Agree with both for the most part. A few things to note:
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Spending your extra time studying for the license classes will be much more valuable in the end than a part time job, even if it doesn’t seem like it.
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Many of the graduate classes can be taken online and as a graduate student you don’t have to live on campus. Many grad students do not, but keep in mind NYC area is expensive and the dorms are a real bargain comparatively. I’d opt to stay in a dorm if I were you, and after your first year you can apply to live on the ship in exchange for 20 hours a week of work on the ship. You’re not going to get many dates living under a bridge, but that’s not why you’re there.
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You’ll most likely be gone for (2) 90 day cruises during the summer as a grad license student, unless you cadet ship for your 2nd cruise or don’t take cel nav your second semester. Cadet shipping is a great option but will prolong your studies and there is a significant project involved.
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Weak hiring at job fairs the last several years. Most people getting jobs through cadet ship referrals (internships) or on their own.
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Put in the work, attend every event you
can and introduce yourself to the professionals at these events without being annoying. If you take it seriously and are persistent, you should fare well. -
Possibility to graduate in 2.5 years if you double the first 2 cruises. Take all extra classes you can, like fast rescue boat and the chartering certificate. The classes are expensive to take afterwards. You could coast through the program, but you’re going to be paying a premium as an out of state grad student, so make the most of it.
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Don’t take the regiment too seriously. It’s not bad at all, really, especially as a Day Student. Don’t drink on campus, don’t do drugs (ever in this industry. you’ll screw yourself out of a license), don’t act like an idiot, and you should be fine.