Just a couple of things that freshman, or four degrees as we call them, go through during their first year at the Air Force Academy.

1. Basic Training

The obvious yet one of the most difficult things that all cadets go through.

2. Running the Strips

Four degrees are required to run the marble strips that line the terrazzo that we have to use to get to different buildings

3. Carrying a backpack in their left hand

This is supposed to teach the four degrees not keep their right hand free in case they ever have to salute an officer.

4. Being in uniform 24/7

Four degrees are not allowed to wear civilian clothing at any time before Recognition with the exception of traveling home.

5. Rooms in SAMI at all times

This is a way of keeping our rooms during Saturday inspections that four degrees are required to do at all times.

6. Using back stairwells at all times

They four degrees cannot use front stairwells like everyone else...mostly because it is a safety hazard.

7. Greeting

Four degrees are required to know all of the upperclassmen in their squadron and greet them by title, name and rank. They are also required to know people in Wing and Group staff.

8. Training Sessions

Four degrees have mandatory training events built through push-ups, sit ups, among other physical training. Some of them help develop leadership skills and other important details of becoming an officer.

9. Knowledge Tests

Four degrees have knowledge that they are required to know from contrails about important figures in the Air Force and different airplanes. They are tested on this information weekly.

10. Recognition

This is the culminating event of four degree year. This is an event that is both mentally and physically challenging for the four degrees.