SUNY Maritime College

SUNY Maritime College

Throggs Neck, NY, USA
Public
4 Year

Courtney's Review

Review of SUNY Maritime College

from Bay Shore, NY

Do you feel you’re learning a lot?

When I look at this open box, I am trying to think about how I can even begin to tell you what I've learned at Maritime so far. I am entering my junior year here at the military-lifestyle college. To begin, I guess I should start with the people here at Maritime. The people and the friendships that I have come across have been like nothing I have ever experienced. The boys here are one of a kind, and they will have your back from the very first day of indoc until the day you die. You are forced to be with one another, whether it be on land or in the middle of the ocean, and for some reason it creates a bond. I have learned so much with these friendships alone, I cannot even begin to explain it. You learn respect, tough love, kindness, appreciation, laughter, and how to have one hand for a shipmate. As far as the experience part; Maritime has shown me the world. I have been here for only two years, yet I have seen places no one has even heard of. I have been to Newfoundland, France, Malta, Ireland, Russia, Denmark, Latvia, and Poland. I have seen Spain, Africa, Gibraltar, the Azores, Sweden, Scotland, Sicily, Italy, Canada, and England. I have learned about different people and their cultures. I have learned more about ship life then I can even begin to describe in this tiny box. I have learned about the maritime industry, international trade, the weather, the ocean, the maritime business, our military, how to fight fires, how to save lives, how to launch life boats, how to drive a ship that is 600 ft long, how to tie a million different knots, how to wear a uniform the correct way, how to keep my rack tight enough so a quarter can bounce off of it, and so much more. Maritime is truly one of a kind college and you will come out with so much experience; in friendships, in the working industry, and just in life in general.

Do you enjoy the experience at your school?

This is not a normal college. I do not know what a normal college night is because I do go to Maritime. I am a girl here, one of 26 in my class, and it is not easy. This is not an easy school by any means! But do not let it discourage you. The first year here being a freshman is the hardest! You will not enjoy it, but you will learn from it and appreciate it later on. Your days will be occupied by PT-ing at 0500, followed by breakfast, room inspections, formation, classes, regimental activity, dinner, mandatory study hours, and TAPS. This will be difficult but it will provide you with a structured life that will help you later on in the work field. On another note, the summer sea terms that are required for all USCG licensed cadets will be awesome! You will explore different countries, different people, and a different way of life. For anyone planning to ship out, or even if you just love the water, this is a great experience!

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

I have not graduated Maritime yet, so I personally can not speak for myself. However, I have friends that graduated and from what I've heard, what they tell you is true! You will be graduating with USCG license, a major, and maybe even a minor. You will be taken for a job over a civilian who is applying because you have a structured background. One of my friends just graduated in May and he was hired by MSC (Military Sealift Command); his starting salary is $110,000 per year, plus Navy commission, and he is only 21 years old.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

If you are looking to come here, make sure it's what you want to do. You have to be willing to give up a normal college life Monday through Friday. If you can do that, then you are set. It is a great place to be from, and everyone knows Maritime College. The alumni are great and will provide you with anything you need. The uniforms and the military life-style take some getting used to, but in my own opinion, I think it is worth it. The summer sea terms are a lot of work but it prepares you for the real life of a Coast Guard Officer. Seeing the world is a great opportunity and you will have so much fun in foreign ports. I promise! Our ROTC programs are top of the nation, and our sports team have great coaches. You will truly build your own family at Maritime, one that others will not expect. They will not be going through what you are, but it will be worth it in the end.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

I am no pro at college reviews, but I hope mine has helped you in deciding to come to Maritime. This review is completely honest and truthful. If it has helped you, then I'm glad. If not, my apologizes. If you do plan on coming here, get involved in what Maritime offers. Accept any offers they might give you, including an invite to the Admiral's Dinner, etc. These events have great networking and you will truly benefit from them.