Plebe AMA!

Hi! What do you recommend for the computer package? Should I get a printer and an extra monitor or just the regular computer?
 
Was beast really that bad? How did you prepare for the physical aspect? Is life as a plebe as bad as they say?
 
What is your year's list for for MIADS and AIADS this summer?
 
What are some stuff that you recommend we bring after A-Day, for the academic year?
 
what kind of watch would anyone recommend? I know it can be any ~$15 watch with an alarm and stopwatch but I wanted to know any suggestions
 
Was beast really that bad? How did you prepare for the physical aspect? Is life as a plebe as bad as they say?
No beast honestly is not that bad. There are some days that suck, but there were always fun things that happened throughout those days that made it better. Just try and workout everyday. I’d say focus on what your weakness is. I sucked at running so id run 1-3 miles a day. But we never ran that much during beast. Just be semi fit and you’ll be fine. Obviously the more fit you are the easier things will be. And plebe life is annoying, we do a lot of dumb duties. But honestly it could be worse, it isn’t terrible tho. I really wouldn’t stress too much. Academics are the hardest part about this place because of the large course load. Time management is the biggest thing to focus on during the AY year.
 
Hi! What do you recommend for the computer package? Should I get a printer and an extra monitor or just the regular computer?

Honestly, just the regular computer is enough even though the monitor does help at times. For us, printers were not given to us until around spring break, so I wouldn't hold your breath about that...

I would recommend just the computer. You can always buy monitors from people or online. Your company area will always have a printer that you can utilize. If you get your own printer, you will need to supply the ink, the paper, etc.
 
What is your year's list for for MIADS and AIADS this summer?

Unfortunately no MIADS or AIADS for this summer. COVID backlogged the MIAD process for much of the upperclass, and its effects are trickling down now. However, I suspect that an airborne slot might be open for me next-next summer.
 
what kind of watch would anyone recommend? I know it can be any ~$15 watch with an alarm and stopwatch but I wanted to know any suggestions
I'm not a huge watch guy but for BEAST, I had a G-shock. Honestly anything that's waterproof, tells the time, and has an alarm is pretty useful.

For the academic year, an apple watch or Garmin watch is pretty standard.
 
Was beast really that bad? How did you prepare for the physical aspect? Is life as a plebe as bad as they say?
BEAST is as bad as you make it. It was pretty tough for me from the physical perspective since my preparation was rather lackluster beforehand. Unlike previous years however, our BEAST was more focused on building team cohesion rather than breaking us down like in the movies. It was still difficult don't get me wrong, but it probably might have been easier than earlier years. Honestly though, it is all subjective, you might find BEAST to be better or worse than I did, but it was survivable, and I think that's what matters most.

I really did not do much to prepare to be blatantly honest, I think the most difficult thing for me was overcoming my mindset regarding my ability to perform physically. Once I did that it wasn't all that bad (your body is capable of much more than you realize!)

Even though it is largely company dependent, life as a plebe will definitely be more strict for you than it was for us. Since we were the last "COVID" year, a bunch of the leeway that came with an unorthodox year is now gone. I won't spoil it that much, but what I find to be the worst part is waking up early to do trash duty. Not fun!
 
What are some stuff that you recommend we bring after A-Day, for the academic year?
I would definitely bring at least 2-3 towels. Mostly so you can rotate them without needing to wash them every 2 weeks, but also because you'll need a towel to workout in Arvin. Also, an ironing kit and shirt stays are pretty practical ISO your personal appearance. Bring some civilian clothes too so if you join any clubs that go on trip section you'll have something nice to wear. Honestly, it just comes down to a "needs" basis. Just get whatever you need.
 
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