Congressional Nominations - Now I'm confused

[evilpoptart]

So after submitting my packet I received an email saying to contact my congressional representative, senators, etc. So I email my representative, gave a short summary of myself (explaining I was currently USAR) and they replied saying...

"Do you plan to apply through the military or through the regular application process? If you are only applying through the military, you do not need a congressional nomination. If you are applying through the regular process, I will need to mail you an application packet that will explain everything we will need from you to apply."

Does that mean I started my entire packet wrong? That I do not need a congressional nomination at all? Granted, I am in a training division for Command and General Staff College, so I run around with nothing but LTC's that are more than willing to write me letters of recommendation.

What do I do from here?

Thanks,
Matt

 

[evilpoptart]

I just found this.

http://admissions.usma.edu/Soldiers/

It explains that I do not NEED a congressional nomination, but it is still encouraged.

Now comes the question, If I still want this congressional nomination, I would have to wait until November to do it. I plan on being done with the entire application process, well before then. So would it be at my disadvantage of waiting for it?

 

[Just_A_Mom]

Are you working with the admissions officer assigned to soldiers at West Point? This is the best person to guide you and answer all your questions.

Since you are enlisted you qualify for a "service connected nomination". You can be appointed with this nomination to West Point. It is also suggested that you apply for a Congressional nomination. Some MOC's are reluctant because they don't want to use their nominations on candidates who have one already. It's also tricky because soldiers generally are not free for MOC's to interview. If this is the case, there is nothing you can do save make the effort.

Why do you have to wait for November?

 

[evilpoptart]

The particular representative in my district has interviews on November 20th to select his nominations for the year. I've also contacted both of my Senators, but no response from either yet.

I'm assuming having additional nominations will always help with the application, so I'm not sure if I should wait and try to 'beef up' my application, or submit it sooner. I've heard that both are important.