I remember Tall Trees during the last admission cycle. I am pleased to see that despite the challenging schedules, they are leaving the option of a USMA appointment on the table. Reapplying while in college and participating with ROTC cannot be easy. Nor will plebe summer be. My kid just finished it (a modified iso/observation version of plebe summer during the Covid age) and it wasn't easy. It isn't designed to be.
@talltrees, you can be a great junior officer via either path. What others have stated is true in all walks of life. It is cliche but true that you 'get out of it what you put into it'. And while VT may not have all of the guest speakers and opportunities as an Academy might offer, there are ways to seek those experiences outside of an Academy. Maybe those won't be in-person experiences, but the internet is a wonder for those willing to seek them out.
One thing my DS has noted most often since being at USNA is the mentorship available. The breadth and wealth of experience that is available to him are mind-blowing. Mind you, he knew going in he wanted a non-traditional college experience.
If it isn't too taxing for you to complete the application and give yourself the option? Why not?
And if anyone gets testy or irritated might I suggest a dash over to the Bacon thread? It cures my angst every time. Then I dash over to the cocktail thread for stress relief.