]

I was very fortunate enough to receive an invitation to an overnight visit. I have not gotten a chance to visit the school, let alone got a chance to talk to any one who graduated/attended the school aside from my interview.

What should I expect? Any mannerisms to watch out for? And most importantly, is there anything I can do in terms of my application to make sure it's strong as possible?

 

[Mattegu]

Dude I’m going too. I’m scared but at the same time excited. Hopefully we get to see the drill team practice!!

 

[NavyHoops]

Eyes open, ears open, mouth closed, think before you speak. This is your visit, ask questions. Avoid comparing the classes to your high school classes or JROTC if you have that at home. It is not those things. Other than that absorb it all, be polite, and ask a variety of Cadets questions. Talk to Cadets from all class years as perspectives change as they grow. Talk to Cadets in your prospective majors to see what they studied and liked about the major. Talk to Cadets in ECAs and sports that interest you. If your hosts are Plebes they can have a great perspective on Plebe life and beast, but their view is still narrow to the other 3 years at West Point. Your hosts should be able to help connect you with other Cadets to talk to.

 

[MidCakePa]

+1 to @NavyHoops. Get a lot of opinions, because you’ll surely find someone who’s over-the-moon happy with USMA and someone who’s beyond-the-pale unhappy about USMA. The truth lies somewhere in between and you must be careful not to be overly influenced by polar experiences.

The most important question, when all is said and done, is “Can I see myself here?” If you feel “at home,” among “your people,” appropriately challenged yet adequately comfortable, then USMA is likely right for you.

 

[cmur942]

+1 to @NavyHoops. Get a lot of opinions, because you’ll surely find someone who’s over-the-moon happy with USMA and someone who’s beyond-the-pale unhappy about USMA. The truth lies somewhere in between and you must be careful not to be overly influenced by polar experiences.

The most important question, when all is said and done, is “Can I see myself here?” If you feel “at home,” among “your people,” appropriately challenged yet adequately comfortable, then USMA is likely right for you.

 

[SomeGaveAll]

My DS made me laugh when he texted me on his way home from the overnight (edited to make generic):
Cadet Candidate basic answer starter kit:
1. I’m from ________
2. Yes/No, I am/am not a recruited athlete
3. Yes, I am enjoying my visit so far
4. I’m also applying to _____, _____, and ____
5. Thank you, I will enjoy my time here at West Point

 

[SFRanger]

I was very fortunate enough to receive an invitation to an overnight visit. I have not gotten a chance to visit the school, let alone got a chance to talk to any one who graduated/attended the school aside from my interview.

What should I expect? Any mannerisms to watch out for? And most importantly, is there anything I can do in terms of my application to make sure it's strong as possible?

Relax, and enjoy yourself. The place is awesome and the students are wonderful. Every hall and building represents the history of our country and American heritage. Understand that this visit is really your time. Watch what they do, see what goes on, ask every question even if you think it is "stupid". This is your time to determine if this is really for you. Actually, you are interviewing them.