I do not think a midshipman ever quite forgets his or her I-Day or plebe summer. I know I haven’t. For some it was a positive experience—allow me to quote my friend who said “It was like summer camp!”For others, like me, it was less than enjoyable. Take my face here for example:
This is me on I-Day. Tired, nervous, not knowing how to salute, and probably reconsidering why I came to the academy in the first place. I think this is what you would call the “What the hell did I just do?” face. Embarrassing as it may be, ask any midshipman and they will agree that they also have “that one plebe summer photo” they keep locked up in a vault. My friend kindly shared his “not-so-happy-plebe face” with me for your enjoyment:
My point is, we all had that moment, we all have that embarrassing photo, and we all go through the same thing. No one is in it alone.
In retrospect, plebe summer was a pinnacle moment in my life because I had to forget where I came from, what I once had, and who I used to be. At the same time, I had to let go of my past life while still staying true to the integrity and strength that had gotten me to the Naval Academy. I now was a member of the military, and with that came many responsibilities and changes—changes I was not prepared for. And who really is ever prepared? Sure, running and working out prepares you for the physical burden of plebe summer, but how does one prepare for the imminent mental stress? If you are reading this and were once a midshipman, you understand . If you are not a midshipman yet, then please allow me to grant you some tips—from some friends and I to you—to help you make the most of of plebe summer.
#1 Follow instructions and orders
This may seem redundant, but you’d be surprised how many people it hard to follow orders. Whether you agree with your detailer or not, it is important to follow their his or her instruction and orders. If you are unclear of what you are supposed to be doing—ask. It is better to ask and get yelled at for it, but then do what you are supposed to do. Safety and accountability are essential during plebe summer and it is better to ask for more instruction than risk the consequences.
#2 Do not talk about high school, JROTC, prior service, if not asked
This is a touchy subject for some, after all, all incoming midshipmen from come prestigious and successful backgrounds. The point of plebe summer is to strip you of your “civilian-ness” including, but not limited to, your experiences in high school. Being class president or captain of a sports team may have helped you get into the academy, but it will be irrelevant once you are a plebe. Do not bring up the past unless asked or else it could reflect poorly on your evaluations.
#3 Prepare some jokes beforehand
It may sound silly, but this is a pro tip. Detailers love to hear jokes. What they love even more is putting you on the spot to hear a joke. Most nights at dinner, our squad leader would have us to go around and say a joke. I do not know about you, but I hate being put on the spot! If you want to prepare some jokes it will help relieve some stress down the road.
#4 Do not take anything too seriously—especially do not take yourself too seriously
Plebe summer is temporary, remember that.
#5 Keep in mind that the detailers are in training and are being evaluated too
If you are nervous, remember that your detailers are too. They are part of a training evolution and want to do a good job. They are being evaluated too, not just you.
#6 Do not judge others; help them instead
Plebe summer is where you make a lasting first impression. Sometimes some do not make a great impression. Instead of judging another’s performance in plebe summer, help them. Have your lasting impression be that you were helpful and kind.
#7 If you have a strength, use it to better others
If you are a fast runner, run in the back with those who cannot keep up. If you are strong, help others when they are struggling. Be the person who turns around and makes sure everyone is keeping up.
#8 Lock up your journal or diary
If you are writing down your private thoughts, do not leave them unlocked. If you leave them in your rack cubby your detailers will find them and read them. If you want something to remain private, keep it locked up in your con locker. Unless it is a Bible, I would not leave anything out in the open.
#9 Attend religious services on Sunday
Even if you are not religious, go to a service on Sunday. The religious services have free food and coffee. It is a great break from the routine of plebe summer. There is a “free-thinkers group” for anyone not interested in religion but wants to relax and drink some coffee. Enjoy Sundays as must as possible.
#10 Get help if you need it
Whether it be mental or physical, if you need help ask for it. There are chaplains around for your help. There is an astounding amount of medical help available to you during plebe summer. If you are sick, injured, or struggling, reach out to a trusted detailer, someone you are comfortable with. It is okay to have a weakness but it is up to you to improve it.
#11 Make the most out of this once in a lifetime experience
As I enter my last year at the Naval Academy I have realized that attending this institution is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Take every opportunity and experience you can—even the bad ones.
These are some of my tips for you. Keep an open mind, be kind, and stay positive. Congratulations to the incoming Class of 2022! Your I-Day is right around the corner. Good luck with plebe summer and we all look forward to meeting you and helping you throughout your plebe year.
