<p>Hi Buffalo~
I remember you and your countdown before leaving last June! You seemed like an exceptional candidate. Can you share some advice for those here...I remember how eager you were to get started and it sounds like you have had a more difficult time than expected....Best Wishes! JM</p>
<p>Yes, I was extrememly overanxious last year. I landed myself in some unfortunate circumstances that caused me some trouble and have resulted in tremendous growth. I pulled my hamstring (thinking I had just run too hard) the week before IDay, so that plagued me throughout the summer. My company commander knows my brother, and unintentionally let some people know I had family here (which basically amplifies all screwups). And I screwed up a lot. Generally, I became "that guy." Don't EVER become "that guy" as it is ridiculously hard to break the mold. 7 months later and I am just now getting out of it. However, if I had to do it again, I would without any hesitation. The key is to keep a positive mind and to AT ALL COSTS make it through plebe summer. They can't kick you out only threaten that they will (unless of course honor becomes an issue). And if there is any doubt that you will have difficulty memorizing rates, learn them now. 11 general orders of a sentry, 6 articles of the code of conduct, Sailor's creed, and you should already know the mission.</p>
<p>Oh, and meet as many people beforehand as you can. Trade IM names, talk, trade pictures so you know what these people look like. Seeing their face/nametag will really help you realize lots of people are going through it as you march past in formation.</p>
<p>That being said, my experience was completely different than that of most people in my company, and our company was different than all the others. You can't really know what to expect. My company is generally known as one of the harder companies, but we also haven't had anyone quit (some joke that its because I attract all the attention). </p>
<p>Oh, and don't start a website with friends. Its a bit embarassing when you get called on it another "that guy" phenomenon. </p>
<p>Anything else?</p>
<p>Buffalo~I just logged on and thanks for sharing your thoughts. It sounds like you are doing well now and it is sure impressive what you have done to stay at USNA! Getting ready physically / mentally sounds like a big piece of the hurdle. How would you advise candidates to train. Is the plan they send you enough? It sounds like you don't want to do so much that you get hurt either. Thanks for sharing what sounds like a tough year! Hope there were some highlights along the way! The Army-Navy game looked fun! My son enjoyed a sprint football game when at the Academy too! Best Wishes~JM</p>
<p>Yes the plan they give you is great. However, second semester senior year is busy, so you have to make sure you actually DO it. The LCDR who developed that program (and Plebe Summer and Remedial Workouts) really knows what he is doing and has helped me a lot. me getting injured was mainly starting too late. I wanted to enjoy hanging out with my 'friends' from high school (which you quickly realize you have nothing in common with) and didnt work out hard enough. I also had never run on hills that they have up here (though there is only one on the yard over by Hospital Point, there were a lot out by my friend's house)</p>
<p>As for the hurdle....it's 2/3...morally, mentally, physically. most of the moral attributes have to have been ingrained in you, the other two are up to you. the better prepared you come in, the less time you have to spend trying to catch up with the guy that prepared a lot before he came.</p>
<p>best of luck to your son.</p>
<p>buffalo, thanks for sharing your experiences! Nice to hear from those actually going through it. It sounds like there must be a ton of running during plebe year. At least that's one area I should be ok in. ;)</p>
<p>Lots of running for those who are deficient in running. (screaming "me")</p>