Tips for SLE: Packing-Specific and General

usmausmausmausma

usmausmausmausma

USMA Class of 2028
Joined
May 19, 2023
Messages
132
Hey guys, I will be attending the second SLE session this year from June 10th to June 16th. I was wondering if any SLE alums had helpful tips that pertain to packing-specific tips (e.g. additional things that may not be on the list but are helpful to have) as well as general tips (e.g. how to get the most out of my experience and what to know beforehand). I have included an image of the packing list below, just for reference, as well.

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DD followed the packing list to a T and wanted for nothing more. It’s all there and no need to bring much beyond. When I dropped her off at WP, saw a few attendees hauling large suitcases or huge duffles as if they were going abroad for a month. It seemed like overkill and probably was.
 
Should the sheets be twin or twin XL? The list says twin, but I want to make sure my twin sheets won't be too small
 
The mattresses are a thinner version so you should be fine with normal twin sheets. Cadets typically use flat sheets only and make 'hospital corners' on the beds so fitted sheets are not usually used, but should be fine for SLE.
 
MidCakePa said:
DD followed the packing list to a T and wanted for nothing more. It’s all there and no need to bring much beyond. When I dropped her off at WP, saw a few attendees hauling large suitcases or huge duffles as if they were going abroad for a month. It seemed like overkill and probably was.
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I understand you don't pack more than the list, but how can one pack a blanket, sheets, and a towel with just a small suitcase?
 
ThomasJ said:
I understand you don't pack more than the list, but how can one pack a blanket, sheets, and a towel with just a small suitcase?
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I had a hard time fitting everything in my suitcase, but it worked out. The main problem was that at one point on the first day, you have very little time to get your long pants/shirt out with running shoes to show the cadre. I was struggling to get everything back in my suitcase with the time they gave us, but fellow CCs helped me out. Bring a mini pillow (smaller and/or flatter) if possible and make sure to bring a towel and sheets. If you don’t bring a blanket, it’s not the end of the world. Realize that whatever you bring will be dragged around by you for a few hours, but that’s it. After you’re in your room, don’t worry about it because leaving USMA is much more relaxed.

TLDR: make sure you know how everything fits in your suitcase and pack as light as possible. Prioritize towel and sheets. Most importantly: pay attention, make friends, talk to Cadets, and have fun!
 
ozli24 said:
Hey guys, I will be attending the second SLE session this year from June 10th to June 16th. I was wondering if any SLE alums had helpful tips that pertain to packing-specific tips (e.g. additional things that may not be on the list but are helpful to have) as well as general tips (e.g. how to get the most out of my experience and what to know beforehand). I have included an image of the packing list below, just for reference, as well.

View attachment 14152
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Only thing I might add is to make sure your deodorant is strong. No laundry facilities + not very many issued clothes for exercise + bad deodorant = not good. My best advice is to talk to Cadets, create strong relationships with your fellow CCs, ask a lot of questions, don’t fall asleep (it won’t end well), and have fun! This is a super valuable experience that will help you decide if USMA is for you. When you’re deep in the application process this fall and wondering why you have to write so many essays, you will think back to SLE and (if you’re like me) remember how much you want to be there and push through. Also, do your best to pass the CFA while you’re there because it makes life much easier (pull-ups!!).
 
Have you received any instructions regarding the visitor pass for parents attending the closing ceremony? My daughter will be attending the 2nd session of the SLE as well, and so far we haven't received any information on how parents can pass the security/background check more efficiently. When we visited WP last summer, it took us nearly 2 hours to get clearance, and there weren't any major events happening at the time, just a lot of contractors. I can't imagine how they will handle such a large number of people on the SLE closing day.
 
Parent's remembrance:
DD used a large duffle bag that had straps and shoulder straps to wear as a backpack.
Bring pillow case and stuff the clean clothes to make a surrogate pillow.
Bring a throw blanket, not too fluffy and a thin beach towel.
The long pant/jeans got ruined, totally muddy!
Double check when you return and make sure NOTHING is left in the bag! Everything will be super dirty and disgusting! DD forgot and left some things in one flap and pwew!

Other advice:
If you can still use USMA CFA for the other academies, do it HERE! You will be so glad to check that off your list! Then you can move on to USCGA AIM and get the PFE done in July! Train, but also be prepared. You could do the CFA early in the week. Or late. You could be scheduled to do it first thing in the AM, or in the last group. Maybe on a full stomach, or maybe empty becaue you ate yours the night before. Those in your group will be of varying - and wildly varying - motivation. Do not let that distract you. Don't expect a lot of set up time. When it's GO, it's GO! Focus when reaching for the pull up bar; you won't get a second chance to change your position. Rip off the band aid, and get that anchoring CFA score done. (DD went in the very last wave, her group had lots of people that refused to even get up on the pull up bar, or defiantly walked the mile, because mommy and daddy made them go to SLE).
 
After taking the CFA, are the candidates given any indication if they passed on the spot or recommendations to retake later? If they score above average in all events, should they just take that score? Obviously, there's always room for improvement but to get it checked off the list takes a lot of stress off.
 
DS "should"pass CFA based on his prep. Feels he can greatly improve pull-ups over summer (post-SLE) and run time . He will need every possible point on application to have a shot, if they indicate he passed but did not max out scores, is he correct in not accepting the pass and taking again later to try for better scores?
 
Rambler said:
DS "should"pass CFA based on his prep. Feels he can greatly improve pull-ups over summer (post-SLE) and run time . He will need every possible point on application to have a shot, if they indicate he passed but did not max out scores, is he correct in not accepting the pass and taking again later to try for better scores?
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Good question. My DS is hitting the averages during prep, so he plans to accept it if he passes. Would be nice to raise the score later if needed though. I have heard it's possible, but he needs to get permission.
 
Emphasis on the hygiene kit. Especially shower shoes and a towel. And a bar of soap. No hygiene items will be provided.
 
I heard in past that SLE attendees receive a mailed package with USMA t-shirts and other items to wear during their time there. Is that correct or do they receive it once there? Not a lost of shirts on the packing list
 
Rambler said:
I heard in past that SLE attendees receive a mailed package with USMA t-shirts and other items to wear during their time there. Is that correct or do they receive it once there? Not a lost of shirts on the packing list
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I've watched my fair share of SLE videos on YT and saw USMA's ig post today and I believe you receive a USMA bag with t-shirts, shorts, a polo, a rain jacket, a hat, a water bottle, and a lanyard on the first day. (I may or may not be geeking about the gear).
 
smokey% said:
I've watched my fair share of SLE videos on YT and saw USMA's ig post today and I believe you receive a USMA bag with t-shirts, shorts, a polo, a rain jacket, a hat, a water bottle, and a lanyard on the first day. (I may or may not be geeking about the gear).
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You and me both smokey. I can't wait to get the gear when I go next week!
 
Rambler said:
I heard in past that SLE attendees receive a mailed package with USMA t-shirts and other items to wear during their time there. Is that correct or do they receive it once there? Not a lost of shirts on the packing list
Click to expand...
My son is there now and did not receive anything in advance. I know they got swag upon arrival.
 
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