Hi there, checking in again after a few years. These forums were a blessing to my 2021 cadet and now I'm back again with a DD hoping to be included in the class 2025. We have some experience with the process now, so hopefully I'll be able to contribute more.
Hello again, This time with a 2025 hopeful.
- Thread starter scrose
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DeepWaters
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Thank you for posting. What’s the one thing you now know about the process that you wish you had known before?
Lots. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Thankfully this child decided before September of her senior year that she wanted to apply, so things aren’t as rushed.
Most importantly though, don’t get discouraged if you are lacking in some area. Chances are you have many qualities that round out your application.My son was not a varsity athlete. His class rank was barely in the top 20%. He had not even had physics in high school. He had good standardized scores and interviewed well though. He was honest and sincere in his interviews, and didn’t get flustered when they asked him why he had so many shortcomings. His application was definitely a reach, but if you don’t go for it the answer is always no. He is so happy with his path, and can’t imagine not taking it.
I have a ‘22 and a ‘25 hopeful! Although we know and understand the process better this time, it isn’t any easier!! Until about a year ago I didn’t expect to be repeating this process with #2 but here we are!! Definitely a marathon! Good luck to everyone!
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Glad you are back as an experienced roller coaster rider.
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Welcome to the BOGO club!! As a proud member myself, it is way less stressful the 2nd (or 3rd) time around. But, just like children, each cycle is completely different than the other. That is my big takeaway as a multi-timer.
Good luck!! Will be watching!!
Good luck!! Will be watching!!
Roadking
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It was a breeze with my 2017 DS, LOA in October and Appointment in early December. DS #2 will be applying for the 3rd time for Class of 2025 and he has a better ACT score than his brother! You just never know I guess. Our family has experienced the joy and pride of a smooth process and the torture and despair of rejection. Just do your best and keep trying! Don’t forget to have a great backup plan!
Any advice, from a parental point of view, for high school? I'm headed into my Freshman year and want to go to USMA. Also, how did your daughter and/or son approach you about attending? I'm not sure how open my parents are to the idea of me going to USMA, and don't really know how to approach them with it.
My son had never shown any interest, but after USMA kept popping up in college searches as a reach school based on his SAT scores, he decided to throw a hail Mary. He had no varsity sports, but with some work he was able to pass the CFT. He is an Eagle Scout, and was an XO in his NJROTC unit. He had a lot of music and theatre experience, so he was really comfortable being in front of people for interviews ect. He also did a college class on WWII that was a collaboration of the National WWII museum and a college in Louisiana the summer before, because he's a history buff. The class took place in Normandy France. This ended up working out for him since it gave him something interesting to talk about in his interviews.
My daughter visited several times, and was super impressed with the interaction between the instructors and cadets, as well as the camaraderie within the Corps. She is better positioned with her application since she has a varsity letter, is drum major of a large marching band, and is the commanding officer of her NJROTC unit. You never know though. There only has to be one kid they like more.
As for my advice, I would really focus on a meaningful way to impact your community, and be prepared to present it in interviews and in writing on your application. My daughter is a great trumpet player, and she plays Taps for veterans funerals through Bugles Across America. She loves doing it, and it allows her to help others using her unique talents. Since you're going into your freshman year, you have time to reflect on what you're good at and how to best use your gifts to help others, rather than just trying to maximize community service hours. Of course, doing your best academically is critical, as is taking the SAT and ACT early and often.
Don't automatically assume that your parents wouldn't be open to one of the service academies. They have been around for a long time, and their prestige is well known. Best of luck to you!
what has your ds 2 been doing as a backup while reapplying?
NJDadofDSUSMA2024Hopeful
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It was quite a surprise when my DS brought it up (he was fortunate to get an LOA to USMA but changed his mind and decided to go the AROTC route at a top civilian school). I think the important thing is to make sure you can convey that you understand as much as you can about the process, the pros and cons of attending a SA and what it will entail while you're there and when you graduate. If you can, get them to a field force presentation. The one we went to was informative and interesting. And I think the 4 most important things for concerned parents are:
1) not everyone in the Army is in Infantry, Special Forces etc. There are a lot of other branches if combat risk is the main concern (then you can surprise them later by choosing Infantry--just kidding).
2) Serving is important to our nation. It shouldn't be left only to someone else's kid. This was something my DS felt strongly about.
3) an SA (or ROTC) is a great financial deal, but also a fantastic way to get leadership training and to be exposed to opportunities that civilian kids do not get during college or the first couple of years after.
4) while a commitment of 5 years (4 for ROTC) seems like a long time, you'll still have your whole life ahead of you to stay in the service, go to graduate school (with the money you saved on undergrad) or get a good civilian job with the SA and 5 years of experience on your resume.
Good luck!
Roadking
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He finished his first year of college and was awarded a 3 year NROTC scholarship this past July.
2025 hopeful received LOA Monday! 2022 didn’t get one, so happy to have a little stress removed from the process this time! Good luck to everyone!
Ds received call from our Representative today (received nomination call last week) congratulating him on his Appointment to West Point! He was told that he will receive his BFE in a few days!!! He is in! November appointment!!! We were so nervous waiting until January with our 22!
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Congratulations! As the 'Mother of Multiples' just expect that it will be completely different for your second cadet. However, some parts will be easy for you...you know how the kid can arrange the bus to get to the airport for Thanksgiving, the packing list, etc. Congrats to your family!