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Did you hear your Plebe say they have to complete their signature sheet and you have no idea what that means? Join Nicki DeGuzman and I as we unravel the humor and camaraderie behind this quirky tradition. 

However here is a ⚠️ WARNING ⚠️

Much of what you'll hear in this episode is no longer continuing at USNA.  Tasks associated with earning a signature are no longer allowed.  Therefore, a Plebe will earn a signature by going to meet the upperclass midshipman, learning where they are from, and talking to them about their major, intended service selection, and other personal & mentorship topics.

So many of these sea stories you hear in this episode will not take place for the class of 2028.

But in this episode, Nicki shares how signature sheets helped him break the ice and form lasting bonds amidst the rigors of Academy life. From professional tasks to hilarious impromptu performances, discover the multifaceted approaches upperclassmen use to engage plebes.

Explore the diverse and entertaining methods midshipmen employ to make plebes earn their signatures. Whether it's through challenging physical feats or lighthearted assignments like freestyle raps and video game duels, Nicki and I recount the numerous ways in which these tasks reveal the unique company culture at the Academy. Listen to stories of plebes pushing their limits, navigating Bancroft Hall, and balancing academics, all while forging strong connections with their upperclassmen and peers.

Get ready for a hearty laugh and some heartfelt moments as we recount the lengths to which plebes go to meet expectations and secure those coveted signatures. Hear about inventive tactics like the "brother" switcheroo and the importance of learning everyone's names within the company. By the end, you'll understand how these traditions not only build internal unity but also encourage plebes to maintain connections with loved

The Vermeer Group is a residential real company matching military families with trusted real estate teams across the country.  If you have any real estate questions at all, please text Grant at (650) 282-1964 or email [email protected]

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The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.

Grant Vermeer your host is the person who started it all. He is the founder of Academy Insider and the host of The Academy Insider podcast. He was a recruited athlete which brought him to Annapolis where he was a four year member of the varsity basketball team. He was a cyber operations major and commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community. He was stationed at Fort Meade and supported the Subsurface Direct Support mission.

He separated from the Navy in 2023 and now owns The Vermeer Group, a residential real estate company that matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country. Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

We are here to be your guide through the USNA experience.

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If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: email [email protected] or text Grant at (443) 951-3064