My son is an NROTC Senior. He did the SPECWAR Cruise this summer. All of the advice given is correct from his experience. He is 1st in his class in grades and PRT scores. He works very hard. There are no sure things.
My son is in NROTC Class of 2011, He was told that the change would affect his class and beyond, It was primarily focused on aviation because of the training class backup.
My son interviewed by a Master Chief who came to our house. He wore khaki pants and a polo shirt. He followed the above advice. I heard a bit of the interview from the second floor. Note to parents: it is your son or daughters interview - not yours.