Beast and West Point

What business can learn at West Point

2010-04-05T02:04:00.000-07:00

It was an honor to host Jeff Immelt, the CEO of GE, at West Point last week. Mr. Immelt holds worldwide acclaim as a great business leader, and also as a committed leader developer, earning him a kinship with those of us who view leader development as a calling. He was generous in spending time with cadets, and his optimistic speech about renewing American leadership went far beyond a pep talk and vision for GE. It was a rallying cry for the institution of American business to step up and, in concert with the public sector, lead an American renewal.

Why West Point?

Perhaps the most profound rhetorical question in Mr. Immelt's speech was: "Who will lead us?" The simple answer is, "Those we teach to lead." Frances Hesselbein, West Point's Class of 1951 Chair for the Study of Leadership, is fond of saying that there are two institutions that sustain our democracy--one is public education, and the other is the U.S. Army. Her point is that national security sets the conditions for an educated populous to self determine. It is revealing that Mr. Immelt's speech imploring business to set the conditions for American renewal was at the United States Military Academy--a place of public education in the interest of national security, with the mission of sustaining democracy.

This choice of West Point as a venue may be puzzling to the global business community--the militaries of China, India, and other global economic powers are vastly different in capability and culture from our highly professionalized, all-volunteer force. Therefore, those who view the military through the lens of a different national experience may find it hard to believe that our Army could harbor thought leaders in organizational development, or that the Army and business could share common approaches to leadership.

Even though Mr. Immelt offered statistics validating military officership as a trusted profession, there is a disdain for the stereotype of military leadership--a disdain that, ironically, we share. There is really no such thing as military leadership, though for some reason people find it appealing to try to cast leadership performed in a military context into a stereotypical caricature: hierarchical, inflexible, and structured. In truth, the things that people look for in leaders they choose to follow are the same across situations.

For years, our Army's operating environment has demanded less hierarchy, more flexibility, and better adaptation in structure. Under the gun (figuratively or literally), people are people, and we should listen to each other. The first point in Mr. Immelt's renewal paradigm is that we need to be better listeners, and his presence at West Point is a fantastic example of the military and business listening to each other. It's a great value proposition--listening doesn't require a program.

Getting beyond leadership programs

In fact, West Point has nothing that remotely resembles a "leadership program." Instead, every element of the enormously complex experience--academic, military, athletic, social, ethical, spiritual-- integrates leadership into the personally held, self identity of each cadet. West Point is the manifestation of systems thinking, applied to leader development. Everyone, from chemistry professors to the seamstresses at the uniform shop, understands that our aim is to produce officers for our Army whose self concepts will drive them to lead in all aspects of their personal and professional lives.

Mr. Immelt's call for "systems thinkers who are comfortable with ambiguity" aligns perfectly with our process for developing cadets. In our case the context is military, but the process of identity development is pervasive among high performing people and organizations. I was recently privileged to visit Rosie's Broadway Kids, an arts education organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children through the arts. Developing leaders is not a part of their mission statement.

Yet at Rosie's, young people from all backgrounds achieve excellence, serve as role models, hold each other to high standards, and develop identities that will guide their actions and define who they are, whether they pursue a career in the arts or find another purpose in life. Rosie's Broadway Kids is about as un-military as an organization can be, yet develops leaders in fundamentally the same way West Point does.

People live and work better when they have a purpose beyond themselves, and there is a fire starting in American business that values purpose beyond profit, closely aligned with the values of Duty, Honor, Country. As West Point helps build our Army's officer corps, we share a view that puts leadership at the heart of all human endeavors. We're eager to continue the dialogue within our military, with the arts, education, business, and all the elements of our national character, on how leadership can move our country forward. Together, we can realize the vision of a new cadre of leaders to change our world.

Note: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.

How Cadets are prepared to be an Entreprenuer!

2010-02-09T23:43:00.000-08:00

By Tony Cole, President & CEO, Anthony Cole Training Group

I recently had the great honor and privilege of visiting our United States Military Academy at West Point, NY. I was overwhelmed by the courage and passion of those that occupy this post. They are truly remarkable people and I was struck by how much the disciplines they practice relate to selling. Yes, it might be a stretch to tie what happens at West Point to sales and selling, but not much of a stretch. This group of young people consistently demonstrates at an extraordinary level all of those competencies necessary to succeed in selling: courage, desire, commitment, persistence and ethics. They are sales people in fatigues. They spend their day selling others on the connection between athletics and winning on the battlefield. One of the metrics for success: bringing everyone back alive. That is life or death.

I was introduced to the head of competitive sports at the military academy at West Point. We talked about measuring commitment. Commitment at the military academy is at a different level than what we consider as commitment. We think in terms of committing to prospecting activity; they commit to bringing entire companies of soldiers back to the states alive. However, we both have the same problem: "how do you measure commitment". I think it's simple:

Achievement of stated and agreed to non-negotiable goals
No excuses when you fail to accomplish goals

As simple as this concept is, and with all the leadership taught at the academy, this seemed to resonate and help them realize that, yes, even at this high level of performance, people are susceptible to performing less than they are capable of.

Their objective of focusing on building teams of significance and winning with honor is to prepare cadets for battle, for fighting, for protecting our country. They measure success by lives not lost and those not wounded. These are their objectives, their metrics for success, and they have fun, they joke, and they enjoy a deep commitment to each other and to the cause. It is truly a remarkable environment.

In addition to our discussion around identifying and measuring commitment, we discussed how they work to develop commitment and cohesion within their teams. I asked them what they do currently. Their response: they talk about and coach to vision, goals and core values, having the right team members and creating a culture that enables teams to succeed. Sound familiar to what it takes to build a committed and cohesive sales team? It was comforting to hear that one of the best learning institutions in the world addresses this crucial element of success the same way sales organizations must.

Here are some of the other lessons from my visits:

Lesson 1: There is time, and then there is military time

We met at 0600, began our program at 0610 and finished at 0640. I shook hands with this group of majors and corporals as they filed out to go to formation in the square prior to heading to mess hall and then to their first class of the day at 0700.

Cadets pack more stuff in before breakfast than most people do in a day. It is truly amazing to observe the capacity for work and effort that this group has. And their intensity is unmatched in anything I've ever experienced. Imagine what you could achieve if you approached your professional career with this kind of intensity.

Lesson 2: If you want to be good at something, I mean really good at something, desire and commitment alone won't be enough.

You have to drill, drill, and drill and then drill some more so that you can perform your task with near perfect execution every time. These cadets go through 'the routine' of preparing for battle in everything they do, so that when faced with the most difficult scenario, they can perform automatically and with precision. In selling, you may not think it's critical, but at the academy, it means someone's life.

Lesson 3: If you commit to something because of the desire for great reward, you have to be willing to pay a substantial price.

You need to invest. And not at the level that anyone would be willing to pay. No, if you want the big reward, you must make the big investment. These cadets willingly complete their 47 months of training and development knowing that they will be asked to make the ultimate investment.

Lesson 4: You must have standards of excellence.

These standards of excellence rest upon your vision, your mission and your core values. The core values at the academy are Duty, Honor, and Country. Every cadet lives his or her life by those values. Those values become their DNA. As a sales person, how you approach what you do for a living has to be in your DNA.

Lesson 5: Finally, I learned that the best of any class are the best of any class because of their willingness to learn.

It amazes me that these cadets, one and all, are sponges when it comes to learning. They devour information. They ask questions. They ask for clarity. They want to practice what they've learned. They want to execute and implement. They strive for extraordinary and do not make excuses for failing to meet "agreed to" objectives. Imagine pursuing your own goals the same way.

My parting thought is this: As you go about your day today, remember that selling isn't life or death. However, if you prepare and have commitment, your approach is based on solid core values, and you execute and work to win with honor, then you will win more than you lose. You will thrive and you will be proud of this business of selling.

West Point Struggles to Fill Ranks

2009-07-18T01:53:00.000-07:00

Qualified candidates dwindling

By Alexa James
Times Herald
WEST POINT — While the volume of applications to the U.S. Military Academy is on the rise, the number of qualified contenders to choose from is shrinking.
The reason for the disparity isn't grades or test scores or extracurricular accolades. The problem is physical fitness: An increasing number of applicants are out of shape or taking potentially disqualifying medications for conditions such as asthma or attention-deficit disorder.
"The youth in America are becoming heavier and heavier and, in some cases, obese," said Col. Deborah McDonald, West Point's director of admissions.WEST POINT — While the volume of applications to the U.S. Military Academy is on the rise, the number of qualified contenders to choose from is shrinking.

Her office has received more than 11,000 applications for the Class of 2013. That's 10 percent more than last year. Still, McDonald has concerns about filling the ranks. Last year, fewer than 2,000 met West Point's standards. "I do see a problem," she said, considering West Point will extend offers to as many as 1,600 applicants.Her office has received more than 11,000 applications for the Class of 2013. That's 10 percent more than last year. Still, McDonald has concerns about filling the ranks. Last year, fewer than 2,000 met West Point's standards. "I do see a problem," she said, considering West Point will extend offers to as many as 1,600 applicants.
The reason for the disparity isn't grades or test scores or extracurricular accolades. The problem is physical fitness: An increasing number of applicants are out of shape or taking potentially disqualifying medications for conditions such as asthma or attention-deficit disorder.
"The youth in America are becoming heavier and heavier and, in some cases, obese," said Col. Deborah McDonald, West Point's director of admissions.

West Point's student body of about 4,400 cadets balances a high-pressure mix of academic and military training. Cadets pursue bachelor's degrees on par with those of the Ivy League while training for five-year commitments as Army officers. Tuition — worth about $202,000 over four years — is free in exchange for service.
In tough economic times, it's not unusual for West Point to garner more interest, but to increase its presence among America's best and brightest, the Academy is implementing a host of changes to make its grueling, 18-month application process easier to complete.
Next year, the entire application will be available online. West Point is also retooling its Web site with new recruiting videos, including one targeting minority students.
The Class of 2013 has attracted larger numbers of minority applicants. Hispanic candidates are up 9 percent, and the African-American pool, which has been West Point's biggest challenge, is also increasing.
Admissions officials worked hard last year to build stronger relationships among minority members of Congress. The application requires a nomination from a senator or representative, so West Point staff met with minority caucus members on Capitol Hill to discuss the process. The face-time seemed to work.
"Our African-American nominations are up by 15 percent and congressional black caucus nominations are up by 50 percent," McDonald said.
West Point has begun extending offers of admission for the Class of 2013. Pine Bush senior Opeyemi Ifafore, 17, is among hundreds waiting for word.
"It's a great education," she said. West Point's discipline and leadership training is the experience she's looking for. "I know it's going to be tough," she said. "It's worth it."
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Top military schools report applicant rise

2009-06-29T14:06:00.001-07:00

Top military schools report applicant rise

ANNAPOLIS, Md., June 18 (UPI) -- Officials at three of the top U.S. military academies say they are enjoying a boost in applications thanks in part to the economic downturn.

Officials at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, along with the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., and the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., have confirmed application increases for the incoming Class of 2013, The New York Times said Thursday.

The military academy officials also credited the application increases to the declining number of casualties in Iraq and aggressive marketing efforts.

The Naval Academy has enjoyed the most significant increase in applications with 15,342 individuals applying for the chance to be among the nearly 1,240 Class of 2013 cadets. The application tally was the highest for the Maryland academy since 1988.

Meanwhile, West Point in Orange County, N.Y., received 11,106 applications for its nearly 1,320 open places in the incoming class. The Air Force Academy has nearly 1,350 class places available and received 9,890 applications.

The Times said the West Point and Air Force academy tallies marked a 9.6 percent and 10 percent increase, respectively, compared with last year's application totals.

I agree and disagree at the same time

2009-06-26T10:21:00.000-07:00

Why We Should Get Rid of West Point

By Thomas E. Ricks

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Want to trim the federal budget and improve the military at the same time? Shut down West Point, Annapolis and the Air Force Academy, and use some of the savings to expand ROTC scholarships.

After covering the U.S. military for nearly two decades, I've concluded that graduates of the service academies don't stand out compared to other officers. Yet producing them is more than twice as expensive as taking in graduates of civilian schools ($300,000 per West Point product vs. $130,000 for ROTC student). On top of the economic advantage, I've been told by some commanders that they prefer officers who come out of ROTC programs, because they tend to be better educated and less cynical about the military.

This is no knock on the academies' graduates. They are crackerjack smart and dedicated to national service. They remind me of the best of the Ivy League, but too often they're getting community-college educations. Although West Point's history and social science departments provided much intellectual firepower in rethinking the U.S. approach to Iraq, most of West Point's faculty lacks doctorates. Why not send young people to more rigorous institutions on full scholarships, and then, upon graduation, give them a military education at a short-term military school? Not only do ROTC graduates make fine officers -- three of the last six chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff reached the military that way -- they also would be educated alongside future doctors, judges, teachers, executives, mayors and members of Congress. That would be good for both the military and the society it protects.

What do you think?

2009-05-13T00:25:00.000-07:00

After countless hours, I have created E-Book! Free!

2009-02-01T01:40:00.000-08:00

Some people emailed me saying that I could actually make money off creating e-book and selling them to the public and online. After many, painful hours of putting the datas together and compiling them to form a perfect e-book, I realized that I wanted people to read the e-book format for free. I was so glad that many people enjoyed what I put in my blog, although there was one person who despised my blog. Remember, you can choose to either follow or disregard my blog, it is completely your choice. No one is obligated to follow my advice.

Anyways, FEEL FREE TO DOWNLOAD THE E-BOOK! I have tried my best to eliminate all the spelling, and grammatical errors! Have fun!

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My West Point Dance Crew!

2009-01-30T00:22:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! You can make your own dance crew at West Point if you want to! You can have so much fun like this! I was terrible in this video! We filmed it when I first learned on that day!

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R-day 2012

2009-01-30T00:12:00.000-08:00

During my year, class of 2012, R-day! Looking so pleasant on the outside...

Pillow Fight! My Favorite at West Point!

2009-01-22T19:46:00.000-08:00

Trust me, you will have fun at West Point as well.

P.S: I am the one with white cape, see if you can find me in the video.

P.S.S: Only plebes participate in pillow fight. It's one of many West Point Traditions. Honest, you will have a blast hammering others with your pillow! I DID!

My Interview Experience

2009-01-15T21:10:00.000-08:00

At first, I thought I was deemed neither smart nor confident enough to carry the show at West Point, but I realized that I was wrong. Numerous people doubted that I would be accepted to West Point. Because I wanted to prove them wrong, I knew I had to outshine myself during the interview to obtain my congressman nomination. Interview was one of the huge deals that determined whether I would be fit for the character of leadership at West Point or not.
I was clad in a suit and a dazzling tie, looking very sharp, and walked into the room where four interviewers were waiting for me. At first, I was very intimidated when I saw four tall gentlemen with different uniforms on. I realized that two of them were graduates of West Point, and the other two were from Air Force. My brother ended up with just two interviewers that were graduates of Air Force. Anyways, I knew this was my only opportunity to shine, and really express to them in limited time what I am really capable of aside from academic work. I never hesitated when I answered their questions. I never looked down but had my eyes zoned in to each of their eyes. One of the interviewers told me that I was very assertive during the interview. I realized that posture and your tone of voice all matter a lot during the interview. They told me that my SAT score was a little low to get into West Point, so they suggested me to apply to USMAPS. When they told me that, my confidence instantly ratchet up, and then I declared to them, “whatever it takes for me to get that acceptance letter, I will even walk into the admission office at West Point to proclaim to them that I am more than what I got on the SAT score, and a report card. Please, judge me at West Point, not by scanning the application paper, sir.” I think that shocked them a little bit, but at the same time, they were actually amazed by my assertive response.
And the next thing you know, a congressman nomination packet was waiting for me in the mailbox. So based on my previous experience, I just want to suggest the future applicants to be very assertive and tell them why you deserve to go to West Point without hesitation!

Calendar Information for Academic Year 2009-2010

2009-01-10T12:23:00.000-08:00

Calendar Information for Academic Year 2009-2010

29 June- “R” Day
10 August- CBT March Back
15 August- Acceptance Day Parade
17 August- First Day of Classes
21-23 August- Ring Weekend
7 September- Labor Day
12 October- Columbus Day (Observed)
11 November- Veteran’s Day (Class day for cadets)
25-29 November- Thanksgiving Leave
(Cadets leave after last class/duty)
12 December- Army-Navy
14-19 December- Final Exams (TEEs)
20 December – 3 January- Winter Leave
18 January- Martin Luther King (Class day for cadets)
23 January- 500th Night (Junior/Cow Class Event)
30 January- Yearling Winter Weekend
15 February- President’s Day (Observed)
27 February- 100th Night (Senior/First Class Event)
12-14 March- Plebe Parent Weekend
13-21 March- Spring Leave
8-15 May- Final Exams (TEEs)
22 May- Class of 2010 Graduation

High School is almost over! Can I slack off now!?

2009-01-07T15:30:00.000-08:00

Your high school senior year is almost over! Hooray!
Not so fast! I really want to stress this out before students start to slack off and completely lose their momentums on “good work-ethic.”
Honestly, after I got my magnificent, green binder that indicated that I got in, my focus started to incline on “Party Time!” Frankly, I did use every second that I have left until Beast wisely by joyfully going out every day, attending every single party, and well, you get the idea. Basically, what I mean is that I procrastinated the remaining senior year, and sluggishly did all my class work. The outcome? When the unpredictable academic year came, it hit me hard. You do not want to wind up like that. Trust me.
West Point is well acknowledged for many reasons. One of the reasons is because the institution has such a fine academic system provided for every cadet. That is true. Academically, the tests and the homework you get are not that difficult in my opinion. They are fairly easy compared to AP tests you take in high school. The tough part is how you manage your time well. It is true that the work load isn’t too bad, but because your schedule is very stringent, you barely have sufficient amount of time to study and finish all your homework.
This institution not only focuses on academic, but on military and physical aspects as well. Everyone is obligated to join sports, do drills, participate in corp. assembly, mandatory dinner and etc. Because you have so many things to do and so many events to get involved in, if you do not know how to manage your time and completely lose that ability to maintain your work ethic, you won’t make it at West Point. So, finish strong until the end! Please do not slack off! If you keep working hard until the end, it will really pay off when the academic year starts after Beast.
This is an unforgettable education I feel very obliged to pass it on to the readers.

New Year has finally Arrived!

2009-01-02T18:34:00.000-08:00

Finally, 2008 has disappeared into the thin light, and the new, grand year has approached. I know many students have already received their nominations from congressman and filled their relatives’ home with rife of good news; I am also well aware that remaining students are madly biting their nails while they are anxiously waiting for their good news to come from the admission. Right now is not the time to be hyperventilating, and freaking out. I know so many cadets that got their acceptance letter one week prior to Cadet Basic Training. Remember, that might also happen to you. I know many of you would do anything to get into West Point, and completely neglect other colleges. Be sure to apply to other colleges as well, or definitely you are swinging for the fence! I was ignorant enough to take a huge risk and apply to one school, which is West Point. If I did not get my acceptance letter, I really had no back up schools for me to go to. Fortunately, I was able to receive my acceptance letter and matriculate to West Point. Anyways, good luck to everyone, and whether you get your acceptance or not, whatever path you take, as long as you make the best out of it, you will succeed.

One of MANY MANY Reasons Why You Should Go to West Point

2008-12-29T01:25:00.003-08:00

The grim economy has suppressed everyone into a tight budget and poured down anxiety and depression into much family’s home. Numerous stocks have plummeted, and countless people are being laid off every day. So, how do parents feel about the sheer college tuition fee that they might be facing in the future? Especially during the financial break-down? Well, you can answer it for me: dejected, depressed, worried, and I can go on and on with the list of negative feelings.
My point is that West Point is one of the best, if not, the greatest school in the world that offers free education if you are committed to play a role of officer in the army. On top of that, you get paid to get educated academically, physically and militarily so that you can become the most powerful officer in the army. You are free from dealing with a tremendous amount of debt from student loan! Over a million dollar worth of education is all being paid for by the government so that each West Point cadet can become a successful leader. Honestly, what college does this for and to you?
It is true that there will be numerous times where you will struggle and go through the toughest obstacles ever; it is true that you will also face risk, danger, tribulation and fear. If you think about it, the difficult route you take at West Point is so worth-while, after all, all the trainings and experiences will come in handy for the upcoming battle in the future. All these strenuous trainings are to prepare individually for the real-time, chaotic events happening in Afghanistan, Iraq or whatever places that need to be reconciled by the army. Everything you do at West Point is just worth it!
To keep this post short, all I’m saying is that if you do go to this school, money won’t even be an issue at all in your life. Just something to think about!

My Experience in Applying to West Point

2008-12-22T01:29:00.000-08:00

How did I carry the message across to Admission that West Point was the only school that was perfect for me? Honestly, the key to this long, arduous application process is that the quicker you get done, the better chance you get into getting accepted to West Point. My twin brother and I really worked together, and seriously worked on our application every day, consistently, so that we can send them as soon as possible. Because we needed nomination from our district congressman, we knew we had to stand out and really let the secretary in congressman’s office know who we are. What did we do? We were the first ones to turn in our congressman application, and probably called and visited her office every day. She was so familiar with our names and our faces that I just knew we had great chance of getting our nomination. We always dressed up nicely, clad in two-piece suit, and asked many questions about the application. The secretary really helped us a lot by giving us great advice, pointing out where we were lacking and where we were strong on. Honestly, I knew my brother would get in right away, because he had amazing academic score, and terrific physical score. My physical score was strong as well, but my SAT score was where I was really lacking. Also, my brother received his letter of assurance four months before I received mine. I did send numerous emails everyday to a Major who was in charge of California with admission to West Point. I let him know that although my academic score was a little low, my confidence and my mentality were bolder than anyone’s. I’m not sure if that had any effect on anything, but I knew that these messages I sent to him at least showed that I was a confident applicant, and had a strong desire for West Point. I was hoping that I would inspire the Admission in some way. I think I did because I was really shocked when I even got my letter of assurance. When I first saw my brother’s letter of assurance four months before I received mine, I thought my path to West Point was over. I was going through depression, and just disgusted life. One day, I decided to keep my head up and stay positive. I decided to wait patiently, and let the admission decide whether I deserve to go to West Point or not. I realized that it wasn’t the end of the world if I did not get my acceptance letter. Although I did not apply anywhere else except West Point, I still knew that I could succeed if I just strived on and not give up. Yes, I have to admit, it was a sublime moment when I saw my letter of assurance in the mailbox. I was jumping up and down and just screaming like a little girl with excitement. Anyways, good luck with your admission and don’t ever give up!

USMAPS

2008-12-21T01:52:00.001-08:00

Remember, if you do not get accepted to United States Military Academy, it is not the end of the world. Supposedly, the world ends in the year of 2012 just because doltish Mayan calendar stops in that year. That’s a whole different story. Anyways, going back to the important piece I was advising to applicants: Be sure to apply to USMAPS (United States Military Academy Prep School). Honestly, during my application process to West Point, I had zero, Zilch, knowledge on prep school. I heard about it, but I did not know if you attend USMAPS, it gives you a guaranteed path to legitimate West Point. Frankly, I thought people attend prep school because it gives them better chance to get into West Point. I was completely, utterly, wrong! Although you will be delayed one year, you will eventually take the path of West Point and be the most powerful, acknowledged officer in the world just like everyone else that have and are attending West Point. Numerous people told me going to prep school give you negative connotation to your name; that is absolutely absurd! I didn’t go to prep school but majority of the cadets in my Beast squad was from USMAPS. After inculcating the proper behavior and routines from these phenomenal cadets from USMAPS, I wanted to snap and really blame on myself for not researching on prep school. USMAPS prepares you for the upcoming challenge at Beast. If my roommate weren’t from USMAPS, I probably would not have survived even in one day. My roommate lectured me briefly but quickly of the necessary steps I need to take to get through Beast. He taught me pretty much everything and saved my butt from getting into more horrifying trouble. I might have finished Beast with little repercussion. On top of that, he told me cadets from USMAPS get stipend every two weeks, around $200. Plebes currently are receiving $175 every month. They get double the amount. Additionally, you get acquainted with the prep school cadets prior to entering Beast, so you do not have to fret over seeking new friends. I’m saying USMAPS should be your alternative path if you don’t get the acceptance letter and if you will do anything to get into West Point. My life would have been easier and I would have been more disciplined if I did go to USMAPS prior to entering Beast. Something to think about!

Sleeping in the Field

2008-12-17T17:03:00.000-08:00

It was very murky, wet, cold, and just unpredictably grim. I am talking about the jungle where we camped out. I despised the condition very much, but I couldn’t really bicker when everyone else was encountering the same difficulty, if not more.
We had our ruck filled with forty pounds worth of equipments, and ammunitions. It was too dark for us to keep marching on to the destination, so we decided to stop, and set a perimeter as if we were in a real battle zone. Each company had its own area where they were supposed to secure and protect. We were in the deep forest, up in the mountain, filled with clusters of trees and insects everywhere. This was all part of the training. Every company had a perimeter set up; one cadet with his or her M16 pointing his or her target at the sector that squad leader mandated to point at; we were basically in a circle. Everyone had his or her partner next to them, and basically we rotated every two hours or so on taking part on securing the base. Basically, everyone slept only a tad bit. Although we had very little amount of sleep, we were tense and alert at all times as if we were ready to engage the enemy when confronted.
When I did get a chance to sleep, I fell asleep right away; probably the moment I wrapped my body with poncho and wet weather gear, my body knocked out. When I woke up in the morning, it was probably the coldest weather I had to face in history. I am from California, so the coldest it gets there is around sixty degrees. My entire body was wet, and everything around me was wet due to destructible dew. Imagine yourself waking up with wet clothes worn, not a very pleasant sight. Anyways, I don’t want to get into full detail of everything, just because I want you to fully experience on your own.

Guide to get into West Point (by aprouddad)

2008-12-14T12:24:00.000-08:00

I came across another great post written by aprouddad from college discussion. I did not write any of this, as you can see, I quoted verbatim of what he wrote. Guide to get into West Point by aprouddad:

"1. USMA Admissions website. Read it. All of it. It tells you what they are looking for and how the admissions process works.

2. SLS. The online application will open soon (15 December according to USMA Admissions: Home). Apply as soon as you can. My son applied the first day and had his SLS acceptance by 15 January. SLS is a great way to learn more about the academy. Not everyone who goes is 100% sure they want to attend so it's not just for "candidates". You SLS application actually starts your USMA application. You will start getting mail from them especially if your stats look good. Don't worry if you are not selected for SLS. Remember, more people get into WP each year than get into SLS.

3. SAT/ACT. Start taking the tests NOW. Take the "with Writing" version (now required by USMA). Take both SAT and ACT. Some do better on one than the other. Take them as many times as you can. USMA "super scores" the test results. That means that not only will they take your best score, they will take your best sub-scores. My son took both and preferred the ACT. He eventually took the ACT 6 or 7 times inching his scores up a little each time.

4. CFA. Practice the Basketball throw. Information is at USMA Admissions: Apply to USMA: Prospectus: Steps to West Point: 6: Complete Testing. Did I mention that you should practice the Basketball throw... a lot?

5. Nominations. The admissions web site has a lot of good information about the nomination process. Applying for nominations is actually more complex than the USMA application process. Each Senator/Congressman has their own process. Some are online, some are not. Some require letters of recommendation. Some require interviews, some don't. Some will take the supporting information piecemeal, some want it all in one package. Some are helpful about letting you know when your file is complete, some are like a black hole unless you call and ask. Don't forget the VP nomination. My son was in JROTC. He applied for and received a JROTC nomination. That nomination came through on 17 Oct. Have not heard anything from the Senators/MOC yet. Most nomination applications do not open until the spring of your junior year. Deadlines will typically be Oct/Nov of your senior year. Give yourself plenty of time to round up those letters, etc.

6. Medical Exam. Once you reach a certain point in the application process, USMA will notify DoDMERB and they will contact you with information on how to schedule your exam. Get those exams completed as soon as possible.

7. Have a backup plan. No matter how good your stats look, you might not get in. If you want to got to WP, it's because you want to be an army officer. Right? If not, you don't want to go to WP. WP is a great choice but there are other ways to become an army officer. Apply for an ROTC scholarship. Apply to multiple schools that have ROTC programs. Pursue your backup options with the same seriousness that you pursue WP. My son went to SLS, loved it, passed the CFA, passed his medical, got an LOA, got the JROTC nomination and an Offer of Admission. AFTER all this, he suffered a hearing loss in his right ear and this might keep him from being able to go. Have a backup plan for not getting in WP. Have a backup plan for not getting an ROTC scholarship. Have a backup plan for not being able to serve in the military.You've got plenty of time. Just start taking things one step at a time and you'll do fine."

Guide to get into West Point (by aspen)

2008-12-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

I was just going through college discussion posts, and I came across great points made by aspen and aprouddad. This one is written by aspen, and the points aspen made are just too perfect for me to edit. So, I quoted everything, and posted here. Guide to get into West Point:

"The biggest misunderstanding that most people, including myself, had about the USMA application process is the role of the congressional nomination. While the nomination is required and takes some effort to obtain, it is less difficult to obtain than the acceptance offered by the USMA Admissions office. There are over 4000 nominations given each year but only about 1200 candidates accepted by the USMA Admissions Office. What I mean to convey is that getting an acceptance from the admissions office is more difficult than getting a nomination. I suggest you make sure you direct your resources accordingly.The summer program is now called the Summer Leadership Seminar. It's intended for candidates who have just completed their junior years. I believe you can begin applying for the SLS around January. It's a great program and should be attended by all candidates if possible.There is no longer an official early acceptance program program at USMA. I think the class of 2008 was the last class offered that option. However, the academy does offer letters of assurance to highly qualified candidates. These LOA's are equivalent to an early acceptance and are offered as early as July before your senior year. My unscientific survey of candidates receiving LOA's is that the "highly qualified candidate " has SAT scores of 1400+, top 10% class ranking, several varsity letters and some demonstrated school, sport or civic leadership experience. There are probably 200 or less LOA's offered each year, excluding recruited athletes.Major points to remember.

1.Apply early. This applies for SLS as well as the official application. The "early bird" may not always get the worm but it certainly has a better chance than the late bird.

2. Put a high priority of your SAT/ACT test scores. While your GPA is important, my personal opinion is that the SAT/ACT scores are of even greater importance. Target a minimum of 1200 but it's best if you can score 1300 and above.

3. Make sure you can medically qualify. The academies have strict medical requirements and will only give a limited number and scope of formal waivers. Find out early if you have a medical condition that will disqualify you or require a formal waiver. No point getting your hopes up for an appointment only to find out in your senior year that you can't qualify medically. Also if you need a waiver, you want to have as much lead time as possible to obtain it.

4.Keep physically active and fit. While USMA likes to see participation and excellence in team sports, it's not mandatory. However, being physically fit is mandatory. The requirements aren't complex. You must be proficient in running, situps and pushups. Begin now to build up your capabilities in those areas.

5. Keep your paperwork organized and follow up on outstanding items. There're a lot of pieces to the USMA application and nomination process. Since virtually everyone is doing it for the first time, it's easy to miss or forget a piece. I recommend making a timeline chart for all the steps along with the various paperwork associated with each step. My son (now a yearling), used an Excel spreadsheet to record and track all the paperwork. It was a lifesaver for him since he could, at a glance, identify if he was current with his paperwork. Equally important it allowed him to politely remind his teachers/school officials that certain recommendations had not yet been sent to USMA or the senators/congress member.

6. Find someone that has gone through the application process recently and talk with them. Check to see if there is a local USMA parents club. Why reinvent the wheel if you can benefit from the experience of someone who had done it already. Ideally, someone who has done it successfully.

7. Read the USMA website often, especially the admissions site. It's incredible how many candidates ask questions that are already answered in the USMA admissions website. More and more of the application process is being done on the internet so keep current with the website.

Hope this is helpful. Thanks for considering a career as a leader in our Armed Forces."

M16

2008-12-11T20:59:00.000-08:00

Ear plugs. Check!
Magazines. Check!
Eye pro-wear. Check!
And M16! Lock and load! Check!
This was the sublime moment I was eagerly waiting for. I did not know how much I would love my personal M16 until I got my dirty hands on it all day and every day. Every cadet gets to obtain his or her personal M16. You have it next to you, embraced, while you are sleeping, eating, marching, and so forth. Basically, it becomes one of you. Without your M16, you lose part of you. So, remember, keep your M16 with you at all times as if she is your personal lover. You would do it whatever it takes, and even put your life on the line to sacrifice for your lover. So treat your M16 that way. Because, the chain of command will try to sneak up on you while you are sleeping and try to take her from you. If they do somehow get their hands on your M16, you will face consequences for it. As long as you have the M16 wrapped around your body, and the straps latched on to my belt, you are good to go! Oh, and you also get to name your M16. I thought they were joking around when the chain of command told us to name our M16, but they even stated without hesitation, “It’s not funny. Name your M16. It stays with you wherever you go from now on.”
So, I named my M16 after one of my favorite songs, “My Boo.” But I shortened and dubbed it as “Boo.” Yup, I know it’s pretty lame, but she’s mine! Military takes this seriously!
On my next remaining posts, I will be talking about all my experience in the fields. Anyways, you get the idea of how critical M16 is to your presence!

Personal Training in the Morning

2008-12-07T09:15:00.000-08:00

Bam! Bam! Bam!
Three powerful slams on the door by our chain of command definitely woke us up.
My head rises immediately with tremor. I rapidly glance at the time on the clock. It read “5:30AM”
“Wake up New Cadets! Wake up!”
My roommate and I quickly got off the bed, and we swiftly took off our clothes and changed it to Personal Training uniform. PT uniform is basically just plain black training shorts with dull gray shirt along with our last name engrained on the left chest. Oh, by the way, your first name will be never used during Beast. We also had to wear our white plastic belt that goes diagonally around our body.
Every morning was our personal training time. More like one of the toughest physical workout, but very rewarding at the same time. Depending on how you performed on the running portion on the APFT, they will put you on fastest (black group), fast (gray group), normal (gold group), or slow (white group). Because I was very close to max the running portion on APFT, I was put on the fast running group, or also dubbed as “gray” group. Every other morning, we basically run two to three miles; also, the running route changes every time as well.
Because I love physical workout, and facing new challenges, morning run was actually a very rewarding experience for me. I ran as if my life was on the line on every morning run. I consistently improved every time, and my endurance started to ratchet up like the Apple stock that soared when the first “ipod” was released.
On every route, there will be at least one steep hill you will have to struggle and really fight your weak mentality side to overcome the difficulty. Don’t be one of those new cadets that fall out whenever the hill comes up, but try to be the one that leads and stays in front of everyone. You don’t want to be that sore loser that doesn’t finish until the end. I mean you will never be forced to run in the morning like this when Beast is over. So why not take advantage of it and really take it seriously and put your heart into it?
On the days that you don’t do morning run is when you go to the vast field next to the railroad where it is filled with various obstacles and pull-ups bars, and basically go through four obstacles three or four times every time. Pretty simple, right? The four obstacles are pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups, and dips. I really liked this workout more than running.
Anyways, this is just a heads-up to all the future cadets that will be attending West Point next year!

The Gas Chamber

2008-12-02T18:27:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you this. The gas chamber, a very effective contrivance, completely conquers all the other obstacles that you will have to go through during Beast. Army’s brilliant device, or also dubbed as a torture chamber, tends to put everyone into fear, is something that every cadet has to go through. Don’t be afraid! I can guarantee you, you will live. No one has ever died off inhaling gruesome chemicals that are trapped in a cubicle room. But, I have seen various people spewing out their scrumptious lunch they ate twenty minutes prior to entering gas chamber.

Honestly, gas chamber did not daunt me at all somehow. I just thought it would be a simple “in-and-out” procedure. We had all the special protective gears completely covering our bodies, including the most important gear known as a gas mask. When I first saw a very small building made with gray bricks, I thought we were entering a stark prison filled with corrosive chemicals that would tear us apart. Just by assessing that statement I made, you can tell I have seen plenty of “X-File” episodes.

Anyways, when it was my squad’s turn to enter the notorious gas chamber, I saw some cadets actually freaking out and trembling in fear. We took one step at a time, and finally our entire squad entered the little cubicle room, which completely sealed off the air from the outside as soon as the doors were shut with a “thud.” I did not feel any different at all from being outside on fresh air than staying in this little room with corrosive gas. But, that was because I had protective gears completely shutting off from acrid gas entering the inner part of the suit. One of the guys in charge had us do jumping jack and some neck roll for a minute to get adjusted to the environment. He also told us to take off the gas mask for couple seconds and put it back on after clearing out the gas in the mask. That part was pretty simple and harmless. But the hard part hasn’t even started yet.

There were several writings on the wall. They read “Name, birthdates, where you are from” and this long, intricate chemical word that no one can pronounce. Basically, our objective was to take off the mask and state your name, birth dates, where you are from and pronounce the entire complicated word in complete sentence or they won’t let us leave. Sounds pretty simple right? Wrong. It’s harder than it looks. I was the last person in line, and the more people I saw struggling, coughing, and crying while they were trying to pronounce the last word, it started to slowly put me in a frightened mode.

Thus, my turn has finally arrived. I quickly took off my mask, and then rapidly said my name, birthdate and where I was from. Suddenly, I started coughing and it felt like my entire lung was clogging up. My eyes started to sting so much that only streams of tears started to slowly drip down to my mouth. I probably had to repeat that last, impossible word three times to get it down perfectly. One second without mask felt like a year in a boiling water- not a good analogy, but you get the point. Anyways, as soon as they released me, snot in my nose started to drip down like waterfall, and tears from my eyes started to stream down like, uhh, waterfall (lol). They had us flapping our arms like a bird so that all the chemicals that were stuck to our body can be eradicated. After they had us do that for a while, I finally felt like a normal, happy camper. It definitely remedied my cold.

So, good luck on your future gas chamber journey!

First Two Weeks!

2008-11-30T19:52:00.000-08:00

First two weeks is just distressing, tormenting, unpleasant, excruciating, and .. yeah you get the idea. Everyone will be going through physical and mental ordeal in those first two weeks. I mean, of course, the intensive schedule won’t end until the Beast is over, but what I’m saying is after first two weeks of dreadful workout and drills, you will probably be accustomed to the system of Beast. And it is those first two weeks when you start to become homesick and depressed. Just remember that you won’t be the only one who will feel like that, so don’t let the hazing and scolding by your chain of command bring you down. It is all mental game. Every day, you have to pretty much wake up at 5 in the morning, and every second after that will be filled with something to do. The taps is at 10:30pm, so you do get enough time to rest your body for the upcoming ordeal. You will instantly fall asleep as soon as you wrap yourself with a warm gray blanket, because your body is exhausted from non-stop action. Just remember, expect the worst in those first two weeks, but know that once you overcome it, then you are on the right path. You will feel wonderful after you successfully finish Beast. Just know that you will obtain some sort of awards or just pure satisfaction once you complete Beast.

Learn How to Shine Shoes!

2008-11-27T17:24:00.000-08:00

Be sure to watch this video to learn how to shine shoes. Honestly, I am probably the worst shoes shiner, but thanks to my roommate, who is probably one of the best shoes shiner, I was able to pass all the inspection! So if you do not want to get chewed out by a chain of command, be sure to learn how to shine your shoes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GO7_zHM9_Vo&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQU-8AN4R6U&feature=related

http://artofmanliness.com/2008/07/29/how-to-get-the-best-shoe-shine/

Chaplain's Time

2008-11-25T12:52:00.000-08:00

Something positive about America is that the constitution lets anyone practice his or her religion without any disruption. Even in the world of military, they tolerate religious freedom.

During Beast, you will get your opportunity once every week to go to church or a place based upon your religion and denominations. For us, it was every Wednesday, and we were divided into groups that fall into our religion. I believe the groups were dissected into Protestants, Catholics, Mormons, and Muslims. If there were more, please do forgive me! Anyways, Wednesday will be your favorite day out of all the days because you get to go to church at night and aggregate with your friends. Yes, this event tops Mass Athletics. They provide you enormous amount of treats for you such as brownies, cookies, chips, cakes, and sodas. This will be the only time you are tolerated to eat these sweet boodles and junks. So what would you do when you have been absent without sodas and cookies for a long time? Of course you would instantly grab as many cookies as you can and just stuff them in your mouth. That is what everyone pretty much did; including me. I believe chaplain’s time started after first two weeks of Beast. And believe me, you will be always hungry during Beast because you are constantly running and working hard. On top of that, you finally get to practice your faith and relieve your gruesome stress. I have only been to Protestant service so I don’t know what treats other religion service provides for you, but I heard Catholic service provides more boodles than the Protestant service. I believe there are more Catholics here at West Point than Christians.

But my point is, be sure to participate in Chaplain’s time. Some people actually just stay in their dorm and start writing letters to their loved ones, but I mean letters don’t give you good food like Chaplain’s time. You will be jealous to see your roommate with full stomach filled with cookies and other good junks. You don’t want that to happen. So be sure to take advantage of Chaplain’s time!

1st Detail and 2nd Detail

2008-11-23T23:51:00.000-08:00

Beast consists of two different components: First detail and second detail. Beast in my year was 7 weeks long. First detail was the first four weeks during Beast and second detail was basically the remaining weeks. So, the question is, what is the difference between first detail and second detail?

From my observation, first detail was pretty much learning all the fundamentals of “how to be a cadet.” Basically, the first four week teaches us how the structure works at West Point, how to behave and react towards upperclassmen and officers, how to read ranks and insignia, what uniform to wear and basically how to follow a leader. In second detail, majority of the times we were on the field going through combat procedures, ruck marching, handling all sorts of weapons, and pretty much gaining insights on how the system works in the battle field. Second detail was more physical in contrast to first detail. First detail was all mental game; chain of command will spew out all sorts of invective, and negative comments at you, and your mission is to overcome that without retaliating with emotions or physical action. I know I shouldn’t say this but honestly, I really enjoyed second detail because of my great ardor for handling weapons. I really felt powerful when I handled 50 cal on one of the courses; throwing grenades and the aftermath impulsive explosion kept me alive and enthusiastic as well. Many cadets despised going to the field because sleeping on the wet jungle was, excuse my language, “pain in the ass.” And for those last three weeks, we were always on Army Combat Uniform. I actually felt like a warrior and a soldier in those three weeks. Shooting targets and making decisions under pressure really taught me valuable lessons. I’m not going to get into details anymore than this, because I want you to experience on your own although I did expose a lot of secrets about Beast. Enjoy!

Be sure to Get a Pair of Sturdy, Good Boots!

2008-11-23T22:47:00.000-08:00

You will be endlessly walking, marching, climbing, sprinting.. basically you will be using your tired feet everyday throughout the entire Beast. So, why not get a pair of expensive, sturdy, and durable boots? Trust me, they will pay off. I was so glad that my parents bought me a pair of comfortable and sturdy boots for me. Although they were expensive, they really paid off when it came down to ruck marching. You will need them even during academic years. I suggest all the future cadets that will be attending glorious Beast to purchase a pair of good boots.
Here are some good sites:

http://www.militaryclothing.com/

http://www.patriotsurplus.com/

You can pretty much google it and find myriads of sites that sell good pair of ACU boots.

Or you can just drive to the actual military base (like I did) and buy a good pair there too! One note, I went with my friend's dad who is a SGT. You cannot enter the military base unless you are with a person that has a military id.

Counseling

2008-11-21T04:53:00.000-08:00

I am grateful that they provided counselor for every company. You have an access to a counselor’s office whenever you want. There will be many times when you will be depressed, dejected, forlorn, and really disgusted with your life because of what you will be going through during Beast. I am obliged that I was in such a great squad filled with bold, strong mentality people. If they did not motivate me and lifted my spirit up, probably even counseling would not have been sufficient for me to continue on with my journey in Beast.

Anyways, going back to counseling; whenever you want to get counseled, you can ask you squad leader if he or she can take you to a counselor or make an appointment. Normally, squad leader will immediately take you to a counselor. Counseling, for me at least, was a huge relief for me. As soon as you entered the room with a very comfortable couch and the moment the door is closed, you will be able to finally talk freely and articulate your emotion and feeling to your counselor. During Beast, basically you have no freedom to talk to your peers and friends; maybe your roommate, but that’s about it. You don’t have to cup your hands when you are in the counseling room or do any other mandatory Beast procedure. You are basically back to being a civilian when you start your discourse with your counselor.

I really liked my counselor. Her job was to basically neither convince you to stay or leave, but to listen profoundly and just respond in a manner where you can be comforted. I probably had counseling once every week at least. I pretty much asked her about how resignation process worked, and appropriately told her what my perspective was towards Beast.

So, when you are lugubrious, depressed or dejected, feel free to immediately get counseled by a counselor. Don’t think that you are the only person who is getting counseled. At least two people from my squad were getting counseled too during Beast. Just because you are getting counseled doesn’t mean that you are mentally wrong or anything. It is a great way to relieve all the stress and have a great banter with your counselor. Roger!

Resignation Process

2008-11-20T19:37:00.000-08:00

Because I went through resignation process during Beast, I do have sufficient amount of knowledge on how the resigning process works. First of all, let me give you a heads up. Every single person, besides prior service cadets and majority of USMAP cadets, will have at one point a thought of resigning due to great amount of tribulation and adversity. That is the whole point of Cadet Basic Training. It’s supposed to be tough, rigorous, time constraining, and not fun! As long as you have positive attitude, and have a fierce mentality, you can definitely get through Beast like there was no tomorrow. But, because I didn’t have those qualities, I struggled every day. On top of that, I kept making doltish mistakes over and over again, and that caused more turbulence in my life at Beast. Chain of command definitely kept their eagle eyes on me at all times and of course made me a dejected cadet at all times. Although I knew that someone or more than one person from different company during Beast was probably going through difficult or worse time than me, but I disregarded that thought and decided to start my resignation process.

That was a huge, fatal mistake. Let me emphasize that. You do not want to try to resign during beast, unless you are one hundred and ten percent sure that you want to really leave this place forever. Think about it. You are in the military now. You have joined the military family. Do you think it’s that easy to separate from your linked family? Especially when the government put great amount of money and time to prepare all these training, equipments, benefits, and everything else just for you. There are thousands of people who want to be in your shoe. Think about it. So, they are going to do whatever it takes to convince you to stay here, and make the resignation process as long and as rigorous as possible.

This is how resignation process works. You have to get interviewed from all your chain of command, and then the TACS, and then so on. That is not very fun, and you don’t get interviewed one day at a time. They get to choose. On top of that, during resignation process, you still have to do what everyone else is doing. You don’t get to just relax in your room just because you started the resignation process. Nothing is changed, except that resignation process has begun. You still have to wake up early in the morning, and you still have to struggle and go through tribulation like everyone else. Resignation process takes about two to three weeks. So by the time the resignation process is done, basically you are more than half way done with Beast. And that makes you want to think, “I came this far, so why should I quit now? I managed to get through this much. I shouldn’t quit now.” Then, that is when you reconsider and tell the chain of command that you have changed your mind and want to proceed with Beast. Pretty clever, right? Very sly, but really, they made the resignation process in that manner so that you can reconsider, and think over again. After you return all the issued items, they are going to send you to a separate barrack from your Beast Company where it is filled with the ones that are resigning like you. At that point, you can pretty much do whatever you want until the departing time.

But my point is, if you do want to resign, I recommend you to resign during Academic year. At least you took all that training and discipline with you; everything you have learned would be with you all your life. On top of that, you can tell people that you have accomplished Beast portion, instead of telling them that you quit in the middle of Beast. Just my advice.

Mass Athletics

2008-11-19T06:42:00.000-08:00

So what is mass athletics? Probably, will be and is, one of your favorite times during Beast in first detail. Beast is divided into two segments: first four week is considered as 1st detail, and the remaining four weeks is known as 2nd detail. I will be explaining profoundly about each detail later on different blog. Anyways, going back to mass athletics, everyday you will be able to participate either in company sports or try out for club or division one sports team. There will be numerous poles with signs of different sports bolted on the marching field. You will be able to try out for different sport every day depending on what your strength is. Some people just participate in company sports, because they will be able to compete with their squad leaders periodically. That is their opportunity to retaliate from all the hazing and scolding from squad leaders by showing their athletic abilities. Mass athletics is definitely your time to finally unite with your friends and have a great, relieving time. If mass athletics did not exist, I wouldn’t have survived at all in beast. I just went to sports that my friends went as much as possible because it was really difficult to see them throughout the entire beast especially when everyone is distributed into different company.

We, pretty much, went to basketball since the bus takes us to the gym which is far away from the barracks. We were able to finally have a great banter together, and help each other at that point. We sat on the bleachers, and just talked rather than playing basketball. They let you do that. Sometimes, the upperclassmen weren’t even there to supervise the plebes, so we were able to take a good one hour nap on the bleachers.

But, if you really want to join club or core squad sports, or know that you have the ability to make the team, be sure to try out and do your best. Many cadets knew that they wouldn’t make the team, so they just went to play for fun rather than competing for a slot. Mass athletics definitely, by far, helped me to relieve my stress and motivated me to work even harder.

Ruck Marching

2008-11-18T08:49:00.000-08:00

Some people considered ruck marching as a doltish drudgery. Some new cadets found it quit challenging but very rewarding. It really all depends on your mentality. For me, at least, I thought ruck marching was one of the greatest workout ever. I mean who in the world would carry about half or third of your weight (depends on how heavy you are ^^ ) on his or her shoulder and go through the toughest route ever?! Although it was exhausting just treading on muddy ground with ten pounds bucket on your head, I felt glorious and it was one of my greatest, sublime moment when I reached the end point. I felt like I have defeated completely my weak mentality and the foes that were trying to slow me down.

I have to tell you but at every ruck march, many cadets fell out from the squad due to enormous pressure and adversity that they could not overcome. When you have nothing to do, I want you to try to walk around the neighborhood or for about an hour to a designated random place with plethora of junks in your backpack. That would be a great preparation for upcoming ruck march you will face in the future. It hit me hard when 10 miles ruck march approached on a very bleak, cold and rainy day. It really felt like there was no finish point at all! Basically, it’s mentally challenging rather than physically challenging. What really pushed me forward was whenever I saw a short female new cadet pushing forward with a ruck twice as big as their bodies. That really pumped me up. I really give respect for the females that conquered Beast.

Anyways, don’t ever fall out in the middle of ruck marching. Everyone can do it. It’s basically you vs your mentality. You got it, no doubt about it!

Validation Test (during Beast)

2008-11-15T10:31:00.001-08:00

Before I got my admission to West Point, all my focus geared towards on getting good score on particular tests that West Point Admission Center highly scrutinizes at. Because the application did not require your SAT subject scores and AP test scores, I completely neglected them. I realized that it hit me hard when the validation test came.

Everyone is obligated to take validation tests during Beast. Meaning, if you did get 5 on any AP test, which is the highest score you can get, then you automatically validated that particular subject. Let me give you my word of advice. “Try to validate chemistry.” It makes your life so much easier here. I know so many cadets here who validated Chemistry and are obtaining one of the highest GPA in class due to more leisure time they get from it. They use that time wisely to focus on studying for other classes. Actually, try to validate as many subjects as you can. (But remember, on certain subjects, even if you did receive 5 on the AP test, you are still obligated to take that class. Such as English, they will put you on “Literature,” which I say is a lot tougher than regular Composition class.) Validating one subject will definitely help your stringent plebe year. If you are transferring from different college, getting an A in class is considered as validating.

Let’s say you get 4 on the AP tests, but you know that you have ample amount of knowledge on your particular subject, and are confident to validate it. When the validation test comes up, if you score very high on chemistry or any other subjects along with 4 on your AP test, you can validate that subject. So, don’t give up just because you didn’t get 5 on the AP test.
I know all you are worried about is whether you will get your admission to West Point. But, also focus on the AP tests as well. Even if you don’t get your admission, you will be able to validate a lot of classes at other colleges. Just something to think about to make your life easier.

Marching Cadence

2008-11-07T07:38:00.000-08:00

When you get to Beast, you will do inifinite amount of marching every day. And while you and your company or squad is marching, you will be proclaiming and shouting cadence in unison. I just thought it would be helpful for you guys to be familiar with marching cadence now so that you guys can have more comfortable time saying the cadence when Beast approaches.
I'm not saying you should memorize them, or focus on them more than anything else. I just thought it would be nice to look through them when you are bored or have nothing to do.
Anyways, here are the sites I listed below that you can click on that would give you candences that I heard over and over again during Beast.

1. https://www.nh.ngb.army.mil/Recruiting/Marching%20Cadences.htm
( every single cadence in this site is recited during Beast)

2. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hXECGyjTvc
Air Borne Ranger Cadence on video

3. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rYMw2WMA2w
Momma, momma, can't you see

4. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtyEUFhzxJs&feature=related
Old King Cole

5. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQg6YZQOmak&feature=related
Down By the River

6. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1e-Wvb8gFA&feature=related
Pick Up Your Weapon/ Patch

7. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACje5DrLEmw
Hail O Infantry

8. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX6uywRrENU
All The Way

Everything listed above are cadences that I heard many times during Beast. There are more cadences, but I couldn't find in video forms, but just familiarizing the ones listed above will pump you up and get you ready for marching!

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Many Little Mistakes I made

2008-10-30T06:05:00.000-07:00

I made tons of mistakes at Beast. I mean TONS! In the beginning, I was always nervous and could not handle anything under pressure. But, as I moved further with my journey during Beast, my confidence, leadership skills, and handling under pressure got much better. But let me list out the mistakes that I made during Beast, so that you won't make the same mistake.

1. Not tucking in my boot laces (Be sure to check your entire uniform before you walk out the door. Check your roommate and have your roommate check your uniform as well!)

2. Velcros or collars all jacked up (this is another uniform issue. Just double check before the formation)

3. Shining your shoes ( I was horrible at this. If you are adept at shining shoes, then you are good to go)

4. Having eyes and head straight forward during formation (this is all military bearing; I was never good at standing still in one place. But you will get used to it.)

5. Keeping myself awake during briefing or PMEE class (try to have a mini notebook and a pen with you, so that you can distract yourself from sleeping by drawing or writing something)

6. I was terrible at regurgitating Knowledge (Okay, I am really good at memorizing. But the problem was, I tend to forget everything I memorized in couple days. I have short term memory. So, when the cadres asked me a specific knowledge from week 1, I completely blanked out. Don't let that happen to you. Be sure to keep looking back on old knowledge as well)

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Money

2008-10-30T05:29:00.001-07:00

The rule is that you are only supposed to carry 100 dollars cash during Beast. Parents, be sure to give your son or daughter 100 dollars cash and on top of that either your debit card or your son or daughter's personal debit card. They will be stopping by Cadet store a lot during Beast, and they will be buying a lot of things there. Although, many of the hygiene kits are issued, they might not be sufficient for them. For me, at least, I spent more than 100 dollars at Beast. It's because I bought vitamins, first aid kits, shaving cream, body wash and all the other accessories that I didn't pack before Beast. Some of the products West Point issue are not authentic at all. So it is crucial that your son or daughter carries additional credit or debit card with them for emergency issues. Because many of the cadets had to write letters to their parents notifying them that more money is needed. Trust me on this one. I am writing everything from my personal observation, experience, and from other people's feedbacks.

Things You Must Prepare

2008-10-26T12:33:00.000-07:00

1.) Not laughing
Upperclassmen will be all over you basically 24/7, and one phrase you will hear constantly is "Smirk off." Meaning, do not smile or laugh no matter what the circumstance is. Many times, there are situations where cadres just make you laugh by doing stupid stuff in front of your squad, or they just bring up random jokes. There was this one guy in my squad who had the best military bearing, and I asked him how he constrained himself from laughing all the time. He said, during the summer, he and his cousin were standing one foot apart, facing eachother, with water in their mouth. Basically, you just stare at eachother the whole time, trying your best not to laugh or water will burst from your mouth. I thought that was pretty clever. Military barrier is really important during Beast, then you will get a good military grade. So, once again, do not laugh, or smile! Learn how to do that.

2.) Get used to sleeping around 10:30pm and waking up at 5 in the morning.
I mean, of course, you will eventually get adjusted to waking up early during Beast. For me, at least, I had really difficult time keeping myself awake throughout the whole day. Especially during the briefing in the auditorium, or in class, my eyes could not keep themselves open at all. I got in trouble many times keeping myself awake. For a whole month, try not take a nap. Just have a normal sleep, but do not ever take a nap. I think that would be a great training for Beast. That way, you will get used to keeping yourself awake the entire day, everyday. You can do it!

3.) Doing number 2 in a minute. (Taking a dump)
Honestly, you have very limited time to use the restroom. I mean I already have been trained to use the restroom in a minute because I was in the football team for four years in high school. So, if you usually take your time in the bathroom when you do number 2, try to practice taking care of your business as soon as possible. Just a tip of advice :)

Little things you must know and prepare:
1.) You must always cup your hands at all times during Beast. Except when you guys enter the Academic building. If you don't know what cupping hands means, basically you make a fist with thumbs covering your fingers. Upperclassmen will keep an eye on your hands at all times if you have your hands closed like you are ready to fight.

2.) 3 to 5 chews when you eat
I really struggled on this specifically, because I love eating, and I love eating A LOT! When you are on the table, the table commadant (your squad leader) will keep his or her eyes on everyone's mouth throughout the entire meal. They will scold, yell, and fix you so that you will never forget to have 3 to 5 chews. I'm not saying you should do this everytime when you eat, but just like when you eat like hamburger or anything, try at least once or twice every day. Just so that it won't be a big deal or surprise when it comes to Beast.

3.) Hit every corner when you walk in the barracks, and angle your arms 90 degrees whenever you walk up or downstairs.
This is as important as keeping 3 to 5 chews whenever you eat. I mean, of course, they will yell at you no matter what you do, but hitting every corner and angling your arms 90 degrees are very crucial factors that you should keep in mind. Honestly, after Beast, your habit of angling your arms won't go away until for a while.

4.) Greeting!
Very, very important! This is what everyone struggled on, except for those who went to USMAP prep school and prior service cadets. Because I grew up in civilian world like everyone else, I had no idea how to read the rank or the insignia engrained on upperclassmen's cover, jackets, shoulders, and etc. I had hard time distinguishing between Firsties (Seniors) and Cows (Juniors). Most of the times, I forget what color insignia Firties had and vice versa. To make your life easier, I will break it down for you.

Cows have 2 bars. Firsties have 3 bars.
Cows have white insignia on their covers. Firsties have black insignia on their covers.

It is that simple, but because you are under pressure at all times, you will forget. Just keep those in mind.

Knowledge

2008-10-25T07:36:00.000-07:00

During Beast, everyone will receive a small knowledge book filled with military and West Point information. Some of the information that are in the book have to be memorized verbatim (word for word) and some, you just have to understand the information. All the information is divided into seven weeks so that each week, everyone has to pass 1st week of knowledge, and then so forth. They are fairly easy, but to make your life easier, I suggest you to start memorizing some important knowledge now. Just getting a head start will give you easier time at beast.

Start Memorizing:
1.) Alama Mater- it's in the site
2.) National anthem- it's in the site
3.) Rank and Insignia- http://www.defenselink.mil/specials/insignias/officers.html
4.) Schofield's Definition of Discipline- it's in the site

http://www.west-point.org/academy/malo-wa/inspirations/buglenotes.html <-- Pretty much has all the knowledge Click on the site above and there will be a list of knowledge. It's not a complete list of knowledge in the knowledge book, but many of the important knowledge are listed in that site. There are knowledge in there are not included in the knowledge book, so you don't have to memorize those: 1.) Legends and Traditions of the Corps 2.) Leadership Principles 3.)Black, Gold, Grey 4.) Away we go 5.) The Locomotive Yell (USMAPS) 6.) USMAPS Purpose and Mission 7.) The Soldier's Oathtaken upon entering the United States Army 8.) Definitions of the Tenets of the Honor Code 9.) "Cadetiquette" 10.) Army Blue 11.) The Cadet Oathtaken upon entering the United States Military Academy I suggest you to at least memorize 2 knowledge a week from this point. Guarantee you, you will be able to pass of all the knowledge faster than anyone.

APFT

2008-10-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

They test you on:

1. Push-ups
2. sit-ups
3. 2 miles run

On the second day of Beast, you will be taking your APFT Test. Honestly, everyone will be out of shape for this APFT Test, unless you are an overachiever and have prepared for this test prior to Cadet Basic Training. Over 50 percent of the new cadets failed the APFT test on the first try. Most people fail on 2 miles run because of the lack of adjustment of their body to the weather and environment of West Point. Although I was very athletic, it was very difficult for me to max the run. Unless you are in Cross country or track, just try to build your endurance during the break. I know it's going to be very difficult trying to build endurance on your own free time over the break especially when you know that break is time to enjoy and have fun. But it will help a lot if you just run 1 mile every other day, or even everyday. Honestly, as soon as I got my acceptance letter, my mentality was "since I'm going to have ZERO fun at Cadet Basic Training, I'm going to use every second of my break to enjoy and party!"
Well, it really hit me hard when APFT came up. I was lagging pretty much throughout the entire route on the running portion.
Oh, and be sure to do at least 40 to 50 push-ups everyday, then you will have no problem maxing the push-up portion. Same goes with sit-ups. Just do push-ups and sit-ups consistently everyday, and you will rock the world at APFT.

Power of Friendship

2008-10-14T10:25:00.000-07:00

Something that made me realize during Beast was that that the friends that you create here is uncomparable to the friends you create in the outside world. The bond you create here is just so strong that you will realize that peers around you will put their lives on the line to save you. You become close friends with everyone because you guys all go through pain, suffering, mourning, sickness, loneliness, and homesickness. You see others going through exact same thing as you do, if not, more. Every obstacle that you go through during beast is in a way where you cannot accomplish the mission unless you work together as a team, or squad. There is no one person mission during Beast. Everything you do here is together. You shower together, you eat together, you do everything together. I promise you, you will create friends that will defend you for the rest of your life. This is a reward you get during Beast.

Power of Letters during Beast

2008-10-14T10:24:00.000-07:00

Just to let you know future plebes, letters are more precious than money or gold or anything in the world during Beast. Well, at least that's what it feels like, because beast does a phenomenal job on giving that constringent effect. So, as soon as you get your P.O. Box number from West Point, make like 1000 copies that have your P.O.Box number and hand it to everyone you know and every single one of your friends (if you do have one). Oh, and definitely, to your girlfriend, or boyfriend. Honestly, letters saved my life. Parents, please write a letter and send it to your son or daughter's mailbox prior to R-day so that letters can reach there before your son or daughter checks the mail box. Because, it feels horrible when you check your mail box for the first time and all you see is empty, gloomy hole. I saw numerous people getting heart broken, and I don't want you to make that same mistake. And be sure to have someone write a letter everyday. Probably, your parents is the best option. Because, you get your mailbox key issued around 4th day of first week. After that, you and your company will get an opportunity to check the mailbox everyday. It feels glorious to see a letter sitting in the mailbox just for you. I promise you. Be sure to have someone write a letter everyday. It will benefit you big time, mentally. It will definitely regain your hope.

Meals

2008-10-14T10:23:00.007-07:00

Like every other college, you will get breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I don't know about you, but I find food here at West Point quite delicious and scrumptuous. Now, some of the things I might tell you really depend on what company you are in, and who your cadre is. Because, I was lucky enough to have a cadre who did not really care about table etiquette. As far as I know, table etiquette during Beast is quite crucial. Every mistake you make, you will get yelled at, and corrected on right off the bat. Because, the tables around me were being screamed and yelled at throughout the whole meal every day. Of course, they will teach you the table etiquette, but to make your life easier, let me straighten things out for you.
You will enter the Mess Hall with your company and proceed to the designated table. Table sits 10 people: 4 on each side, and 1 on each end. It's basically a long rectangular table. On one end of the table, where all the hot sauce, barbeque sauce, and spices are languished on, is where your cadre is going to sit. Then the rest of the sits are for the new cadets (you). So as soon as you get to the table, you stand behind the chair, standing at "parade rest." Parade rest means you stand with your feet apart about 1 foot apart. And your hands behind your back, above your butt, one hand over the other making like a butterfly. Then, the PA system or speakers will announce "Regiment. Attention!" That's when everyone in the mess hall go back to stand attention, meaning feet together, head and eyes straight forward, and cupped fist on each hip. Then, couple seconds later, PA system will say "Take Seats." Then, that is when everyone take seats. Those who don't have duties must immediately have hot dog fold napkin on their laps; the folded side must be facing towards you. There should be a plate with a picture of crest on the edge of the plate. Turn it so that crest of the plate is facing straight up. Then put the knife and fork on top right of the plate, but don't cover the crest. Set them so that they are diagonal. Knife has to be on top of fork. You are all set, and just keep staring at the crest at all times while you are waiting for three table duty people to finish their duties. Cold beverage corporal sits on the other end of the table (opposite side of your cadre). On Cold beverage's left sits the gunner. And the right of cold beverage coporal sits the hot beverage corporal.

R-day (Reception Day)

2008-10-14T10:22:00.001-07:00

Reception Day is basically your first glorious day of Beast. It is a day when you skedaddle from your parents and peers back home (if they did come along with you to West Point on Reception Day). You will say your last farewell to your folks and after that, well, that is when the party begins. Basically, the upperclassmen will forcibly, and roughly take you to the next level, and make your day very miserable. Let me emphasize something before I go any further on explaining about the Reception Day. Be sure to bring only one bag of items to R-day. You will have a agonizing time if you do bring more than one bag. Withour further ado, let me begin. On Reception day, you will get majority of the things issued. You will get a gargantuous flight bag that is as big as you, and you have to carry that around basically the whole day. You will get to each issue point, and get necessary things issued. As you approach to each issue point, your bag will get heavier, and your shoulders will sizzle like an egg on a frying pan. While you are in line, you have to bring up your handy dandy knowledge book up to your face, and start passing off knowledge. Those of you who don't know anything about knowledge book, it basically contains simple concepts and knowledge on military and West Point. You have to memorize and understand the concept of each knowledge. Once you have done that, you recite it to your cadre or leader, and he or she will sign off the knowledge you passed off. On the first day, it will be quite hard to focus on memorizing knowledge especially when there are numerous cadres that will be yelling at you at top of their lungs. But, you will get used to it later on. Then, you will change into beautiful white over gray and participate in the parade for your fantastic folks who have come with you to West Point. When you do walk in formation during parade and see civilians along the sidewalk cheering for you, you will feel powerful and glorious. I really enjoyed parade. And, of course, right after parade is over, another battle with your cadres will thus begin. There you go. Not too bad.

Items you should bring to CBT (for guys)

2008-10-13T20:43:00.000-07:00

Bring (specifically for guys):

1. Under Armour (Crucial! They have to be black though. Be sure to bring at least 4 or more)
2. Shaving cream/razor/ extra blades
3. lighter
4. photos with frame (Trust me. When you feel upset, those pictures will come in handy. I promise you)
5. List of phone numbers of your friends/family/anyone you want to call
6. Chapsticks (buy a lot)
7. 100 mile green duct tape
8. long white socks (From costco or anywhere)
9. 100 dollars cash in your wallet, and extra money stored in your debit card (every week or so you will get to stop by Cadet Store to purchase anything you need)
10. Gel sole (Crucial! Especially for your black shoes!)
11. Neosporin/ icy hot
12. Hand sanitizer (considered as gold in beast. That's how important it is)
13. nail clippers
14. Sports watch (Vital!! You need to get one. Just buy like a 5 dollars watch at Wal-mart. You will regret it if you don't buy one)
15. Q-tips
16. Good Shampoo (they issue shampoo, but honestly, it's like one of the worst shampoos in the world)
17. Boxers
18. toothbrush
19. Bandaids
20. Cleansing pads

Do Not Bring*:

1. Civilian clothes
2. electronic equipments (except your cell phone)
3. books (you won't have time to read)
*I'm telling you not to bring these items, because on R-day (which is the first day of Beast) you will have to carry around everything you brought. Trust me, it's really pain in the ass. Do not bring more than one bag worth of things. Just one bag is good enough. On R-day, you will be basically carrying half of your weight for many hours. Besides, you can have your parents or anyone to send these items later or you can go back home during break and take those back to your dorm.

What is Cadet Basic Training?

2008-10-13T20:10:00.000-07:00

Cadet basic training, also known as "Beast," is a summer training that all students that are appointed to West Point must go through. It's an intense 7 weeks summer training that teaches you the fudamental drills, military lifestyle, proper procedures to become highly alert, military tactics, and leadership skills. Each and everyone will go through numerous obstacles that correlate to the pernicious situations in Iraq. Everyone will learn how to assemble their M16A2 Rifles perfectly. Everyone will learn how to shoot, or "Zero" the target. Everyone will obtain that killer instinct like they are in the battle zone when it comes to serious situations. Everyone will sleep in a very murky, bleak, and cold place while his or her uniform is completely soaked either with sweat or rain. Everyone will eat myriads of MRE (meals read to eat) to the point where he or she gets sick of looking at it. Everyone will learn more about him or herself even more and see what his or her limit is. Everyone will find out if they are competent enough to endure throughout the entire Beast and finish it. Everyone is obligated to wake up at 5'o clock by the piercing voice that his or her cadre (leader) proclaims. Everyone will learn how to flush out their system (or feces or shi$) in 1 minute. To sum it up, everyone will learn how to think and act under great pressure. Cadet Basic Training will make sure that you become one of the best soldiers in the world that can set meritorious examples to the peers. That is my definition of Cadet Basic Training.

And you are dubbed "New Cadet" until after A-day. You are not an actual cadet until A-day is over.