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Important information
for Cadet Students

Rook Orientation and Rook Training Program

The Rook Training Program at Norwich University is designed to be physically and mentally challenging. During Rook Orientation and the fall and spring semesters, all Rooks will participate in fitness and adventure-based training activities that may include calisthenics, the high ropes course, rappelling, confidence course, survival swimming, the climbing wall, road marches, river/water obstacle crossing and distance hikes over rugged terrain. Rooks should expect to be exposed to the elements and irritants normally associated with field training. In addition, all Rooks will be issued a non-firing M-14 rifle and will learn the basic manual of arms. Conquering these challenges will build self-confidence, physical strength and endurance as well as promote the team-building and leadership skills essential to the cadet experience. Rooks will be awarded the First Year Training Ribbon for successful completion of the training requirements.

Rook Training and Leave Policy

On most Saturdays, Rooks participate in Corps and military training and, as such, are not eligible for convenience leave. Special leave policies for Parents’ Weekend and Military Balls will be announced in advance. Rooks will be granted leave in the case of a legitimate emergency or for National Guard and Reserve duty after proper coordination with the Office of the Commandant. Excessive leave or absences from training may jeopardize a Rook’s ability to earn the First Year Training Ribbon and may jeopardize his/her continued acceptance by The Corps of Cadets. Please resist the temptation to exempt your Rook from this training.

Rook Leave Policy for Parents’ Weekend

Rooks will be allowed to leave campus after the parade on Friday, Oct. 10 or last academic class, whichever is later, but must return by 0900 (9 a.m.) on Saturday. Rooks may leave again after the football game but must return by 1600 (4 p.m.) on Sunday. In all cases, a parent must accompany Rooks. (The parent does not have to be the Rook’s own parent but could be his/her roommate’s parent, for example.)

PARENTS’ WEEKEND IS HELD DURING A PEAK TOURIST TIME. IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT PARENTS MAKE HOTEL RESERVATIONS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. (View list of local accommodations)

Formal Military Balls

Formal military balls are held several times a year at Norwich University, including the Regimental Ball (October), and the Junior Ring Ball (April). All new cadets look forward to attending these special events so you will want to plan accordingly. Rooks are permitted to invite dates and are granted limited leave privileges for these festive weekends. Ticket prices include dinner, entertainment and dancing and are usually modest but you will want to include these activities in your financial planning.

Housing and Transportation for Holidays & Breaks

The university does not provide transportation or housing for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Spring Break. All students are expected to vacate the barracks prior to the announced closure time as the barracks are closed and secured. Transportation to the airport, bus or train station may be arranged with the assistance of the Commandant’s Office.

Phone Privileges

Phone lines are installed in each barracks room. Rooks will be awarded phone privileges some time during the first semester. Rooks will be permitted to make phone calls at prearranged times during the week and immediately if there is an emergency. Rooks should bring a telephone to use when the privilege is awarded.

Emergency Contact

In an emergency, call the Office of the Commandant at (802) 485-2135. During the evening and on weekends, call the Cadet Guard Room at (802) 485-2589 or Campus Security at (802) 485-2525.

The University Post Office

Norwich has a full-service post office, including United Parcel Service, FAX services and other services as required. Mail is a great morale booster for the entire family! Relatives and friends are encouraged to send letters, school items or room necessities throughout the year. Rooks will be assigned a private Norwich University mailbox upon arrival. Mail sent to Rooks prior to registration should be addressed to:

Student Name
Norwich University
158 Harmon Drive
Northfield, Vermont 05663-1035

Electronic Mail

Rooks will be issued computers accounts providing Internet access by the Computer Services Center at the start of the school year. Rooks will receive e-mail training during the first few weeks of school.

Vehicle Policy

First- and second-year students at Norwich University are not authorized to have a vehicle on campus. Cadets who have a commitment to drill with a National Guard or Reserve unit may be granted an exception to the policy and should contact the Commandant’s Office, 802.485.2135 for information on obtaining permission.

Hair Policy

All incoming Rooks should expect to arrive at Norwich University with a military haircut. For female Rooks, this means hair styled to be worn off the collar. Should you have questions contact the Commandant’s Office, 802.485.2135.