APRIL

Well, it is nearing the end of my 4/c year, and I am pumped for summer! The 4/c are getting very excited to become the 3/c… and “carry on” is just around the corner. ("Carry on" is a rite of passage from 4/c to 3/c and means you have earned the priviledge to be free from having to "brace up.") This past week my company also passed our 4/c Indoctrination Boards. These are oral exams where a 1/c and two 2/c cadets ask each of us 10 questions on Coast Guard knowledge and history. You must get 8 of the 10 questions right to pass and in order to become a 3/c cadet, all of the 4/c have to pass their boards.

I feel the USCGA has been the right choice for me. The past 9 months of my life have been a growing experience. I have become much more independent since I am so far away from home. It is tough sometimes to see people who live closer having the opportunity to see their families or go home over long weekends, but I think this has helped me grow closer to my friends. People are always willing to take you home over holidays; they want you to meet their family.

A year ago, I accepted my appointment to the Academy and was undergoing the nerves of facing Swab Summer. I had a lot of questions about the summer and how to prepare. It is difficult to put words to your life here. Physical experience is the only way to grow and learn.

For those appointees who are reading, my advice for the challenge ahead of you is to develop your inner self-confidence. You will probably be humbled when you come, because you will be working with many talented young people. I think the biggest piece of advice I can give is to give every task your all. If you work hard, it will be noticed. During the summer it helps if you blend in with the rest of your "company" (the group you are put with). Do your job adequately, and the summer will go smoothly for you. I have found that by focusing on what I can control, and not dwelling on what I cannot, I am a more positive person. Attitude is very important. When things are tough, the best way to make it through is to stay positive. Your career in the Coast Guard begins with yourself, and the coming year will help you grow.

If you have any questions at all, please email me with them: Caitlin.B.Cunningham@cadetmail.uscga.edu