Virginia Military Institute - Bomb Yearbook (Lexington, VA)

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model cadet she once invisioned. In the final year as a cadet, the rat system once again becomes an important part of cadet life. It is the first class that will set the example and encourage the rats along the straight and narrow path that will get him through VMI. First class year does not end too soon and graduation is the most important thing that will happen to a cadet. When the day comes, the happiness in the faces of parents, girlfriends, and family is easy to see. If one was to take pictures of the rat and the now graduat- ing first classman it is easy to see a great difference. The change that has occurred over the four years is remarkable. Standing before his parents and loved ones is the VMI Man. This man has proven that he can withstand strains and pres- sures the average college student does not encounter. This man has also proven himself to be honorable and has passed the main test at VMI, which is to be whatever one resolves to be. As he filters out into the life after VMI many things will be expected of the VMI man, as well they should be. It is this man that will accomplish not only those tasks asked of him, but many more. Thus, the tradition and excellence of VMI will be carried on, through this, the newest VMI Man. Through Winter 6 Introduction

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one can see the difference. After the Christmas break the rat returns not knowing what to expect, and by this point, not really caring. His thoughts, and energy are channeled towards breakout. Once the rats break out of the ratline they are considered to be cadets and are treated accordingly. During the first year all a rat has to look forward to is Breakout. After seeing his dykes leave, a rat now realizes that he is on his own and the third class year is quickly approaching Coming back after a seemingly short summer, the new third classman must accept new responsi- bilities. Some may be corporals and others choose the road of private. The major change in the third class year is that a cadet must learn to organize his time. This year is usually a traumatic change from rat year and many fall by the wayside due to grades. Hence the third class year is often called the academic ratline. At the end of the third class year there is not much to look forward to unless one attends camp or goes on second class cruise. At this point the cadet is half way to becoming the VMl man. Another memory filled year has passed and the cadet now looks forward Ring Figure and life as a second classman. Everything during the first semes- ter is geared towards the big weekend. Romanc- ing the Stone comes and goes and the second must now think about the academics that lay ahead. The major changes during the junior year and the new and greater responsibilies that the cadet has brings one more respect in the Corps. The second classmen are often leaders of clubs, organizations, and outfits within the corps. This year also prepares one for the trials that the first class year will bring. With the advent of his senior year the cadet now realizes that he runs barracks. When parent ' s week- end arrives, the mothers of the one half that have survived are justifiably proud. She now sees that To Fall Introduction 5

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To Spring Introduction 7