Describe your initial impression of AIM in five words or less.
Motivating, Inspiring, and Challenging
What was the most interesting thing you learned about the Academy that you didn’t already know?
Before attending AIM, I conducted extensive research to learn about the Academy and its life; however, one aspect that stood out to me during my time at the Academy was the community. Every cadet spoke very positively about the connections and community that are present not only through the Coast Guard Academy but also through your time as an officer in the Coast Guard.
What was your biggest challenge, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I overcame at AIM was connecting with my shipmates while in a braced-up environment. Through the week, you are given very little time to get to know your shipmates, and therefore, I had a hard time working with my team despite not knowing them. We were able to overcome this by bonding through shared experiences and taking advantage of all the time we were given to connect and build community.
Looking back, would you have done anything different to prepare yourself for AIM?
Looking back, I wish I had done more cardio before AIM. Throughout the week, you are constantly running and moving, so having good cardio and stamina is very helpful. I would also have taken more practice PFEs before attending AIM. While I practiced each exercise and trained for them, I would highly recommend running through the test multiple times to set yourself up for success while at AIM.
Can you identify a noticeable difference in yourself after attending AIM? If so, what?
Yes, after completing AIM, I can identify many areas in which I have grown throughout the week, as well as areas in which I can continue to grow. After completing the rigorous mental and physical challenges of AIM, I am able to take on challenges with more grit and determination. I also now have a clearer vision of the person and the leader I want to become. Through AIM, you are surrounded by cadets at the academy, and being able to learn from them shows me the leader that I want to work towards becoming.
Would you recommend attending AIM? Why?
Yes, I would highly recommend AIM to anyone who is considering a service academy. AIM is an incredible opportunity to see if military academy life is right for you. This experience shows you a snapshot of what swab summer will be like, and it was very helpful for me in securing the Coast Guard Academy as my first choice for colleges.
