How often do non-STEM students get appointments to USNA? I have interest in STEM subjects and particpate in some STEM extracurriculars, but a lot of my resume is geared towards government, as that is another one of my interests that I have found more opportunities in. Does this hinder my chances at USNA as they prefer engineers and STEM students? Thanks so much.
Non-STEM Appointments?
- Thread starter dashg16
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I wouldn't say it hinders your chances at all. I attended USNA STEM last summer and while it doesn't hurt to have it on your application, it certainly doesn't diminish it. Well that's my take on it at least. Someone more qualified than me may have a better answer.
goforspaatz
USAFA c/o 2020
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Dash, they want well-rounded students. If government's your passion, I say go forward and do great things there. HOWEVER, USNA is a top engineering school for a reason - even if you don't have a STEM major, expect to take rigorous math and science classes there. That said, it would be in your best interest to have top grades in STEM classes and a solid foundation in science and engineering. There are definitely a lot of leadership roles you could find in government which would really help your application.
^^ I agree.
Assuming you are still in h.s., USNA has a list of expected subjects you should be taking, including 4 yrs of math, 4 yrs of English, etc. regardless of what you think you might choose as a major. Most h.s. tend to focus on 'college prep' and not a single specific discipline.
http://www.usna.edu/Admissions/Steps-for-Admission/General-Advice-for-Grades-9-12.php
How well you do on ACT/SAT is also a factor.
Assuming you are still in h.s., USNA has a list of expected subjects you should be taking, including 4 yrs of math, 4 yrs of English, etc. regardless of what you think you might choose as a major. Most h.s. tend to focus on 'college prep' and not a single specific discipline.
http://www.usna.edu/Admissions/Steps-for-Admission/General-Advice-for-Grades-9-12.php
How well you do on ACT/SAT is also a factor.
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Be aware that even if you are taking a Humanities & Social Sciences major, you are required to complete the core courses:
http://www.usna.edu/Academics/Majors-and-Courses/Course-Requirements-Plebe.php
They offer Extra Instructions for Mids who need help. However, when you go to school in Northern VA (assuming your school has a solid profile), if you don't have high scores in STEM and AP already, that could potentially set you back. How well you do in other areas could become more critical in this case. Is it too late to speak with your counselor to replace some classes next year with more STEM ones?
http://www.usna.edu/Academics/Majors-and-Courses/Course-Requirements-Plebe.php
They offer Extra Instructions for Mids who need help. However, when you go to school in Northern VA (assuming your school has a solid profile), if you don't have high scores in STEM and AP already, that could potentially set you back. How well you do in other areas could become more critical in this case. Is it too late to speak with your counselor to replace some classes next year with more STEM ones?
@goforspaatz and @time2,
I definitely have some STEM interest, and have explored those through clubs and advanced classes, although the grades aren't as high as I'd like. My SAT scores are also pretty high to slightly offset the lower grades. Thanks for the info. It gives me some hope!
@ktnatalk,
I am already taking 3 STEM classes next year, and I am hoping to score very well to make up for the B's I got in STEM classes previous years. I will try to talk to him to get more, but how much weight do 1st semester senior grades have vs. the rest of high school? Thanks!
I definitely have some STEM interest, and have explored those through clubs and advanced classes, although the grades aren't as high as I'd like. My SAT scores are also pretty high to slightly offset the lower grades. Thanks for the info. It gives me some hope!
@ktnatalk,
I am already taking 3 STEM classes next year, and I am hoping to score very well to make up for the B's I got in STEM classes previous years. I will try to talk to him to get more, but how much weight do 1st semester senior grades have vs. the rest of high school? Thanks!
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It depends, but definitely strive to do your best. There are posts on the forum stating admissions ask for senior transcripts. It is not requested from everyone - my guess is it depends on how strong the grades from junior year are, among other reasons.
How did your B's affect your GPA and class rank?
How did your B's affect your GPA and class rank?