Tips for Admissons

amsoccerman05

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Jul 5, 2019
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17
I am currently going into my freshman year in high school and want to stay ahead of the admission process and take classes and do extracurriculasr that would help me get into the academy. Does anyone have and tips? Thanks.
 
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Pursue EC's only that really interest you.

Otherwise interviewers will see through the bogus activities, and you will also end up wasting time doing things you don't like.

Things to do:
  1. Excel in academic subjects that are challenging.
  2. Pursue a team sport that you have passion for. (soccer perhaps? My DS was a goalkeeper and captain).
  3. Participate in one or two EC's that truly interest you.
  4. Begin preparing for the SAT or ACT.
  5. Show leadership and be an outstanding citizen.
 
AROTC-dad is spot on.
Also, look through academyadmissions.com and note the classes they require/desire, then try to make sure you take those classes (if your school has them)
 
Pursue EC's only that really interest you.

Otherwise interviewers will see through the bogus activities, and you will also end up wasting time doing things you don't like.

Things to do:
  1. Excel in academic subjects that are challenging.
  2. Pursue a team sport that you have passion for. (soccer perhaps? My DS was a goalkeeper and captain).
  3. Participate in one or two EC's that truly interest you.
  4. Begin preparing for the SAT or ACT.
  5. Show leadership and be an outstanding citizen.
Thanks! I’m doing soccer and I’m at a STEM school which pushes stem courses.
 
If I can add:

Find things you really passionate about and let that be a big part of who you are. Music and Crossfit were the things my DS was really in to- showing that you are as much of a three dimensional person as you can be is a big deal.

Also, be the kind of person people want to be around: be able to hold up your end of a conversation (but not necessarily become the WHOLE conversation.) Be fun and interesting. As far as I can tell, the academies are looking for the kind of people who make the greatest leaders: look at some of the most successful politicians and business leaders- people GRAVITATE towards them. Be able to make a joke...but be able to take a joke as well. Make sure you have a great handshake- not too firm, not like a dead fish. All these little things add up to BIG impressions when you have interviews and meet with your ALO. I know this always comes off as a little hippy-dippy; and, don't get me wrong, academics and test scores and leadership are all jobs ONE, but being well-rounded is a really big deal.

Best of luck! Keep us posted, use the search feature here, and never hesitate to reach out on the forum or in messages if you have specific questions! You got this, we believe in you!
 
I might add if you are an athlete and plan on being recruited as D1 athlete, do yourself a favor and review as much information on this forum in regards to terms such as "recruited athlete" and "blue chip".
 
If I can add:

Find things you really passionate about and let that be a big part of who you are. Music and Crossfit were the things my DS was really in to- showing that you are as much of a three dimensional person as you can be is a big deal.

Also, be the kind of person people want to be around: be able to hold up your end of a conversation (but not necessarily become the WHOLE conversation.) Be fun and interesting. As far as I can tell, the academies are looking for the kind of people who make the greatest leaders: look at some of the most successful politicians and business leaders- people GRAVITATE towards them. Be able to make a joke...but be able to take a joke as well. Make sure you have a great handshake- not too firm, not like a dead fish. All these little things add up to BIG impressions when you have interviews and meet with your ALO. I know this always comes off as a little hippy-dippy; and, don't get me wrong, academics and test scores and leadership are all jobs ONE, but being well-rounded is a really big deal.

Best of luck! Keep us posted, use the search feature here, and never hesitate to reach out on the forum or in messages if you have specific questions! You got this, we believe in you!
Thank you for the advice! I am trying to do robotics and soccer along with basketball.
 
I really like your initiative. Our DS started SA plan very early as well. If possible sit down with HS guidance counselor, let them know your interest and see if they can help you plot a course of action re academics that meets SA course requirements. Take the PSAT as many times as you can and then SAT and ACT until your scores are up there. Keep a fluid and ongoing resume of awards, clubs, positions held, athletics, makes it easy to complete apps. Our son competes in FBLA, and they require a resume and he has competed in resume and interview, all good practice. Be brave! Try to compete in essay, poetry, speech, talent contests, put yourself out there and see what you are good at that might surprise you. Becoming a good public speaker and being comfortable meeting new people and being able to carry an intelligent conversation are all great attributes. Boys State is an awesome experience, our son is in DC at Boys Nation now and is thoroughly enjoying that as well. Service to others, find an organization that matters to you and offer your time. Keep a ledger of your service hours. I am no expert for sure, just a mom of a 2024 Candidate, these are just things that have helped him in the process.
 
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