Cadet Journey West Point’s 47-month experience is full of opportunities designed to help cadets develop into leaders of character and to forge the memories and connections that are a hallmark of the Long Gray Line. Cadet Journey West Point’s 47-month experience is full of opportunities designed to help cadets develop into leaders of character and to forge the memories and connections that are a hallmark of the Long Gray Line. The West Point Experience West Point challenges cadets to become the best versions of themselves. Through a 47-month experience, cadets are exposed to academic, military, and physical opportunities that develop them into leaders of character. Along the way, cadets experience one-of-a-kind traditions and events that help them forge friendships and memories that last a lifetime - marking them as valued members of the storied Long Gray Line. Explore leadership development at West Point "West Point doesn't have fraternities, or sororities, or secret societies. Its graduates think of themselves as part of one Long Gray Line that stretches right back to that very first class of 1802. They are part of a huge extended family that finds unity in a common experience... To West Pointers, those three words, "Duty, Honor, Country," are more than a motto. They are immortal ideals that guide your life." Milestones Every year at the academy includes memorable moments – activities, ceremonies, and events shared by generations of cadets that contribute to a once in a lifetime developmental experience like no other. Explore first year Explore second year Explore third year Explore fourth year Cadet Life While West Point has some things in common with other colleges, cadets' lives are full of amazing experiences unique to their "Rockbound Highland Home" on the Hudson River. Explore a day in the life of a cadet Explore cadet housing Explore clubs and activities Explore traditions Character Carved in Stone Explore the walking tour "Duty-Honor-Country. Those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, and what you will be. They are your rallying points: to build courage when courage seems to fail; to regain faith when there seems to be little cause for faith; to create hope when hope becomes forlorn.“ Cadet Support USMA provides an array of support services to help cadets reach their potential. The academy focuses on developing leaders holistically – and offers resources to support cadets on their individual journeys. Explore academic support Explore cadet wellness Cadet Community Esprit de Corps, camaraderie – whatever you choose to call it, cadets are part of a cohesive, vibrant community unlike any other. Explore the cadet community The Journey Continues West Point graduates go on to serve as leaders of character in many walks of life both in and out of uniform - and are part of the most highly connected alumni body in the world. After Graduation After graduation, all cadets become Second Lieutenants in the Army. But before moving to their first unit, they attend a basic officer leader course and other training courses with Lieutenants from programs around the country - to further build their knowledge and develop expertise in their chosen career field. Explore Army career fields Post Military Life Regardless of how long they choose to serve in the Army, graduates eventually hang up their uniform. But their service doesn't stop there. Academy graduates are highly sought after in virtually every imaginable career field - many obtaining graduate degrees from top institutions and achieving success at the highest level. Learn about life after the Army Service in Uniform Graduates serve in uniform for a minimum of eight years, in one of a number of different military specialties or "branches". During this time, they train, lead Soldiers, travel, interact with military personnel from other countries, and serve the nation in myriad ways. Explore service in uniform The Long Gray Line Regardless of how long a graduate decides to serve in uniform, all West Point graduates become valued members of the Long Gray Line - the most connected alumni body in the world. Learn about the Long Gray Line Explore West Point Launch Experience Explore West Point Explore athletic facilities Explore the history of West Point Follow us on social media Keep up with the latest at West Point