Academy Questions

Future Marine

5-Year Member
Joined
Aug 30, 2011
Messages
6
Hey guys I got a couple questions if you could help me out id appreciate it. I'm getting closer to getting into the USMMA but I still got a few more questions.

(1) I received an email today from a US senator and it didnt say anything but the subject said "Service Academy Submitted". Anyone know what this means?

(2) I want to graduate and go active duty in the marines. Are there any certian classes I have to take?
 
Hey guys I got a couple questions if you could help me out id appreciate it. I'm getting closer to getting into the USMMA but I still got a few more questions.

(1) I received an email today from a US senator and it didnt say anything but the subject said "Service Academy Submitted". Anyone know what this means?

(2) I want to graduate and go active duty in the marines. Are there any certian classes I have to take?

Relative to your first question it's unlikely you'll find the answer here, I suggest you either email or call the Senator's office point of contact and ask them.

On number (2) I have to ask if you definitely want to be an active duty marine why you are pushing to attend the USMMA, it would seem to me the more likely higher preference choices for you would be a) US Naval Academy or b) an NROTC Program with a Marine Corps Option. That said once you get into USMMA which is a long journey you are just starting then if things don't change between now and then there is/are a set of things you can do working with the Marine Corps Liaison Officer on campus during your four years there to be ready for entry into the Corps on active duty upon graduation. That said, you need to be prepared for the fact that the vast majority of your four years at USMMA and the courses you will be taking will have absolutely nothing to do with the Marine Corps and everything to do with preparing you to be a licensed Deck or Engineering officer on U.S. Flagged Commercial Ships.
 
Pretty much because it's too late to start applying to the U.S. Naval Reserve now since I've been working so hard towards the Merchant Marine Academy I'm gonna stick to that. I would have to wait another year if I wanted to get into the Naval Academy most likely and if I don't get in this year then I will go for it but I just see switching choices of academies as an inconvenience right now.
Thanks for your help though I appreciate it, I'll make sure I start working towards it as soon as I get in.
 
Pretty much because it's too late to start applying to the U.S. Naval Reserve now since I've been working so hard towards the Merchant Marine Academy I'm gonna stick to that. I would have to wait another year if I wanted to get into the Naval Academy most likely and if I don't get in this year then I will go for it but I just see switching choices of academies as an inconvenience right now.
Thanks for your help though I appreciate it, I'll make sure I start working towards it as soon as I get in.

You are clearly either a very confused, misguided young man or a troll.

The timelines for applying to Annapolis and Kings Point are quite similar so your last statement makes no sense. Also when you get into USMMA, if you are an American Citizen who receives an appointment, you must accept, if offered a commission in the USNR first as a Midshipman like the current class of 2015 did this weekend and then as an Ensign upon graduation unless they petition and are accepted in moving their commission to another service, such as the Marines. If you are serious about getting into any Academy then you need to really step back, get some good advice and follow it, otherwise you don't have a chance.

If as I suspect you are just a troll, given the numerous, nonsensical posts you have made, I'd suggest you find a better way to get your jollies. Crank phone calls perhaps - "Hello do you have Prince Albert in a can to tobacco stores, etc."

Have a nice life and good luck with answering any sort of interview board questions for your appointment if a) aren't a troll and b) you make it that far.:frown:
 
Internet for Dummies

For those who may be puzzled ...

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
In Internet slang, a troll is someone who posts inflammatory,[2] extraneous, or off-topic messages in an online community, such as an online discussion forum, chat room, or blog, with the primary intent of provoking readers into an emotional response[3] or of otherwise disrupting normal on-topic discussion.[4] The noun troll may refer to the provocative message itself, as in: "That was an excellent troll you posted".

Do Not Feed the Trolls
 
Thank you I did not know the official internet definition of troll. It is true that you learn something new everyday.
 
Future Marine. No question is dumb, just be sure to seek the proper source for information. If you have an academy question, pick up the phone and call admissions. You'll get the official information there. We'd love to help you out. 866-546-4778

LT Broxton
USMMA Admissions
 
Thanks

Thank you Lt. Broxton for guiding this prospective Plebe in the right direction.
 
Future Marine

Hi Future Marine

I think sometimes people post replys and think they are being funny, yet honestly, they are forgetting that they are talking to a 17 year old kid. I'm sure their intentions are good, it's just their delivery is sometimes rude. :thumbdown:

We just went through this process a year ago. I believe the answer to your ? (1) means that your Senator received your packet and it was sent on to the committe to be reviewed! That is a good thing! (I hope you mailed your packet off to both of your Senators and your Congressmen!) I sympathize that it's a grueling process... my advice is to just keep jumping over one hurdle at a time.

The MOST important post here to your ?'s is from Lt. Broxton. If you have ANY ?'s in the future, call the Academy. We called MANY times... always asked for Betty in Admissions, as she was very sweet and helpful.

Good luck to you!:smile:
My DS is very happy... he loves the USMMA... and we couldn't be more proud! :biggrin: The USMMA is an incredible place, and I hope you are successfull with your quest to be in the class of 2016. Best of luck.

Aooga15
 
I would not classify tough love so to speak as being rude. A very knowledgeable alumni who incidentally has his own child at the Academy attempted to give someone a wake up call. jasperdog was far more gentle than FutureMarine would face at TBS should he make it that far. He came in here posting in a flippant manner, suggesting that maybe he would go to KP but only because it would be inconvenient to try for USNA. His posts show either a lack of basic proficiency in english or simple laziness.

He deserved a cyber slap upside the head exactly because he was acting like a "17 year old kid". jasperdog continues to be my cyberhero!
 
Thank-you all for your help on this subject its been a journey getting to where I am in the application process. I am not lazy nor lacking proficiency in English, I just suggested that it is too late to apply for the USNA if I wished to do that. Either way I am not attempting to get into the USNA, I am attempting to get into the USMMA. When you call me a "17 year old kid" it doesn't offend me at all. First off, you all were 17 at one time probably asking close to the same questions I've been asking. I can handle criticism, the fact that you try to make people feel worse about themselves, well thats on you. Thank-you for your input though if you have more to add feel free to do so.
 
I think going to USMMA and then the marine corps could be a great thing. Go for it. And definitely call USMMA admissions and let them help you out.
 
I want to go into the Navy Active Duty and I do not want to go to the USNA. I just like the academic curriculum better at USMMA and the hands on experience.
 
When you call me a "17 year old kid" it doesn't offend me at all. First off, you all were 17 at one time probably asking close to the same questions I've been asking. I can handle criticism, the fact that you try to make people feel worse about themselves, well thats on you.
Yes, I was 17 once and I can even still remember it. I remember that I thought I had everything under control. I remember that I thought I didn't need to listen to someone else's advice because it didn't fit what I thought I already knew. I also remember that it took me three tries to get into Kings Point.

Sometimes advice from older alumni may come across as harsh, but a lot of us share a pet peeve of the militarization of our alma mater. When youngsters proclaim that they intend to pursue an active duty military career before you even set foot on campus it can sound like you intend to use my alma mater, not be a part of its rich traditions. It can rankle the old timers (I'm still not sure yet if that includes me but I feel like it more and more every day) and make them/us sound cantankerous. Up to you if you want to take it personally or not.
 
Yes, I was 17 once and I can even still remember it. I remember that I thought I had everything under control. I remember that I thought I didn't need to listen to someone else's advice because it didn't fit what I thought I already knew. I also remember that it took me three tries to get into Kings Point.

Sometimes advice from older alumni may come across as harsh, but a lot of us share a pet peeve of the militarization of our alma mater. When youngsters proclaim that they intend to pursue an active duty military career before you even set foot on campus it can sound like you intend to use my alma mater, not be a part of its rich traditions. It can rankle the old timers (I'm still not sure yet if that includes me but I feel like it more and more every day) and make them/us sound cantankerous. Up to you if you want to take it personally or not.

Here's a couple of ideas from way out in left field: First, how we all treat others as we would like to be treated. Second, since USMMA is not a Military Academy, perhaps, the option to go directly (almost) into the military is removed as an option.....directing all who enter and graduate to serve the interest(s) of the Merchant Marine industry as THE form of service obligation to be undertaken.
 
Here's a couple of ideas from way out in left field: First, how we all treat others as we would like to be treated.
I wish someone had been more forceful and direct when I was 17. It may just have woken me up and made life a little easier between then and now.

Second, since USMMA is not a Military Academy, perhaps, the option to go directly (almost) into the military is removed as an option.....directing all who enter and graduate to serve the interest(s) of the Merchant Marine industry as THE form of service obligation to be undertaken.
No argument here. I don't know why some people complain that they are being told they have to sail after graduating. What exactly did they think they were signing up for?
 
Have to reply here. I know much has been written on this subject elsewhere ( thanks Jasperdog, Luigi ant hose others who schooled me) When DS started his quest in the spring of 2010 he ( we) really didn't understand the purpose of KP. I know that sounds a little silly since I have stated we read everything there was to read:redface: but it is true. We thought since he originally was seeking a commission is the CG that would be looked upon favorably because he was demonstrating he was serious about "wanting to serve". Only after many months did I realize the opportunities KP offers were so much more! And although the CG is a wonderful thing, the vast array of opportunities to a KP grad are amazing and incredible. That is kind of the big secret about it all! I don't know how much more plain it can be but from my perspective here in the cornfields of middle America, I was a little misinformed to say the least. :thumb:
Another thing about congressional nominations, not knowing where the original poster is from but one may apply to every congress-person in the entire state if they wish. I understand that is generally not needed but good to know if one
is in a very competitive state ( like one that has more than 10 people who have ever heard of KP). Lol. People here have absolutely no idea!
Aooga, another Betty in Admissions fan! Love her! She is so helpful and patient. Also Darlene! Whoot whoot for her too.


Okay, it has been long enough, he is there, doing well, I can tell this story:

DS as I have stated before was of course meticulous in all affairs involving his application. The essay that was to be 250 words max? 250 on the money! Took him weeks to perfect it, lol. Of course he included the word count hopping someone would notice. Well, he hand delivered his application when he went for his overnight visit last August (2010). After he returned he received a Letter from admissions because they wanted him to explain the circumstances of his prior failed attempt at a service academy AND explanation of the circumstances behind his previous arrest!!!:eek:

He called me from home when he received the letter as I was out. I had to hold the phone away from my ear! Lol. I couldn't understand a word he said! He totally flipped out! He rarely ever raises his voice or becomes emotional. Thank goodness he couldn't call Admissions at that moment! Turns out, somehow, still unclear ( we have a couple suspects) his primary electronic application had the answer bubble on "yes" I have been refused entry and "yes" I have been arrested!
He had just returned from what he thought was an awesome visit with an interview ( informal) that he thought he nailed! I said are you sure this isn't a test? A prank? Hazing by the m/n you stayed with? Your brother out to get you? You just missed ? What? Anyway, he handled the entire episode by himself. He asked me "please, please, don't get involved". ( ouch) but he was
right and it was taken care of by Betty and Darlene! He even spoke with some one else who told him he should just fess up now and tell the truth, lol. He decided to call back and talk to someone else. Good call on his part!
Ah, good memories! I have been hanging onto that story for awhile!
 
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So...thanks but...

All, thank you for those who come to/came to my defense that said it won't surprise you, I don't feel I needed you to do so, I've looked at my prior responses here and to the other posts that FutureMarine has made on this forum, I've replied to several and have tried to convey simple direct answers. If you go back through this and related threads I hope you'll see that to be true.

aaooga15: Sorry if you feel/choose to characterize my response as being rude. I've looked at it and my others to FutureMarine, in the world I live in I'd call them direct and blunt; at worst I'd even have to give you and FutureMarine at least a partial nod if you choose to take my last reply as terse. But "rude"? I can't agree, not at all, especially if you look at the tone and tenor of FutureMarine's posts and replies here, they are merely replying in kind - direct and to the point. BTW, as a USMMA graduate, I will proudly state I learned to be that way (direct and to the point) at the USMMA and it has served me very well during my 29 year professional career since graduating. I'd suspect that it's a quality that is still generally shared by Kings Pointers I certainly see it in my son and his Classmates in 2012 and I'd be surprised if it doesn't get instilled in the Class of 2015 since some of one's biggest influences at the USMMA are the First Classmen you meet and deal with while you are a Plebe.

2013Parent - 1) I did treat the poster as I would like to be treated, repeatedly, including here - I answered their questions, even their last ones, which they posted and responded to after I felt (which I still feel) they are a troll. 2) re:

Second, since USMMA is not a Military Academy, perhaps, the option to go directly (almost) into the military is removed as an option.....directing all who enter and graduate to serve the interest(s) of the Merchant Marine industry as THE form of service obligation to be undertaken.

While perhaps KPEngineer agrees and would prefer to have this debate, it's really not on topic USMMA graduates don't have the option to go "almost" directly into the military; they have the option to apply and, if accepted, go "directly" directly into the military on active duty to satisfy their service obligations. As a parent of current mid you no doubt know that as well as the fact that they are currently in the military - the U.S. Naval Reserve as well; I merely post the statement here in case someone chooses to misunderstand your post as they did mine. While I agree with KPEngineer that the primary purpose and mission of the USMMA is to develop and train leaders for the US Maritime Industry, I would not be in favor of seeing the option of going directly into active duty to fulfill their obligation removed for new grads in this or any future class. I do try and support all efforts by the current Academy Staff to create a tone, tenor, and atmosphere such that graduating class move back towards the 15-20% going active duty vice the ~30% that was the case in the Class of 2010.


KingsPointDiversity: First I'll point out that the advice to contact the admissions office that you gave is indeed the same advice I gave FutureMarine in response to his first posts here. That said, I'll respectfully disagree, IMO there are indeed dumb questions, especially ones that are repeatedly posted in ignorance, after someone gets a number of informed, respectful, replies. Further, as I indicate there are people who get a kick out of being internet trolls (just as there are people who take your videos and re-splice them into things you never intended to poke fun at USMMA in advance of the USMMA-USCGA Football game). Further, as I believe you'll agree, the information I conveyed is correct, the "normal application process and calendar/timeline" for all of the Federal Academies that require a Congressional Nomination/Appointment are very similar so if the PC doesn't have what they need together to apply for USNA Class of 2016 at this time they are quickly coming against the stops but they likely have about the same amount of time left to apply to USMMA Class of 2016.

As you know, the time to have your appointment application to the various nominating authorities deadlines generally range from the middle of this month until 1 November. The latest you can have an application packet to your office (USMMA Admissions) - USMMA Application Package deadline to admissions for Class of 2016: 3/1/2012 per the website; USNA: per their website 3/1/2012. Congressional Nominating authorities as you know have schedules that vary from nominating authority to authority but generally the nominations process and calendar of an individual authority is the same for all the Academies they can make nominations to. Also in general they want to close receipt of applications between 9/15 and 11/1; complete their interviews if that's part of the process by Christmas; and issue nominations in January. I could post links to my earlier replies where I suggested FutureMarine and others call admissions and go on an overnight visit - I'm pretty sure a scan of my posts to PCs will bear me out - that's what I always tell PCs. All that said, this PCs the repeated asking of strange and uniformed questions with the steadfast, and almost dogmatic accompanying statements about how they want to go to USMMA and become an active duty Marine clearly made me suspect their motives at posting rather than as you point out just picking up the phone and calling Admissions. Something that as everyone here, myself included, generally knows results in the phone being answered by a courteous and helpful individual.

If you look at this PCs posts here and on the USMA forum, in addition to posting numerous questions repeatedly on multiple forums, a practice which is against these forums policies; the posts and questions are filled with the misstatements and misconceptions that they describe in some detail and respond to straightforward answers with follow-up questions like "Are you sure?" Further, even if only half of theses misconceptions are true/accurately stated form the PC's perspective, there is no way they have properly started or completed the application process for entry to either the entering Class of 2016 or 2017. I do agree they should talk to someone that can help them - that's the initial response I gave FutureMarine to their first questions that they apparently ignored, perhaps they'll take the same advice now that you've provided it to them. If they are not a troll, I hope for their sake they do. If they don't no sweat off m back, I've got my USMMA Degree and ring; my own son has his ring and as long as he doesn't do anything patently stupid will have his degree and license on June 18, 2012. The failure to take that advice the first couple of times it was given in response to these types of questions is what makes me say there are indeed "dumb" questions.

Be well all and Acta Non Verba!
 
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Jdog, I agree with your skepticism however, I sometimes add a comment for the next legit prospective candidate or their parents. I lurked around quite a bit before I actually became a member and began my prolific posting party! :thumb:
I suspect many others do as well. Actually I met one from Florida at Parents Weekend..
 
...

Best of luck to you Future Marine.
Any further questions, please just call Admissions and ask for Betty.
Lynpar- yah, I like the parent fb page so much better! :rolleyes:
Jasperdog and KPEngineer- you are both valuable voices on this forum sight.
There's no need to defend yourselves or defend each other. Your opinions are respected. Yet, speaking to a minor whom is going through the application process doesn't require "tough love" or a "wake up call" or even a "cyber slap". If and when Future Marine gets to the USMMA, I'm sure many DI's will happily give him tough love, a wake up call, and many other things! Then, and only then, is that appropriate.
Good weekend to all.
Aooga15
 
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