I just received an invitation to a candidate visitation weekend and plan on going. I was wondering if anyone who has been to one before could tell me what kinds of things I would be doing and what I would need to bring. Thanks.
"Junior" received the same letter this afternoon. The letter specifically states that the visitation program is not a guarantee that you will receive an offer of appintment. During the visitation, you will essentially shadow a plebe from the Class of 2010 (i.e., attend classes, participate in sports, etc.). Even if you attended NASS, this is your best opportunity to find out what life is like as a midshipmen in the brigade.
When I went, I met my plebe early that Friday morning I believe (its been almost two years lol). I went to class with him and later that day went to rugby practice! But I was a little disappointed with it...all we did were sprints haha. Among other things, we ate in king hall, and he showed me around the yard. I also went to Saturday morning training with him.
I would make every attempt to go if I were you. I went to NASS and this weekend was TOTALLY different. It gives you the perspective of what the REAL academy is. At least the best view you can get without actually being a mid. :-P
Oh, and the mid does give you some sort of recommendation (although i dont know how significant it is), so dress sharp and present yourself well. Although, my mid didnt really like the fact that I called him 'sir' at first. :-)
For those of you who get CVW invites - much congrats one and all. By all means do go - even if you went to NASS. Our kiddo travelled clear across the country twice in 4 months to do both - we felt it showed her interest in USNA.
Admissions sends out the invites as they review the applications...and it's a hopeful sign, but by no means a definite sign that you'll be offered an Appointment. I know young people last year with CVW's and nominations, but no Appointment. However - it you are getting invites this early - it means your applications are coming up before the Board in the early going, another good sign. They really want young people to visit USNA before making any committment to it. They know not everyone can attend NASS, and therefore provide CVW and sport's camps as ways for this to happen.
Last year our kiddo planned her weekend in the fall to coincide with a home football game. If any of you can do this, by all means try it. It's a great way to get the real flavor of this part of a mid's life.
She didn't dress all that fancy, by the way. Comfortable clothing, not dressy clothing, was the norm for the weekend.
Oh, by no means wear a shirt and tie (or dress for the ladies). But be decent. Collared shirt...tucked in, at least at first. But peskemom and profmom are correct. Be comfortable! And the PE gear is a must.
Would add in a few more items to "the list" of what to bring.
Several people brought a sleeping bag (or sheet and pillow)....if given a rack, you may want to sleep on top of it rather than under the covers, so that the mid dragging you will not have to re-make it.
pack light- take only the essentials. Wear comfortable shoes- there usually is a lot of walking. PE gear (tee shirt with no markings and athletic shorts, sneakers)... kacki pants .... (not cargo pants and not jeans of any kind)...neat, pressed and belted...... collared shirt (polo shirt is fine, but with a collar)....light jacket or fleece.... toothbrush and paste and you should be good to go.
Run, don't walk, to the CVW if invited. Use every opportunity offered to you to check the place out (this applies to all your top choice schools, btw).... ask lots of questions from several students- each will have their own opinion, and their own insights into the place....
