Describe your initial impression of AIM in five words or less.
Difficult, fun, stressful, rewarding.
What was the most interesting thing you learned about the Academy that you didn’t already know?
I was surprised to learn that the Academy offers many different career paths—you’re not limited to just Coast Guard-specific roles. There’s a lot more variety than I expected.
What was your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge was my “goldfish memory.” If I got stuck thinking about past mistakes, it would hold me back from improving and learning. I had to train myself to move on quickly, take lessons from each experience, and stay focused on what’s ahead rather than what’s behind.
Looking back, would you have done anything different to prepare yourself for AIM?
Honestly, there’s not much you can do to fully prepare for AIM—but I would have exercised a little more. Physical readiness definitely makes a difference.
Can you identify a noticeable difference in yourself after attending AIM? If so, what?
AIM changed the way I see things. I’ve become much more confident and feel like I can take on anything. It really pushed me past my limits and showed me what I’m capable of.
Would you recommend attending AIM? Why?
Absolutely. AIM is an amazing experience. It’s very demanding, but through the challenges, you learn a lot about yourself. You grow not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. I’d recommend it to anyone willing to push themselves and grow.
