The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) is a special school where people learn how to become sailors and work on ships that move goods and people across the sea. It's like a regular school, but instead of just learning about math, science, and history, students also learn about things like engines, navigation, and how to tie knots.
The school is run by the government of the United States, and it's located in Kings Point, New York. The students at USMMA are called midshipmen or "Mids" for short.
To become a Mid, you have to apply to the school and go through a very strict selection process. If you're chosen, you'll spend four years living on campus and going to classes. You'll also spend time on ships, getting real-world experience in the field.
One of the coolest things about the USMMA is that after graduating, Mids have to work for the government for at least five years. This means they'll get to travel all over the world, see new places, and meet interesting people. Plus, they get paid while doing it!
Overall, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is a school that teaches people how to work on ships and move goods and people across the sea. It's a unique opportunity for those who love the ocean and want to serve their country.