Indoctrination begins on Thursday, July 3, 2025!

Congratulations on your appointment to the United States Merchant Academy! We are pleased to welcome you among an elite group of students selected to the Class of 2029. Below are items of interests that will help you prepare for reporting to Indoctrination on July 3rd. All accepted candidates will receive detailed reporting instructions, referred to as the "Logging In" booklet, via FEDEX by the first week of May. If you have questions about the process, please contact us at INDOC@USMMA.EDU.

Admitted students virtual information sessions

•    Wednesday, April 16, 2025 @ 8pm EST - Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/YGjw2IVTSJihwor2tod4cw
•    Wednesday, May 14, 2025 @ 8pm EST - Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/TjsU8qxoRtquBvYLMZTqQg

These information sessions are intended for Class of 2029 appointees. Appointees are highly encouraged to attend one of these sessions.

Reporting Date and Time

Plebe Candidates will report to the Academy on Thursday, July 3, 2025, 0700 - 0830.
0700-0730     Plebe Candidate In-Processing (Last Names A thru I)
0730-0800     Plebe Candidate In-Processing (Last Names J thru R)
0800-0830     Plebe Candidate In-Processing (Last Names S thru Z)

Plan to arrive within 15-30 minutes prior to your report time. ONLY those who have received Orders to Report can sign-in to the Academy on the above date.  No late starts will be permitted. You should eat breakfast before you arrive.  Note: Athletes may bring equipment as directed by their coach.

Family Indoctrination Schedule

Thursday, July 3, 2025
0700-0730       Plebe Candidate Drop Off (Last Names A thru I)
0730-0800       Plebe Candidate Drop Off (Last Names J thru R)
0800-0830       Plebe Candidate Drop Off (Last Names S thru Z)
1100-1145        Family Brief in Ackerman Auditorium
1150                  Family view Plebe Oath on Barney Square
1200-1300       Welcome Lunch hosted by USMMA Alumni Association and Foundation (USMMA-AAF)
1300                 Campus Closed to Visitors

Key Dates

Indoctrination Ends – Sunday, July 20, 2025
1st Term Classes Begin – Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Family Weekend - September 5 to 7, 2025

Travel to USMMA

Within your Logging In packet you will receive an Orders to Report document that includes your Student ID number and instructions on making your travel arrangements. Once received please ensure that you check off the Acceptance or Declination box and return the form via email to INDOC@USMMA.EDU.

Plebe Candidates are reimbursed for official travel only from your legal home of record directly to Kings Point. Hotel and rental vehicles will not be reimbursed. Your authorized travel expenses include privately owned vehicle mileage at the government mileage rate ($0.70/mile) or common carrier (aircraft) at the government rate (whichever is least costly to the Government).  It is recommended that all official travel arrangements be made through USMMA’s Travel Management Center. Travel Professionals’ preferred contact method is e-mail (tpi.travel@embarqmail.com). Telephone calls are welcome at 1-850-678-6688. To receive reimbursement for Indoctrination travel expenses, you will be required to submit substantiating documents (all receipts). For questions about official travel, contact the Office of Academy Financial Management (OAFM) travel representatives: Ms. K.C. Pounds, at PoundsK@usmma.edu or (516) 726-5595, or Mr. Steven Palmer, at PalmerS@usmma.edu or (516) 265-5853.

Mail and Package Delivery

*Plebe Candidates are prohibited from receiving packages prior to and during Indoctrination. USMMA mail is collected from the Great Neck Carrier Annex building, therefore, processing packages may take an additional 2-4 days for distribution to the student. Mail and packages without box numbers may experience added, significant delays in delivery. Please ensure all First-class Mail, magazine subscriptions, Parcel Post, and package delivery services include the correct box number. Some entities may not deliver to a box number or may not have space within online ordering forms for box numbers. Be mindful of ordering items for delivery to the academy, ensure that your name and box # are reflected in the address line. Midshipmen have found it very useful to include the box numbers as middle names or add the box number to the end of the first or last name such, as Taylor 1234 Doe, Taylor Doe1234, etc.

In-Processing Documents Required for Indoctrination:

Plebe Candidate MUST arrive for Indoctrination with the following documents:

Passport: must be valid through December 31, 2029.  If the passport expires prior to that date, please renew the passport prior to Indoctrination.

Application or renewal of a current passport expiring before 31 December 2029, can be done at your local Post Office, online at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html, or by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778.  
 
If you have not yet made an appointment and/or ordered your passport, PLEASE DO SO IMMEDIATELY! Appointment availability may vary, and there can be a lengthy turnaround time for receiving the official document.   Failure to have a valid passport through 31 December 2029 may impact your ability to go to sea.

Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC): All U.S. citizens must obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) prior to arriving for Indoctrination. TWICs are tamper-resistant biometric credentials issued to workers who require unescorted access to secure areas of ports, including all merchant mariners. The cost of the TWIC is approximately $124.
 
To obtain a TWIC, go online to https://universalenroll.dhs.gov/programs/twic and carefully follow the instructions provided, especially those related to the requirements for personal identification. It is recommended that you pre-enroll on the TWIC website and then schedule an appointment through the website at your closest TSA Enrollment Center. When pre-enrolling, it is critical to the application of the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) to indicate the card’s purpose is for employment as a Merchant Mariner and the employer is U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.  During enrollment, you must provide a physical address (not a PO Box) for the TWIC to be sent.  
 
If you have any questions about obtaining either a passport or TWIC, please contact Mrs. Taleen Stroud, the Academy’s USCG Licensing and Credentialing Officer, at (516) 726-5752 or stroudt@usmma.edu.  

Student Identification and Access (PIV-I Card): Prospective students planning to attend the USMMA must obtain a government form of identification (PIV-I).
Refer to the Student Identification and Access (PIV-I Card) Instructions document for detailed instructions for obtaining your PIV-I.

Fourth-Class Questionnaire: You will receive a Fourth-Class Questionnaire via email. You must fill out the questionnaire in its entirety, and email it back to the Midshipmen Personnel Officer at sicac@usmma.edu.

Information on Midshipman Fees

The Federal Government pays the majority of costs associated with enrollment at USMMA. Midshipmen receive tuition, room and board, uniforms, and textbooks at no cost. Basic medical and dental care are provided through the Academy’s Department of Health Services (DHS).

The Academy assesses Midshipman Fees in accordance with 46 CFR Part 310.62 (b) to cover the cost of items and services generally of a personal nature, which are provided on campus through service contracts. These personal services include:  

• Wash-and-fold laundry service: weekly service contract for laundry service for uniforms and garments.
• Tailor and seamstress service: personnel and supplies to provide uniform adjustments and repairs to ensure consistent appearance.

The Midshipman Fee for Academic Year 2025/2026 is $909.

Midshipman Fees are payable in full, up front, for the entire Academic Year and are due prior to the start of Indoctrination. The Office of Academy Financial Management (OAFM) will invoice you no later than 1 June 2025.  Plebe Candidates who have a signed Financial Aid Award Letter with sufficient funds will not be required to pay Midshipman Fees out of pocket.  Provide both your signed Financial Aid Acceptance Form and the Financial Aid Award Letter to OAFM with your invoice. If you have any questions about your invoice or Midshipman Fees, please contact Ms. Brenda Collins in OAFM at CollinsB@usmma.edu.
 
Payment of Midshipman Fees should be made online at https://www.pay.gov with a credit/debit card, bank account (ACH), or PayPal account. Payment instructions will be included with your Midshipman Fee invoice.  Payment can also be made by check or money order.

Financial Aid

USMMA participates in the Federal Student Aid (FSA) Program and is authorized to disburse FSA Pell Grants and Direct Loans to all eligible students.  All students, regardless of family income, are eligible to receive Federal Student Aid. Students must complete a FAFSA to receive financial aid. Refer to the Financial Aid - Class of 2029 document for detailed information about the financial aid process which can be downloaded from the "Related Documents" section.

Packing List and Items to Bring

Personal Gear – Male

Male Plebe Candidates must report in appropriate casual summer attire: collared shirt (short sleeve polo or button-up shirt) and lightweight slacks or shorts with a belt (if applicable) and clean shaven. Jeans are not permitted. Athletic shoes must be worn. Male Plebe Candidates must bring the following:
•    Running shoes – Any brand is acceptable; however, shoes must be predominantly white. If the shoe has stripes/trim it must be blue or gray/silver in color. We recommended you break in the shoes prior to reporting.
•    Socks, white cotton athletic (without stripes or trim and crew length) – 14 pairs
•    T-shirts, white crew neck (round neck) – 14
•    Toiletry articles (sufficient amount for duration of Indoctrination) – razor (electric or manual), shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, foot care products (as required), nail clipper, etc.
•    Undershorts or compression shorts (your preference of type), white – 14

Personal Gear – Female

Female Plebe Candidates must report in appropriate casual summer attire: collared shirt (short sleeve blouse, polo, or button-up shirt) and lightweight slacks or shorts. Jeans are not permitted.  Makeup and nail polish are prohibited at arrival and during Indoctrination. Athletic shoes must be worn. Female Plebe Candidates must bring the following:
•    Barrettes and bobby pins, neutral or same as hair color – 15
•    Bra, athletic/sport, white – 8
•    Bra, regular, white – 6 (optional)
•    Running shoes – Any brand is acceptable; however, shoes must be predominantly white. If the shoe has stripes/trim it must be blue or gray/silver in color. We recommend you break in the shoes prior to reporting.
•    Socks, white cotton athletic (without stripes or trim and crew length) – 14 pairs
•    T-shirts, white crew neck (round neck) – 14
•    Toiletry articles (sufficient amount for duration of Indoctrination) – razor, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, feminine hygiene, foot care products (as required), nail clipper, etc.
•    Undershorts or compression shorts (your preference of type), white – 14

Personal Gear – General

•    It is recommended that you bring a small amount of cash (not more than $100). Males can anticipate 2 haircuts at $15 each. A debit/credit card is also recommended. There is a full-service Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) personal banking facility, and ATM on campus that Plebe Candidates may join, if they choose.
•    Do not bring valuable jewelry; you will not have an opportunity to wear it.
•    Bring two working black ink ballpoint pens for signing papers.
•    If you wear eyeglasses, they must be clear (non-darkening) prescription lenses for military formations. You may not wear sunglasses at any time when participating in a military function. Contact lenses may be worn in lieu of eyeglasses.
•    A graphics calculator, the Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro, is required.
•    Cell phones may be brought, but they will not be authorized to remain on your person during Indoctrination and will be collected and stowed for safekeeping.  

NOTE: ALL OTHER ELECTRONICS (SPEAKERS, RADIOS/STEREOS, IPODS, PORTABLE GAMING DEVICES, ETC.) ARE PROHIBITED.  All items are subject to inspection and any unauthorized items may be confiscated for the duration of Indoctrination.

Plebe Kit – Personal Items

Plebe Candidates entering with the Class of 2029 are required to bring with them the EXACT items listed below by quantity, size, and vendor. These items are required for uniformity, and no deviation will be permitted. Upon reporting for Indoctrination, you will be required to have these items, completely separate from your luggage, and packed in the white mesh laundry bag.  

For your convenience, the Plebe Kit (complete, to proper specifications, and pre-bundled) is available for a tax-free purchase from the USMMA Navy Exchange (NEX). You may pre-order this bundle of items from the NEX between May 15 and June 28.  Orders will be processed starting May 26. An order form and additional information are enclosed in the Logging In packet. Payment may be made via CHECK or DEBIT/CREDIT CARD. The cost of this package is $694.48. Please contact the USMMA NEX with questions at (516) 726-6177 or BEMUSMMA@nexweb.org.

The NEX Size Chart, NEX Order Form and NEX Personal Items Kit documents are located in the "Related Documents" section.

Computer: The Academy will provide a government funded laptop / tablet for all arriving students. The laptop / tablet will include all required accessories.

Health Services Provided by the Academy
 
Midshipmen and Plebe Candidates enrolled at USMMA are eligible to receive basic health care at USMMA Department of Health Services (DHS) which is located in Patten Hall. DHS is open Monday through Friday, except holidays, from 0700 to 1530. DHS is also open on alternating weekends for medical and counseling needs. The specific dates and hours for weekends are listed at https://cms.usmma.edu/midshipman-counseling-personal-development-health-services-weekend-hours. During the Indoctrination period in July, DHS also expands hours of operations.

Pre-Admission Health Documentation

Prior to arriving at the Academy, you must complete and return to USMMA a series of important health
documents. These documents must be downloaded directly from our website. These documents will be available for download beginning April 15th at https://www.usmma.edu/academy-life/related-health-services-documents.
 

Insurance

For health care related matters that go beyond the USMMA on-site healthcare Midshipmen may require care from local health care providers on an outpatient and inpatient basis. All Plebe Candidates, Plebes and Midshipmen are REQUIRED to purchase the Academy sponsored Student Health Insurance Policy (SHIP) that meets all the minimum coverage requirements established by USMMA. However, Plebe Candidates and Midshipmen may waive this requirement through one of the two following means:

1. Through the use of an existing insurance plan (e.g. a family plan, a “self and spouse plan” or self-only
plan) that covers the candidate or midshipman; provided that the policy meets the minimum
coverage, requirements established by USMMA.
2. If there is no existing health insurance coverage, obtain a qualifying Student Health Insurance Plan
from an insurance carrier of their choice provided it meets ALL minimum coverage requirements
established by USMMA for health insurance coverage.

Additional medical insurance information will be available at https://www.usmma.edu/academy-life/related-health-services-documents beginning April 15th.

Dental

The USMMA DHS is pleased to provide general dental care onsite USMMA at the Department of Dental Services. A Dental Officer leads the dental team, with the assistance of a Registered Dental Hygienist and a Dental Assistant. Dental facilities for off-site care are readily available nearby in Nassau County.

Special Note Regarding Third Molars/Wisdom Teeth

The Academy staff expects you will arrive at USMMA with no potentially disqualifying dental conditions, i.e. Department of Defense Class 1 dental clearance status. Examples of disqualifying dental conditions include the presence of Third Molars (wisdom teeth), either erupted or impacted, that cannot be maintained in a good state of health. It is highly encouraged for you to visit your family dentist for a thorough dental examination, paying particular attention any condition that may prevent you from performing optimally and could become emergent within 12 months.

These conditions include:
•    Infections;
•    caries / restorations;
•    missing teeth;
•    periodontal conditions;
•    oral surgery (unerupted, partially erupted, malposed teeth with historical, clinical, or radiographic
•    signs or symptoms or pathosis that are recommended for removal); and
•    other disorders or pain dysfunction requiring active treatment.

To allow adequate time for healing, we advise that tooth removal be completed a minimum of 6 weeks prior to Indoctrination. Failure to follow these guidelines could impact on your ability to participate in Indoctrination. Plebe Candidates who do not complete Indoctrination will be returned home to rejoin USMMA the following year.

Immunizations

USMMA requires incoming students to provide proof of vaccination against a variety of diseases. The Academy, like most other institutions of higher education, requires certain vaccinations to protect the health and safety of the student body, particularly when students live, eat, study, and participate in training activities (Sea Year and Indoctrination) in close proximity to each other. Additionally, time aboard ships with a necessary number of sea days is a prescribed part of training activities to successfully complete the Academy's course of study and graduate. The list of vaccinations will be available here https://www.usmma.edu/academy-life/related-health-services-documents beginning April 15th.

The Pre-Admission Immunization Record Summary must be completed by your family physician and shall become part of your Academy health record. This document will be available at https://www.usmma.edu/academy-life/related-health-services-documents beginning April 15th.

Academic Preparation

The Academy’s course of study is rigorous and demanding.  Every midshipman takes at least three mathematics and three science subjects, including two terms of Calculus.  To succeed at Kings Point, it is essential that you come to the Academy with grounding in algebra and trigonometry, and hopefully pre-calculus.

During the Indoctrination period, you will take the Mathematics Evaluation Test.

The test concentrates on topics from algebra, trigonometry, and pre-calculus.  Specific areas covered include basic algebra; linear and quadratic equations; systems of equations and inequalities; properties of functions and modeling; linear, polynomial, and rational functions; exponential functions and logarithms; basic trigonometry, including right triangle trigonometry, and trigonometric functions.

Based on the results of this test you will be assigned to one of the two math courses for your first term:

1)    Calculus 1 with Pre-calculus review (4 credits). This course spends the first three weeks on pre-calculus mathematics and then covers the basic material of a typical first-term calculus course.  The course meets 4 times per week.  You will be placed in this course based on the results of the Indoc math exam.

2)    Calculus 1 (3 credits). This calculus course assumes a strong background knowledge of pre-calculus content such as algebra, trigonometry and functions.  It is geared to students who enter the Academy with a stronger mathematical background.  The course meets 3 times per week.  You will be placed in this course based on the results of the Indoc math exam.

Either course will give you the foundation to continue with the second term calculus courses.

To prepare for your evaluation test and future math and science courses, the Department of Mathematics and Science strongly suggests that you review core mathematical skills.  There are many resources available on- and off- line.  Below are our recommendations:

1) Base your review on Precalculus by Jay Abramson (Arizona State University), available at https://openstax.org/details/books/precalculus (download the PDF for quicker access)

Try to solve the following problems
     pp. 153–159, problems 1–79 (odd)
     pp. 240–244, problems 1–33 (odd)
     pp.404–405, problems 13–23 (odd), 37–39 (odd)
     pp.539–541, problems 1–45(odd)
     pp.626–629, problems 1–49 (odd)
     pp.689–691, problems 7–33 (odd)

Memorize all graphs in appendix A, pages A-1, A-2 (pp. 1283, 1284 in PDF).

Check your answers in the back of the textbook (in Appendix C).  If you get more than a few problems wrong in each chapter, please read over the sections that explain the types of problems you did not solve. You will find worked out examples with similar problems.

Ideally, and if you have enough time, the best thing you can do is to read first Chapters 1, 2, 3 (sections 3.1–3.4 only), 4, 5, 9 (section 9.1–9.3 only).  Pay special attention to the worked-out example problems!

2) Additionally, you may use the following resources:
     Khan Academy (tutorials for algebra, trigonometry, and pre-calculus): https://www.khanacademy.org/

     Stewart’s Calculus Algebra Review (basic algebra for textbook used at USMMA): https://www.stewartcalculus.com/data/default/upfiles/AlgebraReview.pdf

     Paul’s Online Notes, Algebra and Trig Review (geared to calculus students): https://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/Extras/AlgebraTrigReview/AlgebraTrigIntro.aspx

     Purplemath (algebra reviews): https://www.purplemath.com/modules/index.htm

Physical Preparation

Physical Fitness Requirements

As a Midshipman at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, you will be required to maintain the physical fitness standards of the U.S. Navy. During Indoctrination and in each academic term, the Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) will be administered to each Midshipman by the Department of Physical Education, Department of Naval Science, and the Department of the Commandant of Midshipmen.

In order to successfully complete the PFA and the physical fitness requirements of Indoctrination, you must prepare yourself prior to your arrival. Your physical fitness preparation program should be taken seriously and should focus on a challenging training program, nutrition program, and hydration program. This manual will explain the fitness requirements in detail and provide a fitness and nutrition program to help you prepare for the physical fitness challenges at USMMA.

Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA)

To measure the general fitness of the Regiment of Midshipmen, all midshipmen must take a Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) each academic term that they are at Kings Point. The PFA consists of two components, the Body Composition Assessment (BCA) and the Physical Readiness Test (PRT).

Every midshipman must pass both parts of the PFA; failure of any part shall result in assignment to the remedial physical fitness program and may result in dismissal from the Academy.

Body Composition Analysis (BCA)

Body Composition is assessed by height and weight screening, as well as body fat percentage if you fail to meet the height and weight standards. The BCA will be administered on entrance day of Indoctrination.

Step 1- If your weight is within the maximum weight standard for your height, you pass the BCA.
Step 2- If your weight exceeds the maximum weight standard for your height, you do not automatically fail BCA. An Abdominal Circumference (AC) Measurement will be taken for Males and Females at the
superior border of the iliac crest. Males must not exceed 39”, Females 35.5”. If the AC measurement
exceeds these numbers, a BCA will be taken.
Step 3- Body Composition- Males are to be measured at the neck and abdomen and females are to be
measured at the neck, natural waist, and hips, as per the latest Navy regulations. All Midshipmen are
scored under the 20-24 years old age range.

Per the Superintendent Instruction 2025-15, the Passing BCA standards for Midshipmen in the 20-24 years age range are:

Physical Readiness Test (PRT)

The PRT consists of three graded events: plank, push-ups, and the 1.5-mile run. The proper procedure is
described below.

Plank

1. You will begin face down on the deck with elbows bent, forearms flat on deck, with the body in a
straight line through the head, shoulders, back, buttocks and legs.
2. Elbows must be aligned directly below the shoulders at a 90-degree angle between the forearm and upper arm. Hands will either be in fists with the pinky side of the hand touching the deck or lying flat with palms touching the deck. Forearms may be parallel or angled inward, but the hands cannot be clasped together.
3. Feet should be placed hip-width apart. Hips must be lifted off the deck with only the forearms, hands and toes on the deck.
4. Knees are straight, pelvis in a neutral position and back flat. The back, buttocks and legs must be straight from head to heels and must remain so throughout the test.
5. The head and neck should be kept neutral (face looking straight down at the deck) throughout the duration of the test so the body remains straight from the head to the heels.
6. Toes, forearms and fists or palms must remain in contact with the deck at all times and folding of hands is not permitted. No part of your body may contact a vertical support surface.

Example Forearm Planks video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPVKhj3dudA

Push-Ups

1. You will begin in leaning rest position on the deck so that body forms a straight line through the shoulders, back, buttocks, and legs. Weight is supported only with the toes and palm of hands.
2. Arms are to be straight with palms flat on the deck, directly under the shoulders or slightly wider than shoulder width. [Figure 2].  Notice hands are not ahead nor behind the shoulders.
3. You shall lower entire body until arms bend to at least 90 degrees while keeping shoulders, back, buttocks, and legs aligned and parallel to the deck. [Figure 3]
4. You push entire body upward and returns to starting position ensuring arms are fully extended, without locking elbows. [Figure 3]
5. You may rest only in up position maintaining a straight line with shoulders, back, buttocks, and legs.
6. Push-ups are repeated correctly as many times as possible in two minutes.

Example push-ups video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Get-JgZvI0A

1.5 Mile Run

Event consists of running or walking 1.5 miles as quickly as possible on a flat and solid surface track or
outdoor course. Any combination of running or walking is allowed to complete the event.

The minimum passing scores for Midshipmen for the PRT are:

PFA Failures

During Indoctrination

Plebe Candidates who score 100 points or below on their inventory (initial) PRT or above 26% (male)/above 36% (female) body fat in Indoctrination will be separated from the Academy. Individuals separated under this policy are eligible to re-apply for admission, but not guaranteed a re-position. Plebe Candidates who score above 100 points, but below 180 points on their inventory (initial) PRT, fail to perform the minimum requirement on any of the PRT categories, or are between 24-26% (male)/ 34-36% (female) body fat will be placed on Commandant’s fitness probation. These Plebe Candidates may transition into the Regiment, but must pass a PRT with a score of 180 or higher by the end of the 1st Trimester of the Plebe year. Individuals who fail to obtain a score of 180 or higher by the designated time will be placed on Commandant’s Fitness Probation.

Physical Excellence Program (PEP)

PEP is a mandatory program which provides remedial physical training and nutritional instruction for all
Plebe Candidates and Midshipmen who fail any portion of the PFA (Either BCA or PRT).

Swim Qualifications

All students must strive for their highest levels of excellence in physical fitness and swimming skills. Physical fitness and swim testing determine readiness to meet program requirements. Plebe Candidates that do not pass the Indoctrination Swimming test will be required to take remedial swimming.

The INDOC Swimming Test will consist of the following:

-4 lengths of a 25-yard pool (evaluated on skill / not speed)
              *2 of those lengths - freestyle
              *2 of those lengths - stroke of your choice
-10 Minutes of treading water

Fitness Preparation for Indoctrination

May, June, July - Recommended Exercise Routine (Calendars can be found under the "Related Documents" section)
     Active Rest day – walk, hike, bike ride or other mild physical activity
     Rest day – light physical activity in preparation for PRT. Eat healthy foods and hydrate.

 

Stretch Routine

Hydration

In order to meet the physical fitness standards at the Merchant Marine Academy, it is important to maintain the proper levels of hydration. Northern Long Island in the summertime is very hot and very humid. This may come as a bit of a shock to some Plebe Candidates. We cannot understate the importance of appropriate hydration, not only during periods of physical activity, but also during daily training.

To stay hydrated, choose naturally hydrating beverages and foods early and often. Drinking adequate fluid is essential to your well-being and performance. Proper hydration regulates appetite, aids digestion, and improves brain function. Water is best and should be consumed most often, but other natural beverages like green tea and coffee are also fine choices. Drink a tall glass of water first thing in the morning and keep drinking throughout the day. Proper hydration can help you think clearly, retain information, and can reduce stress. The amount of water that you should drink depends on a variety of factors, such as the environment and your activity level; drink at least half your body weight in ounces each day. So, if you weigh 180 pounds, aim for at least 90 ounces of water a day.

Nutrition

As a Midshipman at the United States Merchant Marine Academy, you will be pushed mentally and
physically every day. Nutrition will play a key role in your ability to perform at an optimal level.

What to eat: A balanced meal is one that contains appropriate selections from the five major food groups. The five groups are: fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins and dairy. Use the table below as a guideline for building nutritious meals.

How to eat: Strive to make nutritious choices. The purpose of consuming food is to nourish your mind and your body for performance and recovery. Avoid eating food that provides little nutritional benefit such as processed foods and foods high in sugar.

Balance your diet: Eat healthy food the majority of the time and allow yourself to indulge on occasion.

Sample Eating Strategies:
1. 80/20 Diet - 80% of your meals should be healthy and nutritious, and allow yourself to indulge 20%
of the time.
2. Give yourself a cheat day – Eat nutritiously 6 out of 7 days per week, with 1 cheat day to indulge in
less healthy foods.

Naval Science Indoctrination Package

As a Plebe Candidate, you will be sworn in as Midshipman, Strategic Sealift Midshipman Program, U.S. Navy Reserve (SSMP, USNR).

The Naval Science Welcome Aboard Packet will be included in your Fed Ex packet.  It outlines the additional information required to process your application for appointment as Midshipman, SSMP, USNR. Please follow the instructions in this packet and enclosures carefully. Ensure that all items are prepared prior to your arrival at the Academy. Place all completed documents in a sealed envelope, mark the envelope TO Naval Science FROM (your name). The sealed envelopes will be collected during Indoctrination.  The packet can also be found in the "Related Documents" section.

Get connected:

Alumni Association webpage: https://www.usmmaalumni.com/s/1860/18/home.aspx?gid=2&pgid=61
Parents’ Association webpage: https://www.kpparents.com/s/1860/18/interior.aspx?sid=1860&gid=2&pgid=512

Fed Ex packets with detailed reporting instructions, the "Logging In" booklet, and other pertinent information will be mailed out no later than the first week of May.