Annapolis Naval Academy....advice, help

[Genesis Academy]

Is there anyone out there who has a son who is passionate about a military career? Anyone whose son wants to go to Annapolis? Are you doing anything different for their junior / senior year to help them meet there goal? If so, would you share?

 

Thanks,

 

Lisa

buettnerpl@alltel.

[CindyPTN]

Hi Lisa,

 

My husband and I both attended the Naval Academy. We are 1999/2000 grads. If you want to PM for more information, then we'll be happy to answer more indepth questions.

 

On a general note, taking the higher level math classes are helpful. Visiting the Academy and attending one of their Week or weekend programs to get a feel of the lifestyle is a great opportunity to see if he'd like the atmosphere. Keeping up academically is only one portion of going to the Academy. I found the acceptance of the Lifestyle is essential to successfully get through the Academy. Academics are important, but can be obtained through all colleges.

 

From a high school perspective, keeping his grades up, sports (or demonstration of physical fitness), extracurricular activities, job (or volunteer work) all contribute to a well rounded application.

 

Please feel free to email. This is short and doesn't justify all the great things that come from attending the Naval Academy. Go Navy!!!

[In The Great White North]

:iagree:The service academies are radically different from "regular" colleges. Those who adapt to the academy lifestyle succeed, and those who cannot or will not adapt, quit. Attitude is the biggest determiner of success.

 

There are two different considerations here: what is needed to get an appointment and what is needed to prepare him for life once he's there.

 

Appointments are competitive, some areas of the country more so than others. He applies to the Academy, your Congressman, both Senators and the Vice President. High SAT and ACT scores, serious college prep course-work, leadership activities, athletics and an interview demonstrate a candidates potential for success. The applications must usually be in by the end of October of his senior year.

 

Once, he's there, the academics will be tough and competitive. The best preparation would be rigorous college prep courses, especially in math and writing. Theoretically, he could get an appointment without calculus but life will be lots easier if he has alreay done some. The ability to whip out a clear, coherent 1000-word essay in a couple of hours will help too.

 

Physical fitness is a big part of the academy lifestyle. He should be able to play a two hours of sports daily and be able to run a couple miles, in step, singing.

 

There are also summer programs at each academy for rising seniors. It's a good way to try it out and see if he really wants it. There is a separate application for this. Check their website or ask the admissions office about it.

 

The Academies have Liaison Officers all over the country to help candidates through this process. Call the admissions office and find out who has your area and give him a call. He'll be able to provide you up-to-date information and encouragement all the way.