DECEMBER 2008

December 2, 2008

It seems like just yesterday I was sitting on a bus with 37 of my classmates on Reporting-In Day, not knowing what to expect, and not realizing the full capacity of our decision to come here. All of a sudden, a second class cadet charges on to the bus, “You have 20 seconds to get off my bus, and you have already wasted 10 of them!” My excitement that had been building up since my acceptance on December 15, 2007 suddenly turned into fear and anxiety. If anyone had asked me how I felt at the time, I would have said I was questioning my decision to come to the Academy. Now, as I am sitting at my desk, I can’t believe that I have made it through Swab Summer and most of the fall semester. The doubts that I had about my decision to attend the Academy have dissipated. I entered the gates of the Academy as a clueless civilian, and through all the different aspects of the Academy, I have begun my transition into a Coast Guard officer.

December 6, 2008

We had our annual Holiday Formal tonight, and it was great to take a break from academics just to have a good time with friends. When 4/c cadets wear their formal uniform, we have full carry-on, which means we no longer need to “brace-up” or “square corners,” which was a treat. Although we still have a whole semester to go until we are granted carry-on, it was nice to get a taste of what lies ahead for us. Every year at the academy, more privileges are granted, so there is always something to look forward to.

The Regimental Morale Department here at the Academy has started to have daily activities every afternoon at lunch in order to celebrate the upcoming holiday season. With military, academic, and athletic obligations everyday, it’s always nice to have a little morale booster here and there. Listening to upper class blast holiday music and seeing everyone’s room decorated has definitely lightened the mood here in the barracks. Knowing that winter leave is right around the corner has made studying for finals bearable. It is helpful to know that all my hard work will be rewarded by 2 whole weeks in California, spending time with family and friends, eating my mom’s home cooking, and rejuvenating for the upcoming semester. I hope you all have a great holiday season, and I’ll see you next year!