Performed like new cadet (5)
I believe the answer is:
acted
'performed' is the definition.
(acting is a kind of performing)
'new cadet' is the wordplay.
'new' indicates an anagram.
'cadet' anagrammed gives 'ACTED'.
'like' is the link.
(Other definitions for acted that I've seen before include "Took part in play" , "produced an effect" , "Played a 30ac" , "Behaved or played a part" , "Played a role" .)