Let me turn now to some of the common 'pitfalls' we feel account for cadets' difficulties with our program. Time management is a common failing. Parents could encourage their cadets to develop effective time-management strategies, identify priorities, set goals, and control how they use time. Cadets' time is less 'programmed', especially in the academic year, than many realize Cadets resist studying during absences from the Academy. Parents could encourage them to study when visiting home, pointing out that successful lifelong learners never miss an opportunity.
Cadets are reluctant to use our student support services.
We have quite a 'safety net', and our teaching faculty is well known for their interest and willingness to help individual cadets who ask. Parents could help them understand that to seek help is not a sign of weakness. Cadets whose heart isn't in it are sometimes pressured to stay. This frequently makes matters worse. Parents could talk with their cadets and help them follow their hearts.