<p>Mostly my son said it was very intense. The first night or two sounded like they were the worst because when you are not used to being screamed at and intimidated, it was kind of a shock to your system. He said the kids who had attended other academy summer programs felt that they spent more time at the other academy programs in a classroom setting than they did when at the CGA. It sounds like as the week goes on, it gets a little easier. They try to end it on a positive note. Lots of mind games. I know a kid got sent home the summer my son was there for doing something he thought was a little joke so I would suggest looking at the AIM week as a weeklong interview. You will be tired and hot and irritable, but try to maintain your composure as much as you can. Whatever you do, don’t say or write anything to the cadre that you will later regret.</p>
<p>I think after the first night, my son slept on top of the made bed because it saved time in the morning. You only have so many seconds to jump out of your bed and get to the hall. I can’t remember if it was swab summer or AIM week, but if they tell you you have to wake up because of the loud noise (speaker?) in the morning, then don’t try to set an alarm a few minutes earlier so you have more time…you will get nabbed and it is not good…I will let you know if we remember anything else that might help.</p>