<p>I had the opportunity to be the main M/N in charge of running the firing range for 2013 during Indoc. I worked with at least 10 other M/N during the 9 days of shooting and they performed very well. The candidates were also not that bad. There were no mishaps during any of the firing stages. Some candidates were impressive shots, others were not. But they all seemed to enjoy the opportunity to get away from their DIs and shoot a few rounds. You parents of 2013 candidates should be proud of you sons/daughters for making it through indoc (it is coming to a close soon). The real trip is about to start though. Academics are KEY. Stress to them the importance of maintaining good grades. This place puts you on an amazing road, 2013 is just starting theirs.</p>
<p>Thanks for the encouraging message. We know they are great just glad you guys have noticed too! STUDY, STUDY and STUDY that is the new mantra it seems. :)</p>
<p>Thanks for the update. I am sure they all enjoyed being at the range. I only hope they take the upperclass advice about study, study study and do not wait to seek extra help!!</p>
<p>Good points!</p>
<p>The advice I’ve given every person who I worked with to get in to KP and now give my son - Class of 2012 0 is “Take care of the academics first and the other stuff will usually fall into place.”</p>
<p>Lots of mids are cocky “B’s” - I know I was and still am but with the Regimental Stuff, the transition to college, the fact that most mids participate in at least one extra-curricular activity (if for no other reason to maintain some semblence of sanity) and the fact that for all intents and purposes a 14 week trimester at KP is nothing more or less than a 16 week semester any place else crammed into 14 weeks, the academics are challenging. It’s especially rigourous Plebe Year because of the courses - Physics, and Calculus which everyone must take and pass and which are the primary ones that those who have academic issues stumble on most. Bottom line if you fall behind academically it’s hard to catch back up; lag classes mean extended schedules, etc. and while they offer mids a second chance, it’s not an easy road to travel.</p>
<p>Parents of 2013 - the journey is really just beginning and it’s a great one for your sons and daughters. It’s trying all the time. I graduated in 1982 and my son is on day 4 on his first ship of third class sea year. I thought I’d seen it all and it wouldn’t be any big deal for me. I find myself like every other parent - proud, worrisome and encorouging. If I still have anything ove anybody else its I have lots of reasons seperate and aside from my own son to know and really believe it will be worth it for him, if this is indeed what he wants to do. Nothing more and nothing less. I also have experienced first hand some, but only some, of what he goes through now every day on his journey towards becoming a KP alumnus. </p>
<p>I believe the best advice to them is take care of the academics, ask for help early if you think you might need it, and stay positive - the last isn’t always easy for them but getting negative only makes it all harder.</p>