DS is still on hold (2 months) after being cleared from a medical waiver and submitting his transcript a second time when Admissions indicated they had not received it.
I am an actively sailing alumni from '97 and am having a heck of a time getting information to assist / support his and another candidate from SC. Supposedly there are four slots, and 4 qualified applicants from SC, but Admissions has only offered LOAs to two applicants. Both students are high school sailors and are interested in sailing for the Varsity Dinghy Team. They have had contact with the coach, but it is unclear if they are being recruited.
I have been informed that target recruitment numbers have been lowered from 280ish to 250ish, which is very concerning as an alumni and an actively sailing Captain in the Merchant Marines. I have witnessed first hand the shortage of qualified mariners in the industry and am increasingly concerned about the ability of the United States to man its reserve fleet in a a time of war or international crisis. Additionally, the new Admiral for the school has indicated that recruiting is down due to poor PR for the school.
I am not here to rant for my son's application. I am here to push all of you who are on hold to do everything you can to tip the scales in your favor. Write a followup to the Admissions Office. Contact your representatives and get them to advocate for you as a nominee. If you are in a sport program, contact the coach or athletic director at KP and advocate for yourself. If you want to go to the Merchant Marine Academy no is the time for you to fight for what you want the most.
When I applied to King's Point in 1993 I did so for what, to me, were all the right reasons. I was an average student and I got in a bit of hot water that the school was made aware of my senior year. I was accepted two weeks before Indoctrination began. I do not wish that challenge on anyone, especially those that are fully qualified and ready to attend a very challenging school that is filled with opportunity and reward.
Best of luck to all and if anyone reading has advice to offer, we are all listening.