Shawna-Marie Sinclair
My experience differs slightly from most cadets because I did not independently apply to the Academy. I joined the Jamaica Defense Force (JDF) in Jamaica as an officer. While training to become an officer, I was told by my superior that there was a 4-year long course that they would apply for on my behalf. The opportunity to earn a degree upon graduation and my competency and determination made them believe I could complete the four years. Upon selection, I conducted my research on the Academy. I realized there is nowhere else I would rather be than a place that will value my differences, and develop my expertise and competency both professionally and mentally, so I was happy to get an appointment.
Swab Summer was challenging—being in a new environment, learning everything new, and feeling awkward because I did not grow up the way my classmates did. I learned about the culture as time progressed, and it all became easier. In addition, I was not fluent in my English-speaking skills. Presenting in front of a large group of people, being at the Academy, has helped me mature in a way that I am comfortable with public speaking. Also, with all the combined demands of academics, military, and sports, the Academy is designed to be difficult because when we graduate and enter the fleet, there will be instances where we will be challenged and have limited time to complete a task. So training us to have all these obligations with limited time, will become essential further down the line.
If you are considering applying to the Academy, please do not hesitate to do so because this is one of the most rewarding life-changing experiences anyone could ask for. It will be challenging, you will face the challenge of juggling academic, sports, and military responsibilities, along with the unique experience of adapting to a new culture and potentially feeling homesick. However, stay resilient and lean on the support of others, such as your peers, instructors, company officers and chief, and the Academy community overall. Remember, while being a student and a military member is challenging, this combination builds the kind of courageous leadership the military needs. Join the many extracurricular activities and clubs the Academy has to offer so that you can build bonds with different people. Finally, remember to have fun!