Application Advice

The most valuable piece of advice I have for applicants is to take advantage of every oppurtunity that comes your way. If your high school experience is anything like mine was, you have a multitude of different choices to make. What clubs to join, jobs to apply for, summer programs to participate in, and sports to compete in. You may be having a hard time figuring out what you should be doing with your time, and my answer to you is, everything. Well-roundedness is the key to an amazing application. If your school lacks activities that interest you, take the initiative and start a club, don’t hesitate to create your own leadership opportunities. Your first couple years of high school are imperative in helping figure out what your interests are, so that when the time comes for you to apply to college, you’ll have a solid resume that reflects your strengths. The more activities you participate in, the more you’ll learn about your personal interests and life goals.

There are many different activities the academy offers for prospective cadets, if you’re truly interested in applying you should participate in as many as you can, so that when you do apply, and maybe even accept your appointment, you’ll be making an informed decision. Some of the programs the academy offers that I participated in include The Academy Introduction Mission (AIM), Cadet for a Day, and other local admissions events. I strongly recommend that anyone interested in the academy submit an application for AIM. If you get accepted, you’ll have the opportunity to experience a snapshot of academy life, meet current cadets, and other potential applicants. If you don’t get accepted, you’ll still be showing your interest in applying. As a fourth-class cadet who did AIM, I run into at least one of my AIM cadre daily, who are now first-class cadets. Not only has a good percentage of my AIM platoon joined me in the Class of 2028, but both of my AIM roommates are here with me. The connections I made in AIM were extremely valuable, and the program made my decision to apply even more concrete.

Another benefit to applying for these programs is that it shows that you are truly interested in the academy, which is a key component of your application. The academy does not want to give appointments to people who they don’t think will accept them. Other than applying for events and programs the academy offers, another great way to show interest is to reach out to your admissions officer. Asking your admissions officer any questions you might have is a crucial step in showing that you are interested.  Even after you’ve submitted your application it’s very important for you to keep your admissions officer updated on improved PFE scores, transcripts, awards, and other important updates. By showing that you are working hard to improve your application, you are telling them that you have what it takes to be a cadet, a constant goal to improve and become the best version of yourself. If you are an athlete, it’s crucial for you to reach out to the coaches at the academy. Even if you’re not a committed athlete, reaching out is a great way to show you are interested.