Welcome to the 2026+3 Rat Mass at VMI!

Follow along on the journey as the Institute forges its latest recruits into 21st century leaders ready to serve and lead with honor and integrity. Find highlights of milestones as well as the daily life of a rat - a first-year student at the Institute - as they face challenges and work to earn the right to be called a cadet and member of the Class of 2029.

---

Matriculation Day

The journey of 469 new recruits began Saturday, Aug. 16 as appointed students arrived on post for Matriculation Day. From there, they collected gear, checked into barracks, signed the Matriculation Book, and were called down to their companies to take their oath and begin the Rat Line.

This newest group to choose No Ordinary College comes from 33 states and six foreign countries, with 62% from Virginia and 38% from out of state. Seventy-five are female, and 143 are recruited NCAA athletes. Forty-seven percent have selected a major in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) disciplines and 53% are majoring in the liberal arts.

---

Matriculation Week

As the morning of Sunday, Aug. 17 began, so did the first major challenge facing the Rat Mass - a full week of training spanning physical fitness tests and workouts, military precision drills, and the customs and regulations that define the oldest state-sponsored military college in the United States. From early morning workouts, to studying the Rat Bible in barracks, to hiking up House Mountain, the rats learn from their cadre and work together to embrace the esprit de Corps and brother rat spirit that defines VMI.

---

Rat Crucible

The Rat Mass endured several strength and fitness stations throughout post their second Sunday on post for the annual Rat Crucible. From log carries and swimming at Jordan's Point to drills on the field, each leaned on their brother rats for the strength to pull through this challenge. This events is a true test of not only physical fitness and strength, but determination and commitment to excellence and the VMI system.

---

Putting in the Work

The Rat Mass works throughout their first months at the Institute to adapt to and master the challenges and expectations of the Institute. Much of this is seen in physical training and challenges, led by cadre, cadet leadership, and the ever-watchful Rat Disciplinary Committee (RDC). Highlights of this time include the Rat Olympics, where companies compete for bragging rights while demonstrating teamwork and grit, and the Rat Dyke March, exemplifying the bond between Corps mentors and these newest members of the VMI community.

---

BREAKOUT

January 24, 2026: Breakout. This time-honored test of discipline and determination sets the tone for the rest of a cadet's time at VMI. No shortcuts, no excuses—just grit, resilience, and strength. This is where greatness begins, culminating with some the most moving scenes of the four years at VMI — when the class if officially formed and the title of Class of 2029 is heard in the Old Yell for the first time. Earned. Never Given.