Naps Decision

CBLsu

CBLsu

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Mar 19, 2015
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My son recieved acceptance into Naps. He also recieved the National ROTC Scholarship and was accepted into the university that he wanted. I know that finances should not play into this decision, and have advised him such, but with the ROTC my son would receive my Chapter 35 benefits for 100% disabled Vets, the additional scholarship the university offered, his Bright Futures scholarship and any other scholarship that he receives and he is being considered for a few other big ones. He will basically he will be pocketing at least $1500 a month after all expenses. Coming from a single family home with a limited budget this has unfortunately been a factor he feels he cannot ignore completely. In addition, the University that he chose has a great program (recognized nationally) in his desired Major area. He has researched quite a bit for both options. He also knows that the offer to Naps is such an honor though, and really is undecided on his decision. My dad was a WWII graduate of Naps (rest his soul.. I really wish he was here to help). I believe that it was the extra year for Naps that has him on the fence. As a single mother, I am uncertain how to advise him. He knows that he would lose his ROTC if he chooses Naps (Is it hard to "reapply" and be accepted to the ROTC Scholarship after HS graduation?) I would love to be able to better offer him guidance on this issue. I would appreciate any input anyone may offer here. Thank You.
 
My DD is going to NAPS this summer. I don't see the "extra" year as a big deal. In 5 years, she will be in the Navy. Or....in 5 years, she will be in the Navy.
You need to make sure those scholarships can be "pocketed" as extra income. Many scholarships can only be used for tuition, room and board, or related educational expenses.
Both sound like fantastic options.
Good luck!
 
There is only one question your DS needs to answer -- does he want to attend USNA? If he does and successfully completes NAPS, he is guaranteed a slot at USNA. That is a huge deal. While at NAPS, he will be paid. While at USNA, he will be paid. Not a lot, but something. And both are "free" (financially).

ROTC is also a great way to earn a commission. If he wants a mostly "normal" college life, ROTC is the way to go. Typically, ROTC is more expensive than USNA/NAPS but your DS may have other programs that will ease the financial burden.

A distant relative did Foundation this year (analogous to NAPS). Has NEVER regretted the extra year; felt it helped him/her grow as a person and also improve even more on academics.
 
At the end of the day, an O-1 is an O-1 is an O-1. Your commissioning source does not matter. However, I agree with the above post regarding your DS's desire to want to attend USNA. I can say hands down that the USNA experience is unique and definitely memorable (2013 grad here) and definitely taught me time and stress management upon my arrival here in Pensacola. I'm not saying you can learn those management techniques elsewhere, I'm just offering something that I took away from USNA. Again, this is on your DS's shoulders. Going there for mom and dad and not for him will make him miserable. HE has to want it. Don't put any pressure on him, maybe have him talk to some of his friends that he may have there, or in other ROTC units, or even I'd be willing to talk to him
 
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Thank you all for your information. He is due to meet with both his Blue and Gold Officer and the Rep from the ROTC. He knows he has to make a decision. No matter what he has two wonderful choices. I feel very blessed and know he will do fine. Now I get to focus on my 14 yo dear daughter and will try to determine her passions and goals. ~ Fair Winds and Following Sea's.

CTT2 (Air Crew) Retired
 
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