Hargrave Military Academy - Review #6

The military aspect of Hargrave and the institution of the military model for the organization and function of the student body does well to develop in the students qualities such as leadership, integrity, self-discipline, and work-ethic.

The best thing that happened to me would be my achievement of an NROTC Scholarship to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. I was able to do this through the doors opened to me by Hargrave. Also, I am extremely excited and confident to begin college, as I believe Hargrave has prepared me very well.

My advice is that you pick your friends very carefully. You will become what you associate with. Keep your goals in mind and do not be swayed by peer pressure.

I positively loved the military aspect of the school. I love the order, discipline, regimentation, and schedule. My ambitions are toward the military, and I believe it has given me a good start toward that end.

Work within the system. Fighting it will only make things difficult, and ultimately the school will win. When, you come, go check out the Quartermaster and tell him Harrison sent you. Lastly, Alpha Barracks(Barracks 700) is where its at.

I liked most the fact that all of my teachers were very accomplished and knowledgeable in their fields. The classes were very interesting and engaging (the majority of the time). Also, the teachers were always readily available if ever I needed extra help on a topic.

As a USA Swimmer, I do not have a great deal of experience with the other sports groups. However, I liked most the fact that the coaches (particularly in swimming) are very accomplished. The swim coach has many years Olympic experience. Also, the facilities are superb.

As a Military School, Hargrave has a marching and bagpipes band. However, I did not participate.

Hargrave always had a wide variety of activities in which to participate on the weekends. These ranged from weekly movie trips to high level sports games (NBA, etc). Also, there are numerous clubs centering around a very wide variety of topics. Also, there was weekend paintball and a Tae Kwon Do program on Saturdays.

As a military school, we lived on a barracks. Rooms are assigned and wake and sleep time is regimented. Food can be kept in rooms, but otherwise is not accessible during late hours. However, barracks life was quite enjoyable as it allows one to become very close to his fellow barracks mates.

The mess hall is regimented and the cadets eat with their respective companies when called. Hours are 0615 to 0715, 1230-1330, and 1800-1915. The food is good and of a decent variety and the food service members are friendly and helpful.

Hargrave is situated just outside the small town of Chatham. During weekends cadets are allowed to walk into town where there are a few restaurants and coffee shops. Personally, I liked the fact that the area is rural and peaceful.

We were a band of brothers and it was a lot of fun. There is a girls school across town, so on weekends company could be had in town. Because we lived on barracks, we became close friends with each other and always found amusing ways to have fun and entertain ourselves.