Rejected

Saguaroman

Member
Joined
Feb 16, 2018
Messages
24
So, my DS was informed today that he was rejected by the CGA. He applied in October. You would think that it should not have taken the CGA 5 months to figure it out that he is not worthy of an appointment, prep-school or wait list. Yes, I'm disappointed as a parent.
 
So, my DS was informed today that he was rejected by the CGA. He applied in October. You would think that it should not have taken the CGA 5 months to figure it out that he is not worthy of an appointment, prep-school or wait list. Yes, I'm disappointed as a parent.
Just means they were considering him as one of the last pieces in the puzzle. A hard as it was, it was reassuring to me about my chances for the second go around.
 
Frustrating, yes. My son just got in about two weeks ago. He was rejected last year, so he was a second time applicant. He made this happen. He went to prep school, got a 4.0, increased his ACT score significantly, vastly improved his fitness scores, and showed an overall upward trajectory. In my son's case, it took the USCGA nearly 17 months to figure out how good he is. Along the way, my son developed more character through his hard work and commitment, and is a better young man because of his first time rejection. Marinate in the positive, because it is there.
 
I really dislike the word "rejected"...can we change this to "redirected"?
I am sorry that you didn't get the news you were hoping for. Let this be a launching pad to prove that he is worthy. Jeepman hit the nail on the head. It doesn't have to be the end of the road.
 
@Saguaroman
I recommend looking at this as his application was one in play until nearly the last minute, that they found it down difficult to finally let him go. Though it’s wearing on those who wait, I read it as CGA was giving the most competitive applications a long, hard look.

If he really, really wants to serve as a CG Officer, he will figure it out and re-attack. It’s equally fine to change out one dream for another and let it go after one shot.
 
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Add my DD to the list of denials. Half court shot with 0.0 on the clock ... and it deflects off the rim. We got the news a few hours ago. I had been checking Bear's Den every hour or so for last few days and lo and behold it was updated today. It was an exhilarating ride, from our multiple trips to New London this fall and being a sprout for a night, to the long winter's wait. I am probably more sad about it than she is as I let my imagination start to get ahead of me in the last few weeks. I was thinking if she had not been shut out yet that maybe CGAS was a possibility. It does help to know that she must have been in the running to go out this late. Her plan B is a strong one, and we will see where she sets her sights. Totally worth the heartache of this process I must admit, and I hope DD1 takes another shot. If at first one doesn't succeed, get a bigger hammer.

Speaking of which, DD2 submitted her app to AIM just last night. So it starts all. over. again.
 
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Add my DD to the list of denials. Half court shot with 0.0 on the clock ... and it deflects off the rim. We got the news a few hours ago. I had been checking Bear's Den every hour or so for last few days and lo and behold it was updated today. It was an exhilarating ride, from our multiple trips to New London this fall and being a sprout for a night, to the long winter's wait. I am probably more sad about it than she is as I let my imagine start to get ahead of me in the last few weeks. I was thinking if she had not been shut out yet that maybe CGAS was a possibility. It does help to know that she must have been in the running to go out this late. Her plan B is a strong one, and we will see where she sets her sights. Totally worth the heartache of this process I must admit, and I hope DD1 takes another shot. If at first one doesn't succeed, get a bigger hammer.

Speaking of which, DD2 submitted her app to AIM just last night. So it starts all. over. again.

I must say...I am so thankful at this point that DS (youngest of three) was the only one to choose the academy application route. Lawd have mercy I am quite sure I could NOT go through this more than once. Kudos to you for being their cheerleader and supporting their dreams!
 
Add my DD to the list of denials. Half court shot with 0.0 on the clock ... and it deflects off the rim. We got the news a few hours ago. I had been checking Bear's Den every hour or so for last few days and lo and behold it was updated today. It was an exhilarating ride, from our multiple trips to New London this fall and being a sprout for a night, to the long winter's wait. I am probably more sad about it than she is as I let my imagine start to get ahead of me in the last few weeks. I was thinking if she had not been shut out yet that maybe CGAS was a possibility. It does help to know that she must have been in the running to go out this late. Her plan B is a strong one, and we will see where she sets her sights. Totally worth the heartache of this process I must admit, and I hope DD1 takes another shot. If at first one doesn't succeed, get a bigger hammer.

Speaking of which, DD2 submitted her app to AIM just last night. So it starts all. over. again.

We were thinking the same thing that it was taking this long, prep school or perhaps at least a wait list. Like you, I may be more disappointed than my DS, though he doesn't know that he has been rejected yet. It's hard to see your child rejected and considered unworthy. Rejected may not be the best word to describe it but at the end of the day that is what it is. We spoke with one of the AO's for the western region this past weekend and he even said that they may be looking at our DS for a prep school spot since it took so long. Of course, when you hear that the hopes really rise. Was not to be though. My son has had a fun ride this year. Captain of his club soccer team, captain of HS team, MVP of team, HS team made playoffs for first time in many years and won a tourney game, all-state selection, school's male talent show winner....was leading up to the big CGA kahuna finale!!! Then....thud. Not exactly sure what DS will do next. Been accepted to all of the state schools. Perhaps a 2 year church mission. Been in scouts since age 7. Earned his Eagle Scout. DS has truly lived a life of service so far (not BS key club) and wants to continue that as that is why he was so attracted to the CGA and it's mission.
 
Add my DD to the list of denials. Half court shot with 0.0 on the clock ... and it deflects off the rim. We got the news a few hours ago. I had been checking Bear's Den every hour or so for last few days and lo and behold it was updated today. It was an exhilarating ride, from our multiple trips to New London this fall and being a sprout for a night, to the long winter's wait. I am probably more sad about it than she is as I let my imagine start to get ahead of me in the last few weeks. I was thinking if she had not been shut out yet that maybe CGAS was a possibility. It does help to know that she must have been in the running to go out this late. Her plan B is a strong one, and we will see where she sets her sights. Totally worth the heartache of this process I must admit, and I hope DD1 takes another shot. If at first one doesn't succeed, get a bigger hammer.

Speaking of which, DD2 submitted her app to AIM just last night. So it starts all. over. again.

A parent with a great perspective! Your DD is incredibly blessed and will have the spirit to carry forward to a bright future. She obviously shoots for the moon and that is what it takes. Love your "Half court shot" analogy. My DD is in the waiting game and you made us laugh and reminded me to keep fanning those flames for that bright future no matter what the outcome. Who knows...could be a few minutes from now. Just want you to know you have been appreciated!
 
My DS did early decision so he received his crushing blow right after Thanksgiving. Doing early he felt was better because he would not have to deal with this waiting game. They either want him or not. He will reapply after his year in the A&M Corp/NROTC but knows that he can get to his goal of a CG officer through the Maritime Academy... (Still on the USMMA NWL....)

Sorry for all your disheartening news today...
 
I have been a lurker on this site for a few months now, and unfortunately today I also received my "we regret to inform you" letter. As heavy of a blow as it is, I am staying positive and have a game plan on how to improve my application for next year. For those out there that have gone through this process, could anyone lend some advice as to how important sports (varsity or club) play into the overall application? Obviously, the academy seeks a strong candidate physically, and while I have no trouble physically or athletically, I don't have a record of sports other than daily gym trips, simply because I chose to go with other routes throughout high school. Any input is highly appreciated! Best of luck to all that are still waiting for your decisions, and don't let it get you down if it's not the decision you were hoping for. Anyone who has made it this far is definitely a highly qualified individual.
 
I am impressed that you have received the dreaded regrets, and that it has barely slowed your stride. That is a good sign of commitment from my perspective. One of the pearls of wisdom I can take from this is that if an initial denial stops the plan in its tracks, then the CGA likely made the correct decision. It seems reasonable to presume there will likely be larger emotional and mental obstacles at the academy, and as a commissioned officer, than what this day presents. If this day is enough to make an applicant quit, then perhaps that is one part of the system doing its job, and both parties will dodge an uncomfortable union. That thought brings me some peace on an otherwise somber evening.

I have read numerous times here that it is next to impossible to say how much this or that matters, as the admissions staff is looking to create a "class". My advice here is worth what you paid for it, but I would say involvement in a group, preferably showing and obtaining leadership within that group, is more important than what that group is specifically doing, within reason. I would think (having admittedly never been behind the curtain) that it need not necessarily be a sport as long as your PFE shows you are well prepared for the CGA. Given that it will be your second time around I think spending the next 6 months beating that PFE into submission can speak to your athleticism. Sports bring organized group efforts, often under stress. They typically require cooperation and sacrifice. I think demonstrations of teamwork, perseverance, and commitment should definitely be shown in some regard, but that sports unto themselves are not the only way to demonstrate those skills and experiences. In that context, given that the school exists to shape and sharpen leaders, whatever role you can playing in leading as opposed to following will reflect well on your next application, but you may be competing against 2 of my daughters, so forget I said all that. Soda, donuts and naps for you, bub! :)
 
I am impressed that you have received the dreaded regrets, and that it has barely slowed your stride. That is a good sign of commitment from my perspective. One of the pearls of wisdom I can take from this is that if an initial denial stops the plan in its tracks, then the CGA likely made the correct decision. It seems reasonable to presume there will likely be larger emotional and mental obstacles at the academy, and as a commissioned officer, than what this day presents. If this day is enough to make an applicant quit, then perhaps that is one part of the system doing its job, and both parties will dodge an uncomfortable union. That thought brings me some peace on an otherwise somber evening.

I have read numerous times here that it is next to impossible to say how much this or that matters, as the admissions staff is looking to create a "class". My advice here is worth what you paid for it, but I would say involvement in a group, preferably showing and obtaining leadership within that group, is more important than what that group is specifically doing, within reason. I would think (having admittedly never been behind the curtain) that it need not necessarily be a sport as long as your PFE shows you are well prepared for the CGA. Given that it will be your second time around I think spending the next 6 months beating that PFE into submission can speak to your athleticism. Sports bring organized group efforts, often under stress. They typically require cooperation and sacrifice. I think demonstrations of teamwork, perseverance, and commitment should definitely be shown in some regard, but that sports unto themselves are not the only way to demonstrate those skills and experiences. In that context, given that the school exists to shape and sharpen leaders, whatever role you can playing in leading as opposed to following will reflect well on your next application, but you may be competing against 2 of my daughters, so forget I said all that. Soda, donuts and naps for you, bub! :)

Soda, donuts and naps, got it;). In between those sweet treats I plan to push myself even further and take a swing again during the next season. I agree with the statement that the Academy strives to create a team of all backgrounds, so thank you for that note! Best of luck to your two daughters, hope to see them both on R-Day 2019!
 
Add my DD to the list of denials. Half court shot with 0.0 on the clock ... and it deflects off the rim. We got the news a few hours ago. I had been checking Bear's Den every hour or so for last few days and lo and behold it was updated today. It was an exhilarating ride, from our multiple trips to New London this fall and being a sprout for a night, to the long winter's wait. I am probably more sad about it than she is as I let my imagination start to get ahead of me in the last few weeks. I was thinking if she had not been shut out yet that maybe CGAS was a possibility. It does help to know that she must have been in the running to go out this late. Her plan B is a strong one, and we will see where she sets her sights. Totally worth the heartache of this process I must admit, and I hope DD1 takes another shot. If at first one doesn't succeed, get a bigger hammer.

Speaking of which, DD2 submitted her app to AIM just last night. So it starts all. over. again.

I can't even imagine going through that again so soon. I have at least one buffer year before my twins start this process.
 
Twins? Oof. Ours are almost there - 10 months apart. My wife reminded me that if DD1 picks herself up off the floor and comes up screaming, it isn't like she applies "next year". She applies again this year, along with her younger sister. Both barrels at the same time. Oh joy -
 
Twins? Oof. Ours are almost there - 10 months apart. My wife reminded me that if DD1 picks herself up off the floor and comes up screaming, it isn't like she applies "next year". She applies again this year, along with her younger sister. Both barrels at the same time. Oh joy -

Next year DS#1 will be applying for USMA, DS#2 will be applying for SLE, and DD#3 will be enjoying her summer. LOL! She has no desire to join to the military. She actually wants to go to college in Europe. University is free in Germany and they have a lot of degrees in English.
 
My DS was rejected as well. Couch it in as many nice terms as you want, it still feels like a rejection and it's hard. They don't tell us how to deal with this in the baby books. Still waiting to hear from one last SA, but it's discouraging. He will apply again next year, the prospect of waiting another year to hear again is daunting. (Feeling discouraged- yes, I do know about Early Action, but today feels less than uplifting, not gonna lie.)
 
Twins? Oof. Ours are almost there - 10 months apart. My wife reminded me that if DD1 picks herself up off the floor and comes up screaming, it isn't like she applies "next year". She applies again this year, along with her younger sister. Both barrels at the same time. Oh joy -

This will be my third time on the roller coaster. It actually does get easier :)
 
Add my DD to the list of denials. Half court shot with 0.0 on the clock ... and it deflects off the rim. We got the news a few hours ago. I had been checking Bear's Den every hour or so for last few days and lo and behold it was updated today. It was an exhilarating ride, from our multiple trips to New London this fall and being a sprout for a night, to the long winter's wait. I am probably more sad about it than she is as I let my imagine start to get ahead of me in the last few weeks. I was thinking if she had not been shut out yet that maybe CGAS was a possibility. It does help to know that she must have been in the running to go out this late. Her plan B is a strong one, and we will see where she sets her sights. Totally worth the heartache of this process I must admit, and I hope DD1 takes another shot. If at first one doesn't succeed, get a bigger hammer.

Speaking of which, DD2 submitted her app to AIM just last night. So it starts all. over. again.

We were thinking the same thing that it was taking this long, prep school or perhaps at least a wait list. Like you, I may be more disappointed than my DS, though he doesn't know that he has been rejected yet. It's hard to see your child rejected and considered unworthy. Rejected may not be the best word to describe it but at the end of the day that is what it is. We spoke with one of the AO's for the western region this past weekend and he even said that they may be looking at our DS for a prep school spot since it took so long. Of course, when you hear that the hopes really rise. Was not to be though. My son has had a fun ride this year. Captain of his club soccer team, captain of HS team, MVP of team, HS team made playoffs for first time in many years and won a tourney game, all-state selection, school's male talent show winner....was leading up to the big CGA kahuna finale!!! Then....thud. Not exactly sure what DS will do next. Been accepted to all of the state schools. Perhaps a 2 year church mission. Been in scouts since age 7. Earned his Eagle Scout. DS has truly lived a life of service so far (not BS key club) and wants to continue that as that is why he was so attracted to the CGA and it's mission.
DS #1 was notified 2 weeks before the graduation program was printed, May!! All plan B, C, n D, where already in place. CGA is his #1 ... he was not turn down! But 9 months of waiting was tourture!!! He turned in EArly Admission. He is in the class of 2020!! I don’t recommend it to anybody but guest what DS #2 is waiting for AIM notification..again top pick!! I did it once I can do it again but this is different child. Who is going all academy. It is painful but all worth it! I’ll pm you!
 
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