United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA)

The United States Merchant Marine Academy provides students with the opportunity to receive a highly rewarding education at a prestigious institution. When undergraduates arrive at the academy, they become part of "a group of elite students who work hard and [are] honest and patriotic." USMMA is known as "a school that requires plenty of effort on behalf of the student." Most professors are described as "very intelligent" and "fair, approachable, and extremely helpful," which is an advantage in this "fast-paced classroom environment" where the academic program is "extremely difficult." One enrollee distills their experience by saying, "The opportunities afforded by this academy are unparalleled by any other college I have come across. Despite the immense sacrifices and hardships of this school, it is completely worth it for the right person."

Students at USMMA are consistently described as “hardworking and serious,” regardless of whether they plan to work in the maritime industry or enlist in the military after graduation. As one undergrad puts it, “If you aren’t willing to work, you won’t be here long.” While it may seem that the majority of students are “white, conservative male[s],” the student body at USMMA is made up of individuals with a wide range of viewpoints, experiences, and backgrounds. Students are described as “respectful,” “athletic,” and “outgoing,” united by a common desire to serve and be part of something bigger than themselves. One student says, “The typical student has tons on [their] plate, whether it’s regimental duties or academic ones. [However], no matter what, if you need help with something, somebody will be there for you.” Another student agrees, saying, “The students here are all a family. Each one of us here at the Merchant Marine Academy [has] experienced the same rigorous training and tough treatment plebe year. We all work together in everything we do, and without one another, it is almost impossible to succeed at the Academy.”

While students maintain a strict weekday schedule, “most time [is] spent either in class, studying, or working out,” they manage to find time to relax and connect with one another. “When the spring comes, everyone gets out to play rec sports (Ultimate Frisbee, tag football, soccer, swim, or bike ride) and goes to the park to BBQ.” Undergrads are realistic about day-to-day life here, with one stating, “It is a military academy; fun is generally limited.” However, another student shares, “We have a good time, and usually, it is the little things that make us happy. We enjoy hanging out on weekends and doing things that normal college students would do. Recently a few friends and I had a Nerf gun battle, which was pretty fun.” When it’s permitted, students are eager to venture off campus and explore what the surrounding area has to offer. The Merchant Marine Academy is located on Long Island, “only twenty minutes from downtown NYC.” Matriculants enjoy heading to the city for restaurants, movies, live entertainment, and the chance to mingle with civilians. As one student states, “We work hard all week, but when it comes time, we get to play hard as well.”

Depending on whether one’s focus was on transportation or engineering, a graduate can sit for different licenses and certifications that determine their career. Unlike the other military academies, USMMA graduates are required to fulfill their service obligation on their own in a wide variety of occupations, and must just provide proof of employment. Acceptable options include employment on any U.S. flagged merchant vessels, as civilians in the maritime industry, or as active duty officers in any branch of the U.S. armed forces. All graduates must maintain their merchant marine officer’s license for six years.