SHOW NOTES:
This episode features Abigail Robson, a 2007 graduate from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. In this episode, you’ll hear how Abby grew up around ships and knew she wanted to join the merchant marine from a very young age; her struggles adjusting to the military lifestyle at Kings Point; how her priorities evolved and changed, both at the Academy and during her career; and how she ultimately decided to pivot away from sailing towards a new career as a pastry chef. This episode is a lot of fun, especially as Abby dives into the ways in which she’s been able to transfer her skills from sailing to baking. Enjoy the show!
KEY TOPICS OF DISCUSSION:
- Growing up around ships and sailing.
- Attending a Service Academy without fully understanding the military lifestyle.
- Deciding to pivot away from sailing and become a pastry chef.
0:52 INTRODUCTION:
- Can you tell everyone where you’re from? What school you went to and when you graduated?
- Can you give everyone 1-2 lines about who you are?
1:45 PART I:
- What made you choose a Service Academy – and what made you specifically choose the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy?
- Wanting to follow her dad’s footsteps going to KP.
- What about the maritime industry caught your eye growing up?
- Was it a struggle for you to get in or was it pretty straight forward?
10:00 PART II:
- How did you feel about the military aspect of the Academy?
- Did you make a trip up to visit before you went?
- If you had to sum up your time at the Academy in one word, what would it be?
- Tell me about indoc and your introduction to the regiment.
- How did you do once the academic year hit?
20:00 PART III:
- What was your goal? Did you know whether you wanted to go deck or engine?
- Let’s dive into some of your highlights at the Academy.
- Making the decision to leave the dinghy sailing team.
- The highs and lows of sea year.
30:55 PART IV:
- Were there any major lowlights you want to share?
- What were the key lessons you learned at the Academy?
- What was the plan as you approached graduation?
- Her experience on her first job post graduation.
41:00 PART V:
- What was your experience being a woman on a ship as an officer?
- Getting a reputation for being tough.
- Did you like your time sailing?
- Transitioning out of sailing and trying to figure out what to do next.
49:00 CONCLUDING THOUGHTS:
- How she started out as a pastry chef.
- Learning that she’s creative.
- What’s next for you?
- How do you currently feel about your decision to attend an Academy?
- Do you have any parting words for listeners? Perhaps a key message to your fellow Service Academy sisters?
- What’s one random fun fact about you?
- Where can people reach you?
Instagram: @abigailrobson1985
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abigail.robson.1
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