<p>Kudos to the NASS squad leaders! My son's was tough, but fair. At the end of the NASS experience. He came up and shook people's hands. My son was the last one in line. My son (I think this is being brought up semi-German) gave him a firm handshake and looked him in the eye. The squad leader said he was the first one to give him a real handshake and not afraid to look at him (not in a disrespectful manner, though, and not when he should be keeping his "eyes in the boat"). He told him he saw no weaknesses in him and should he receive an appointment, he thought he'd do well. </p>
<p>The boy STILL talks about his squad leader and that he wants to be one, too, for NASS.</p>
<p>Agreed. I ended up getting a superb recommendation from him for something else (tough scholarship) and the committee actually wrote me saying not only how they thought it was remarkable I did the program, but that a Midshipman could write such great, yet punctual and "tough" things about me. I guess he included some of my weaknesses (I about lost it trying to climb over a 8ft wall, and i HATE heights, but I just sort of humped it and he reminded me of that everytime he could), which proves i'm human, but still portrayed me in a great way. I owe the $2K scholarship to him I think.</p>
<p>So, yes, give it 110%. Otherwise, not only will you fail yourself, but your company. Read my first post about the girl in my company. I've always been taught to accept people who arn't as capable as me, but her lack of effort was putting herself, and her company, in danger. (Not good!) That is by far the worst thing you can do, at NASS, at the Academy, when you're in command, or basically anytime in life. If there was one thing I learned there, it was that. I'll never forget watching her about drown herself and a company mate because she refused to hold on to a boat to try to get back in. So please, depend on your company, but make sure they can depend on you. This goes for anything in life as well.</p>
<p>one of the greatest experiences of my life. I didnt know anything really at all about the Naval Academy when I went in but after the seminar is over you really become educated on what the Academy is all about. I got a brochure in the mail and submitted it like 2-3 weeks later. I wouldnt stress over the running if you are already in shape, although it will help u if u do run and jog because there will be times where you are tired. Indoc night is actually funny when you look back on it. And its cool because I came from the west coast and the people I shared a dorm with were from north carolina and west virginia, and georgia so u get to learn a lot about other people. </p>
<p>Dont expect much free time either, they keep you busy. But trust me its fun :)</p>
<p>Also, if you know how to march, and your other squad-lings don't, do not "bilge" them and offer to teach them in order to make yourself stand out as a leader. Your squadmates, who may not be the most coordinated at this point, WILL NOT appreciate it, and will let you know in no uncertain, and maybe vulgar, terms. :rolleyes:</p>
<p>My daughter went to NASS during the summer of '05. As for the shorts, we found some at a national sporting goods chain that came with a same color spandex built in. They came in navy or black quick dry material, were neither too long nor too short, neither too loose nor too tight - they were just right. </p>
<p>She had a great experience during NASS, worked hard but enjoyed it. I hope those of you going this summer have a similar experience.</p>