You really can't do anything on the application until the SSk opens up, BUT you can start preparing and gathering info for the SSK so that when it does open you - can complete the file as soon as possible.
Things you can do this Spring:
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Take the ACT and SAT. Take as many times as you need to get your scores in the competitive level. West Point superscores (they take the best scores on each subsection each time you take a test) so there is no penalty to taking these as many times as you can. Make sure you take the ACT plus writing.
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Get in shape for the CFA. If you go to SLS, that is a great time to take it. IF you pass, you will have it out of the way and will have that requirement checked off on your application. Even if you don't go to SLS, still work on preparing for it and plan to take and pass this summer.
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You will need 3 SOEs ( School Officials Evaluation). One each from a Math, English and Chemistry or Physics teacher. Start to think about which teachers you want to write your SOEs. Get to know them. At the end of the year, tell them that you would like them to write your SOE. When you SSK opens up, it will give you instructions on requesting the SOE from them. Hopefully by giving them a heads up, they will get it done before they start back to school for the Fall.
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You will need a 6th semester transcript. Alert the appropriate person at your school by the end of your Junior year that you will be needing it over the summer. They can tell you when they will be in the office over the summer so you can expedite that as soon as possible. That is one thing that can be sent as soon as your SSK opens.
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Keep your grades up. Class rank is important!
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Research about your nominations. You need to apply to ALL noms that you are qualified for. Go to the West Point Admissions web site section on nominations (
http://admissions.usma.edu/prospectus/step_02.cfm) and determine which nominations you are qualified for. Pull up the web sites of your 2 US Senators, your US District Representative and the VP and look at the things that they will require of you on your application to them for a nomination. Make note of their deadlines!
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Stay involved in your extra curricular activities.
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Excel in your sport(s). Strive to be Captain.
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Touch base with your MALO/FFR. Ask them to let you know of any West Point information meetings in your area.
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Consider applying for Boys State if you don't go to SLS.
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Start preparing your resume. Write down all your activities and awards since 9th grade. You may be surprised that you will have forgotten some things. I bet mom/dad haven't though, so get their input to refresh your memory.
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Schedule your DoDMERB exam as soon as you are notified to. If you feel that you may have a medical issue that could be a problem, be proactive. Email Mr. Mullen at DoDMERB (contact info is on DoDMERB forum) and ask about your medical issue.
You will read over and over on this forum to get your file completed as soon as you can. The above will help you do that. West Point recommends that your file be finished No Later Than Oct.31. However, even sooner is better!
You can always update your file with additional activities/awards/test scores, so don't let that hold you back.
Good Luck!
Work on getting into shape for SLS because you can take the CFA there but be careful they test harder. There is lots of other things you can work on such as community service, leadership activities, etc. best of luck to you in your admissions process!