curious...portal/BFE

[Row2020]

This first timer gets the feeling that the "portal" is a rather new phenomenon. As a member of the class of 94AD, I can't recall waiting by the mailbox. However, I'm glad that I didn't suffer from the curse of the portal obsession. Even way back then the BFE did exist. I got a call from Mom while at a team sleepover when the BFE arrived. DS has settled into a once a day routine where he checks his "status"at USNA, USMMA, and DoDMERB. I am sure that every parent here has discussed with their applicant "how things used to be." Was it better that way? Should SA/Colleges/Universities go back to just sending the BFE? IMHO it seems like a waste of time for our applicants particularly if in certain cases the school sends an email to "check the portal." Just wondering if I am alone on this. - Love, the old lady. (yes, it was uphill both ways, in the snow, barefoot)

 

[NavyHoops]

Row, we have had some of those discussions over the years. I also applied before, (gasp), the portal existed because the Internet was still pretty rare! It wasn't that long ago in reality. We filled out the application, waited for the next letter to arrive and followed the instructions. When we got a letter stating we had completed our application and would know by XX date we just waited and stalked the mailbox like every high school senior in America waiting for the various BFEs to arrive. My MOC called to let me know I was appointed just like so like many kids hear today. I am actually thankful we didn't have the portal to stalk. I think there is some fun in the mystery of the Plebe Summer chaos, besides you just can't really understand it until you get there and live it! The pros are that candidates today are so much more informed with social media, forums like this, and all the other websites that help educate candidates on SAs and ROTC. I think the attrition rates show in some way this has helped. Pros and cons to it. For candidates reading this waiting for BFEs, close the laptop or put down the tablet, go have fun with you friends and family.

 

[Row2020]

The pros are that candidates today are so much more informed with social media, forums like this, and all the other websites that help educate candidates on SAs and ROTC. I think the attrition rates show in some way this has helped. Pros and cons to it. For candidates reading this waiting for BFEs, close the laptop or put down the tablet, go have fun with you friends and family.[/QUOTE]

RE: SAF I am glad that I found this forum when I did, no sooner and no later. The SAF is a great resource when used as such. However, misinformation found on social media is what led me here. I LOVE that so many in the know are quick to discredit false or misleading info with authority, such as yourself.

RE: Portal - He has talked himself into once a day, at home. Dude, if you have checked your email, why torture yourself? On top of that, we know that our MOC has called other candidates for USNA, at least. USMMA might be different? I keep quiet (most days) but I agree with you. Shut it down and let it happen.

 

[k$Mom]

I agree and think the BFE is more rewarding. You also have something concrete/ tangible in that case.

Technology to me is a little too touch and go. It can be the best resource or your worst enemy when systems go down, info lost, viruses etc.