PS — Words of Wisdom & Advice on What to Bring

Should we bring an entire wallet or just ID? And will we get to keep a wallet thru PS?

I'm bringing my wallet with my ID, NFCU debit card, SSID card, and $100 cash. All were things they asked for, and a wallet seemed easiest.
 
Regardless of whether or not there is any benefit to having a small American flag, he had it proudly displayed on his bulletin board. Don’t know if it did indeed ward off any activity or not, maybe yes, maybe no. But it’s still a great anchor to focus on when/if struggling. I’ll also send one to DS #3 should he receive an appointment.

Great point. A small American flag in a Plebe’s room should not be the equivalent of a necklace of garlic.
 
Are we issued laptops for academic year or are we allowed to use our own?
 
You will be issued one, with all the bells and whistles that go with a computer. You will not be able to access schoolwork or academy stuff with your own computer due to security requirements.
 
Should we bring a copy of every form we filled out in the PTR or only the ones listed on the checklist and the two immunization form copies?
 
Should we bring a copy of every form we filled out in the PTR or only the ones listed on the checklist and the two immunization form copies?
On the USNA 2023 P2B Parents Facebook page they said to only bring what was required for the DS to carry. And the parents keep a photo copy of everything. They will send a detailer out to you if they need any of the additional paperwork.
 
On the USNA 2023 P2B Parents Facebook page
......

Famous last words. There is only one official source of information, USNA . Follow the directions in the PTR exactly as presented. Don't try to interpret or read between the lines, seriously-- they aren't trying to trick you ! The wording of the PTR probabably gets tweaked a little from year, but is largely tried and true.

I am sure that there is plenty of well meaning advice on the P2B Facebook page, and plenty of information passed down over the years. This is referred to "Gouge" at USNA, and there is an old saying that "You can live with the Gouge, or die by the Gouge." In other words, be careful about what you hear or see on Unofficial Sources (and that includes this FORUM).
 
On the pink sheet of the PTR saying "ATTENTION CANDIDATES", it states "Make copies of all documents before mailing and bring those copies with you on I-Day.

I'm going to hand carry all documents on I Day
 
If you bring them and they are unnecessary and they are taken from you, who cares? I’ve been to some of the Facebook pages and the angst emanating from some of the parents is not healthy to be exposed to.
 
Extra compression shorts are good, but those can be sent in a package from home.
How many extra pairs compression shorts and sports bras would you recommend bringing? Packing list says they issue six and 11 respectively.
 
I'm bringing my wallet with my ID, NFCU debit card, SSID card, and $100 cash. All were things they asked for, and a wallet seemed easiest.
My DD signed up for NFCU and never got a debit card. Did you receive yours already?
 
Bring a TI-84 calculator if you have one. They were permitted on some of the '23 placement exams.

Mine was confiscated prior to the exams because it was a "flashlight," but that's another story :rolleyes:
 
That is most certainly a hockey rink.
 
Do not bring the most expensive, fanciest cellphone in the world. USNA locks them up and does their best to take care of them. But with ~1200 of them, no guarantees. The ONLY thing you'll be using it for during PS is the three phone calls home. So get something that works to make phone calls and maybe text (not sure if that's allowed during phone call time but presume so). As you approach PPW (or whatever they will do this year that WE), your family can bring/send you a nicer phone, if needed and allowed. Also, if you don't have a phone, USNA will provide one for you. But if you can at all afford it, try to bring your own.

Agree with the others that less is more. Women might want to bring a few white (or very light nude in color) sports bras. They'll issue you some but there's one brand and no time I-Day to make sure it fits. Additional ones can be mailed later. Keep in mind that your white T-shirt will be wet most of the summer. Make sure whatever you bring won't show through.
 
How many extra pairs compression shorts and sports bras would you recommend bringing? Packing list says they issue six and 11 respectively.
Since you mentioned sports bras, and above, @usna1985 mentions your wet white t-shirt, colors such as white with good lining, and tan/beige, are usually strategic.

Go for the supportive, sturdy type that can stand up to industrial washers. Save the strappy, “glam yoga” styles for when you have more control over your life.
Google “One Hanes Place.” Discount outlet for Champion and other brands.



Capezio Bunhead large bun pins, three shades, available from Capezio, Amazon, dancewear stores, if you know you are going to have to put your hair in a bun and secure it firmly.
 
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A little more on the cell phone....those bags are tossed and thrown. As much care as they can muster with hundreds per company....I would most definitely recommend a good, solid phone case. Even if they are ugly. There WERE a couple that ended up with cracked screens...and it wont be reimbursed by usna.

Another piece of advice. You will have a con locker....make sure and lock up valuables. You have one for a reason! Unfortunately, as with anywhere, there are people who take advantage with unlocked valuables. I don't get it, but it happens. Point is, you also have a responsibility to take care of your things.

So excited for '24. Only 15 days for my guy! Two more weekends!!
 
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