more than just a college
The US Military Academy is more than just a college, it is a training tool for the US government. A free, great college education in return for service in the US armed forces. As such, you can expect that the USMA experience will be different than the average state college, it will be different than am ROTC program, it will be different than OCS, it will be different than Boot camp. The experience will be the culmination of all of these things and none of theses things all at the same time. The school is intended to make good US citizens and soldiers and thus you will experience a unique mixture of both civilian and military life that can only be offered at West Point (or other service academies). You will take classes like all of your other friends at regular colleges, but unlike them you will be participating in a sport(mandatory for all cadets), you can't skip class to go party because you will have physical training early the next morning and may have to practice for upcoming physical tests or other field tests. The schools first year is designed to take out anyone who is not truly cut out for the military or not able to handle stress. The faculty and other cadets purposefully overload plebes( First year cadets) to see how they will react in stressful situations, much as combat could be. The part that often attracts those right for the job is the sense of pride that comes with serving your country and the connections in the civilian world if and when you decide to leave after your 8 years are finished with. Many however decide to stay after the 8 year commitment because of the great experience. The Point is more than just your average school, it is a challenge, but if you're strong enough you may just be able to join the hallowed long grey line.