<p>Yeah, Im a Wp candidate from Cali and I just wanted to know if any body could give me some tips for this years SLS, such what to bring, what im in for, etc.
ID be a real help, thx</p>
<p>Click the "search this thread" button above your post to the right and search for "SLS". You will find a lot of valuable information on this site.</p>
<p>However, as far as what to bring, I'd also like to know. Obviously I have the official packing list, but are there other supplemental items I should bring (i.e. a fan)?</p>
<p>I went to SLS last june at WP. I had the time of my life. I don't remember verbatim what's on the list they send you so I might repeat some items. </p>
<p>When I went, it was really warm and humid so I'd say bring the coolest clothes possible (I know its restricted), sunscreen, possibly an alarm clock, shower sandals (if you are picky about germs), towels, maybe some snacks....they pretty much give you everything you could need though. </p>
<p>It'll be a lot of fun. Hopefully you picked some interesting classes. Most of the ones I signed up for where interesting. The physical part isn't too bad either. You take a Physical Fitness Test the second day (push ups, sit ups, mile run, basketball throw, etc) and then usually every morning you have Physical Training ("PT"). I could elaborate on a lot of minor details about the camp but thats the basics. Just look forward to having a good week with a lot of fun and interesting people from all over the country.</p>
<p>If it's the same as prior summers, the physical fitness test that is administered can actually count toward your admissions. So you may want to practice the parts of the CFA. Strong performance could just lead to an LOA.</p>
<p>In terms of what to bring, follow the directions on the list. You'll be given some clothes - tee shirts, polo shirts, etc. - also. And have a blast!</p>
<p>Take the interview that you have with your squad leader seriously. This interview will most likely replace the MALO interview if you attend SLS.</p>
<p>Practice training for your CFA in the heat, using correct form. Doing it in the heat and humidity of the afternoon sun (and after lunch!), with cadre who will discount pushups/pullups/situps that are not done to their standards can be challenging.</p>
<p>Have fun - by all accounts it is a great week!</p>
<p>The CFA will be in the morning from 6 until 10.</p>
<p>Well, that's an improvement over last year when my son did his on the Sunday afternoon in 95 degree heat.</p>
<p>Yea I did it last year, that afternoon was unbelievably hot. Especially since my pt uniform was a black WP tee. Right after the CFA we got "enjoy" a walking tour of the academy. That night I got the best sleep I got all week.</p>
<p>I'm attending the seminar too although I don't intend to apply to USMA. I just want to go to see what it's like because it's quite inexpensive. Other academic programs cost a lot of money. 8{</p>
<p>I need tips too since i'm not that athletic and have never ran a mile in my life!!!! (well i do walk/run and sprint stuff) </p>
<p>Is it extremely rigorous and do what happens if a participant fails the CFA test?</p>
<p>I had a question about clothing to bring. It says collared shirts, and I was wondering if they expect something like polo shirts (considering they issue us two) or if we should bring some nicer dress shirts for speakers or anything (I'm kinda in the dark). I'm trying to prepare for SLS and Boys State right now because my next month will be crammed and I just want to have the right things. Any advice from previous participants?</p>
<p>I don't know much about the sls, but I can guess it must be some what difficult, it's the military academy, I would say it's no walk in the park ultima. Also, why on earth would you go to USMA sls if you have no intention of attending the Academy, it's a waste of your time. The sls is for people who wish to attend any of the service academys to get some sort of a view of the life a cadet lives. You're just taking away someone's opportunity that wants to go to USMA or another academy.</p>
<p>Oh, and Ultima, the CFA is not really a big deal. It's great if you pass it during SLS, but it's not imperetive. Just get in the best shape you can in the time you have and be ready to run (from what I've heard). Remember, we're not going as cadets, and this isn't Beast. They won't kick you out if you can't do a million push-ups (just be prepared when Beast does roll around!)</p>
<p>Ultima,</p>
<p>It's a great summer program and you're absolutely right about the price. It's a great opportunity to see if you could like a service academy experience. You probably have a mild interest or you wouldn't have applied. So, I can suggest that you go with an open mind. You just may discover that it's something you would love to do. On the other hand, it's a great way to test the waters so that you don't apply if it isn't what you truly want to be doing.</p>
<p>Have fun!</p>
<p>And you may want to begin an easy running program. It will just make the week better for you if you don't ache from the runs.</p>
<p>Don't lose track of those freakin' water bottles that they'll issue you! They're pretty serious about keeping hydrated. Definitely pack a camera(s); there are some great photo opportunities. The shirts aren't really a big deal. I'd say 95% of the time your in the issued PT or polo shirt (you won't even notice the stink coming off them after 5 days!) Go into this experience with an open attitude (and I'm not just talking to Ultima). You will be surrounded by tons of people that share your ambitions and motivation, which makes for a great place to form friendships and meet teenagers that you normally wouldn't be exposed to. Oh and don't forget to HAVE FUN. When Beast rolls around, I'm sure SLS will seem like Sunday Bible study.</p>
<p>Actually SLS is for people who what to see a little bit of what West Point is, with that said it is also different this year, you will get to do a whole day in the field. Polo shirts is what collar shirt means by the way and getting shape is a good idea it has been relatively cool up here all spring which means it will be a hot summer.</p>