“Adversity” on application

[InItToWinIt]

DS’s high school was terrorized by an active shooter (a fellow student), injuring 7 and killing 4, in the middle of his junior year. The “extreme adversity” section of the application only allows for 256 characters (not word count, CHARACTERS). That doesn’t even allow him to scratch the surface of the adversity faced throughout the school year (being shut down for 2 months, frequent closings of the school, etc.). I assume there will be time in interviews to speak about how he led his classmates and overcame the adversity he faced the remainder of the school year? He finished strong and wants to be sure to be able to emphasize the work he put in, but 256 characters is so limited. Are interviews more structured, or should he expect to have some freedom for this discussion?

 

[ParachutePanda]

Before I get into info, I just want to say that I admire your son's want and desire to serve, kudos to him.

Anyways, when I applied (Class of 26!) there was an essay prompt that was given that asked about a personal experience that you feel has contributed to your own character building. He could possibly touch on this if he wanted to, if not the extreme adversity section is good.

For interviews, some applications may ask for times when it was hard or when leadership was needed, he could nicely put a paragraph about this if he wants to. Sometimes you'll get questions about a unique experience, etc.

Hopefully this helps.

 

[InItToWinIt]

Before I get into info, I just want to say that I admire your son's want and desire to serve, kudos to him.

Anyways, when I applied (Class of 26!) there was an essay prompt that was given that asked about a personal experience that you feel has contributed to your own character building. He could possibly touch on this if he wanted to, if not the extreme adversity section is good.

For interviews, some applications may ask for times when it was hard or when leadership was needed, he could nicely put a paragraph about this if he wants to. Sometimes you'll get questions about a unique experience, etc.

Hopefully this helps.

That definitely helps, thank you!

 

[Academician]

I agree with both points. Your son will want to mention this incident to his BGO. In fact, he should reach out to him/her to introduce himself now as he is progressing through the USNA application. Often, the BGO will speak or correspond with a candidate multiple times prior to the official interview. Your son's initiative and ability to convey information will be an important part of this evaluation. What's more, a typical BGO will live in your area and may very well be aware of the incident so that should help your son discuss the details with the officer. Best of luck to him!