Brayden Scharfe, USNA '26, shares insight into the power of professional knowledge, or "pro-know," as we explore its impact on shaping resilient, informed military leaders. Discover how the Naval Academy's rigorous exams and training opportunities serve as a launching pad for future military careers, setting the stage for lifelong learning and friendships.

Learn about "come arounds," where midshipmen get quizzed by the upperclass midshipmen in preparation for the pro-know quizzes on Sunday nights.  But most of all, learn about why the professional knowledge program is so important.  We talk about how it's the foundation for establishing mentor relationships and preparing yourself for summer trainings.

Join us as we journey through the exhilarating summer training experiences that Brayden recounts, from navigating nuclear submarines to engaging in intense exercises at the Mountain Warfare Training Center. Feel the camaraderie and excitement as he shares unforgettable moments from competing against other service academies to forming lasting bonds with fellow midshipmen. This episode is a testament to the enduring friendships and supportive community at the Naval Academy, capturing the essence of resilience and growth within the formidable walls of this esteemed institution.

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 and the USNA Property Network 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 boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

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

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