Chance me? Could I be "bad" at math?

[james415]

I'm a current high school junior in two AP's and one honors class (English). I've never shared a good relationship with math. Whether it be attributed to natural mathematic aptitude or sheer laziness, I was in algebra 1 freshman year, geometry sophomore, and algebra 2 junior year. I got really screwed with a bad algebra 2 teacher this year and with finals coming up, I don't think I could break a B-.
UW GPA: 3.45
Weighted: 3.86
Took PSAT without practice once this year:
Math: 580
Reading/Writing: 680
I think I could get this up to 1400 with practice

I realize the Academies stress mathematic ability, so I was wondering if I still have a chance. Should I take pre-calc senior year to prepare for the core curriculum?

I'm an underrepresented minority, accomplished year-round distance runner since freshman year and captain (tons of awards, possible walk-on times), vice-president of a politics-related outreach service for underprivileged kids, newspaper editor, 200+ service hours, and Young Republican Club leader, in addition to other items. I will apply for Boys' State. My personal statement will emphasize my experience as a ethnic and political minority in San Francisco (Yeah, being a conservative in the liberal mecca is quite the fun).

Judging off of my current fitness level, I'll max out on every event of the CFA but the basketball throw (I've never tried it).

Chance me? Thanks everyone.

 

[usafa2022]

What's your SAT or ACT, if you've taken them yet? Precalc is tough if you're not a math person but it would probably be a good choice next year. It'll push you for sure.

My personal statement will emphasize my experience as a ethnic and political minority in San Francisco (Yeah, being a conservative in the liberal mecca is quite the fun).

I can only imagine...it's hard enough where I live, in a blue pocket of a red state.

 

[tug_boat]

Yeah that math score is low.

When you look at the Class Profiles under umsa.edu the bulk of the math scores are between 600-699. Even if you're superman, academics gets you through WP. Even the football players have to get through academics. Academics, academics, academics

Push Hard, Press Forward

 

[wildblueyonder]

I don't generally feel qualified to "chance" people, but I'll venture a few comments that might be of assistance. It looks like you have some decent credentials in most areas, but your math score and UWGPA will definitely hurt you...just being completely honest. Whether or not you'll get a direct appointment, I have no way of knowing, but I am guessing you may have a pretty reasonable shot at the USMA prep school (especially if you have expressed interest in running for USMA as an IC athlete).

If you end up getting a USMAPS slot, I would strongly encourage you to seriously consider accepting it. Some of my best friends at USAFA are preppies, and I really admire them for their tenacity in persevering an extra year. Based on what I've seen from them, I think the USAFA prep school definitely gives incoming cadets a jump start on functioning in the Academy's stressful environment, which can really help out during 4* year. I am quite confident the same holds true for USMA.

Again, I have no idea what will or will not happen in the coming months. I am not saying in any way that you won't get a direct appointment. However, I think it would be a serious mistake not to strongly consider the prep school if you receive the offer.

Good luck!

 

[texas05]

Although the Academies stress math, USMA is one of the best public liberal arts colleges in america. (Forgot source, Forbes maybe?) I would definitely encourage you work to improve your PSAT because that is already pretty good. Also remember that your admissions decision is not solely based on Academics. The overall goal of a service academy is to breed leaders of character. You have some good qualities that make you seem competitive already. I think if you work to improve your grades you will have a very solid shot at receiving an offer. You still have some time so definitely hit those books.

Best of luck!
-Plebe at USMA

 

[james415]

What's your SAT or ACT, if you've taken them yet? Precalc is tough if you're not a math person but it would probably be a good choice next year. It'll push you for sure.



I can only imagine...it's hard enough where I live, in a blue pocket of a red state.

I'm planning on taking the SAT in late January... We'll see how that and Precalc goes. In regard to your political climate, all I can say is stay strong! We can do this! Lol. Thanks for the feedback!

 

[james415]

Yeah that math score is low.

When you look at the Class Profiles under umsa.edu the bulk of the math scores are between 600-699. Even if you're superman, academics gets you through WP. Even the football players have to get through academics. Academics, academics, academics

Push Hard, Press Forward

Wow! The math scores did surprise me, but even I know that's still not enough to assure anything. You're definitely right on academics. "Push Hard, Press Forward..." I like that! Thanks for the feedback!

 

[james415]

I don't generally feel qualified to "chance" people, but I'll venture a few comments that might be of assistance. It looks like you have some decent credentials in most areas, but your math score and UWGPA will definitely hurt you...just being completely honest. Whether or not you'll get a direct appointment, I have no way of knowing, but I am guessing you may have a pretty reasonable shot at the USMA prep school (especially if you have expressed interest in running for USMA as an IC athlete).

If you end up getting a USMAPS slot, I would strongly encourage you to seriously consider accepting it. Some of my best friends at USAFA are preppies, and I really admire them for their tenacity in persevering an extra year. Based on what I've seen from them, I think the USAFA prep school definitely gives incoming cadets a jump start on functioning in the Academy's stressful environment, which can really help out during 4* year. I am quite confident the same holds true for USMA.

Again, I have no idea what will or will not happen in the coming months. I am not saying in any way that you won't get a direct appointment. However, I think it would be a serious mistake not to strongly consider the prep school if you receive the offer.

Good luck!

The honest response is greatly appreciated. I love your point about the prep school, and I'll look into that more seriously. Your especially mentioning the extra year as a mark of perseverance is really sticking with me. Thanks for the feedback!

 

[james415]

Although the Academies stress math, USMA is one of the best public liberal arts colleges in america. (Forgot source, Forbes maybe?) I would definitely encourage you work to improve your PSAT because that is already pretty good. Also remember that your admissions decision is not solely based on Academics. The overall goal of a service academy is to breed leaders of character. You have some good qualities that make you seem competitive already. I think if you work to improve your grades you will have a very solid shot at receiving an offer. You still have some time so definitely hit those books.

Best of luck!
-Plebe at USMA

You're right about the liberal arts education—that's a little assuring. But I'll definitely dedicate a chunk of my winter break in preparation for the SAT come late January. I also appreciate the warm words. And a big congratulations yourself on making it in and I hope you're loving every minute of the Academy! Thanks for your feedback!