College Applicant with a Complex Situation (i.e. Scoliosis, glasses, bad grades)

S

Santie50322

New Member
Joined
Mar 21, 2022
Messages
6
Hello service academy forums, my situation is complex. I am an 18 year old, female senior, in high school and I discovered the service academies in March of my junior year (2022). I had no idea what they were and had never heard of them. After doing some intense research into them, I knew this is where I belonged. But, after seeing their standards, I knew I was no match. It would be absolutely comical for me to apply. My freshman year I had a 3.0 GPA, with no extracurriculars. I was going to run track, but the season never finished or even began because of Covid. My sophomore year I had a 2.9 because I failed geometry, and still no extracurriculars. My junior year it went down even more to a 2.2; I had failed seven classes, and still the extracurriculars were missing. This was also the time that I found out about the academies. Now during my senior year, I have a 2.6 GPA. If I didn’t fail all of those classes, with just my first semester senior grades, I would have an unweighted GPA of 3.7. But it doesn’t matter. What it could’ve been because it is unattainable at this point. I coasted through high school with no end goal. I didn’t do any sports, clubs, or anything outside of school. Part of the reason was Covid. I revolted into becoming a homebody, which I knew I wasn’t, but since I couldn’t go out, I didn’t. But after stumbling upon a YouTube video, talking about life at the Naval Academy, some thing drew me in. I researched the school, and what it would be like to be an officer in the navy. When I first heard about the military, instantly I was turned away. Firstly, I thought it was only the army and you had to go to war and do all of that crazy stuff. I had no idea there were other jobs in different branches of the military. I also had no idea that there were officers I thought you had to enlist and work your way up and that’s how you became someone in charge of other enlisted personnel. Once I did the research, my mind was blown. I didn’t know there was this other side of the military. What is also kind of strange is that around this time when I was researching about the academies and being an officer in the military, I found out that I had two uncles that had served in the Navy, and that my grandfather was a desert storm veteran. Once I became a senior and realized that I actually do want a meaningful career, I knew that being an officer lined up great. But my initial roadblock was my parents. They are not very pro military and don’t see the benefit or good side of being in the military, which I totally understand. But I don’t think they know that there are two sides : enlisted and officer and that I would be on the officer side. After trying to imply to them that I was thinking about the Navy as a career option, they were not receptive. My father was saying that it wasn’t wise to be apart of that and my mother said that she knows I wouldn’t like it. [Just a side note: I’m still a little scared of my parents disapproval and them not supporting me.] But what I had failed to tell them was that this path would answer all of my qualms that I had about college in the first place: money, student loans, money, student loans, and debt, debt, and more debt. I’ve seen first hand how debt controls peoples lives and I knew for a fact that I didn’t want that and I was going to do everything I could to not let that be me. I sparsely told them about the academies, but after seeing their reactions to me having a career in the military period, I chickened out. I told myself maybe they’re right and it’s not like I would get in anyway if I did apply for class of 2027 at USNA. So I put that dream aside and said that I was going to go to community college (to get an outstanding GPA) and then go to university to become a lawyer. (Also, when I told my parents about that plan they were all on board, but rejected the military path. Hm.) But recently, USNA is taking over my thoughts again. I know that I would be absolutely devastated if I never even applied. Getting rejected is one thing, but not applying would be hell. I don’t want to be 24 year old saying that I wished I had applied when now I absolutely cannot apply because of aging out. So, after giving some background, I need some assistance and some thoughts and critiques about my new plan because this is my goal and I will apply.

Firstly, school. I obviously would be a transfer student. I would have to do everything I needed/ wanted to do in high school over 4 years, in 1 or 2 years. After looking on USNA’s page about college applicants, it says that going to a 4-year is better than a 2-year. I will strive for going to a 4-year, but hopefully, financially, I will be able to attend one. The goal in this section is to get a competitive GPA and SAT score . I almost surprised myself with how much my work ethic has changed compared to last year (junior). I know that I will be able to achieve this. Fortunately, with the SAT you can take it over and over and over, unlike the GPA. I’ve been doing practice questions and tests on Khan Academy and took an SAT prep class at my school. I feel confident in achieving a competitive score and GPA.

Secondly, medical. I have scoliosis and wear glasses. My scoliosis was at 26° and I had to wear a back brace from when I was 13-16 years old. You can see the curve in my back, but it’s not drastic. I have never ever ever had any pain whatsoever in my back, shoulders, legs, or hips. When I got diagnosed, I was running track competitively and was working out and lifting weights during this time and never felt a thing. I was quite astonished when they told me I had it because I thought that it was supposed to hurt. I’m 18 now and haven’t had an X-ray in 4 years. At the final doctors appointment so they could tell me I didn’t need to wear the brace anymore, they looked at the latest X-ray and said that it was now at 24°. Still don’t feel anything, but am hoping that that doesn’t interfere with anything. I researched it a while ago and I think I’m within the curvature regulations, but I could be wrong. I think my curve is too large to be pilot, but I’m not entirely sure. Now my vision. I’ve worn glasses since I was 7 as blindness runs in my maternal side. I honestly don’t know my prescription, but I do know that faces are blurry from across a gym (sitting in the bleachers), if that puts things in perspective. Hoping again that that won’t interfere.

Thirdly, extracurriculars. I love volunteering and helping out. Currently, I am a track manager for my school’s boys track team 26-35 hours a week. Track meets are very long. The managers do a LOT, and give a LOT of time, but it is honestly really fun (minus sitting in the cold). I also volunteered to participate in my school’s international festival. In the summer of Freshman year I was a group leader for my old school's church's VBS. I’m hoping to be apart of more organizations and volunteering more during college. It probably won’t be enough time to get leadership in organizations, but i will definitely try.

Fourthly, sports. As I’ve mentioned before, I’ve run track. Although I didn’t run in high school, I desperately want to run again in college. I know I’ll need to work twice as hard to even tryout. But I’m willing to put in the work. Say I tried out for a D1/D2 (most likely D2) school and made it and ran for a year. Would I be able to still transfer to USNA and run track? Would it be like I was being recruited or would running track not matter at all in admissions on the athletic side? Not that it would have an impact on me choosing to run. Also, over the summer I am unsure if I should work to save up some money, or use the time to train to tryout for track.

Fifthly, alternative options. I think about the NROTC route, because in the end, I want a career in the navy. But, the NROTC route to get there just doesn’t line up with me. I never wanted the typical college experience. I always wanted have an experience unique to me and different from my peers. Heck, I even thought about studying abroad and things of that nature. So I view the NROTC path a path for people who want that college experience, but for me: I don’t. I like the military 24/7 structure the academy does, and the having every single student there going through a similar experience. While I am looking to join a unit to experience the Navy some, I don’t think it would be a good path for me personally to get to where I’m going. Like riding a charter bus, when you could ride in a car. Both are going the same place, but one is a better ride for you personally.

I know some of my paragraphs don’t have direct questions. I will greatly appreciate comment and critiques and indirect answers to my indirect questions. I’m not really sure who to talk to because I know absolutely no one actively in the military or who went the officer route. Any words that anyone has to say about my situation will be digested. Any advice on how to make the academy want me, how to make myself a competitive applicant, and if I'm just crazy on thinking I could do it all in a year or two would be a great place to start! I'm all ears! Thank you so so so so much for taking the time out of your day for reading this and/or giving any comments, critiques, and advice. Have a blessed day!

(My apologies for the grammar mistakes, I really just needed to get this out of my head and on paper.) ~Santorella V. aka Santie
 
You seem to be growing up, awakening to your own potential and all that is available in the world, and are the beginning of a period of discernment around your future direction. That is absolutely wonderful and even right on time (or early even) for most teenagers. I will tell you I’m choosing to ignore (and it’s not easy) some of the things you’ve shared about your feelings about the military, war, and being an officer vs enlisted. Because I know you’re a kid in high school and have just woken up to what you might be or become.

My advice is go to community college and take STEM classes and see how you do and how excited you are about Chem, Physics, and Calc, or if it’s an option attend a large university with a million options and all 4 branches of ROTC represented. Perhaps being a college programmer might fit you (where you request to join in - understatement - but join in the activities and education of the battalion).

But in addition to academics, it seems like you have A LOT of learning to do about what it takes — and means — to be an officer in any branch of the military before even trying to go that route. Spend a lot of time reading posts/threads here, devour the books and webinars available for free for anyone on the topic, and while doing so also explore other ways you can be, other careers that excite you, as a functioning, productive adult.
 
Jabor3 said:
But in addition to academics, it seems like you have A LOT of learning to do about what it takes — and means — to be an officer in any branch of the military before even trying to go that route.
Click to expand...
This! You seem to have had an awakening. Your interest seems genuine. You still have a lot to learn about what this entails. So go to the USNA website and review every page, link, tab and pull-down.

Santie50322 said:
Firstly, I thought it was only the army and you had to go to war and do all of that crazy stuff. I had no idea there were other jobs in different branches of the military.
Click to expand...
No matter what your job is in the Navy or Marine Corps, your central and ultimate role is to lead sailors or Marines in the act of making war. USNA produces officers for unrestricted line jobs, meaning you’ll be serving on ships or subs or planes or helicopters or as a Marine (with some exception). If “going to war” and the “crazy stuff” that goes with it bothers you, this may not be a good fit.

Santie50322 said:
But after stumbling upon a YouTube video, talking about life at the Naval Academy, some thing drew me in.
Click to expand...
Life at USNA will take up four years of your initial commitment. You’ll spend at least five more years on active duty. YouTube has a way of glamorizing USNA life, without going deeper into the active-duty component afterward. Know what you’re getting into — including the stressful, demanding, rigorous parts of USNA that challenge even mids who earned stellar grades, and who were leadership and athletic studs in high school.

If you truly want to serve, be open to the other paths: NROTC and OCS. Both are worthy, honorable, traditional paths. If becoming an officer is truly your goal, USNA is just one way there. It just happens to be the most difficult one. Best wishes.
 
I'm going to put in my 2 cents on this as well. It seems like you are learning a lot of great information but still have so much to learn. First, your parents. While you are 18 and can make your own choices, it is nice to try to get them in your corner. However, this isn't always possible and at some point you need to make the decision that is right for you. In addition, the MILITARY (Army, Navy, Air Force, Mariens, and Space Force...you can also add in the Guard for several branches as well) have so many different opportunities. You may see War and you might not. Some jobs never leave the USA. There is so much research you still need to do.

I'm also going to put my 2 cents in on enlisting...yes, I said it. There are some amazing jobs and opportunities with enlisting as well. You could even enlist, then go to a service academy after a year or two. Or you could enlist go to college part time and become an officer later. You could enlist and get your GI Bill to pay for college after your term is up.

I was married to an enlisted Airman (Air Force) for 15 years. He never deployed or left the USA. His job just didn't allow it. He is now retired. The military was a good fit for us. I have a son enlisted now, has a pretty safe job, and is going to college part-time thru ERAU. In high school he did not do great with his GPA. I have another son that will be attending a Service Academy in the fall and will become the first officer in our family. If he gets his dream job, he will be in the most "danger"...if you want to call it that. There's a risk everyday when we walk out our front door IMO.

My point is, keep exploring all the benefits and negative sides to each branch of military. They are all respectable branches with different jobs and purposes for the overall good for our country.

Also, side note, going either officer or enlisted you will need to pass the medical evaluation. That could be a battle as well and something that might need more exploring on your end.

PS. Have you taken the ASVAB? I know it is typically used for enlisting, but you could use the results to see what jobs would be best suited for you, either in the military or in the civilian sector. Good luck in your future endeavors.
 
MidCakePa said:
This! You seem to have had an awakening. Your interest seems genuine. You still have a lot to learn about what this entails. So go to the USNA website and review every page, link, tab and pull-down.


No matter what your job is in the Navy or Marine Corps, your central and ultimate role is to lead sailors or Marines in the act of making war. USNA produces officers for unrestricted line jobs, meaning you’ll be serving on ships or subs or planes or helicopters or as a Marine (with some exception). If “going to war” and the “crazy stuff” that goes with it bothers you, this may not be a good fit.


Life at USNA will take up four years of your initial commitment. You’ll spend at least five more years on active duty. YouTube has a way of glamorizing USNA life, without going deeper into the active-duty component afterward. Know what you’re getting into — including the stressful, demanding, rigorous parts of USNA that challenge even mids who earned stellar grades, and who were leadership and athletic studs in high school.

If you truly want to serve, be open to the other paths: NROTC and OCS. Both are worthy, honorable, traditional paths. If becoming an officer is truly your goal, USNA is just one way there. It just happens to be the most difficult one. Best wishes.
Click to expand...
Referring to the "going to war" and "crazy stuff", I was meaning those were my thoughts before, when I was around 13 and 14. I don't think that way now, nor does it bother me. I thought that because I didn't know or understand. Sorry if that wasn't clear T-T.

I completely agree that youtube glamorizes the academy. I made sure to research and am still researching what day-to-day life at the academy will actually be like and not a sugarcoated version of it. I know I have a LOT to research and to understand about what having a career in the Navy will be like and what attending the academy will entail.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my post and give helpful comments.
 
You have a few things working against you with your grades, eyes, and back. You've gotten some good advice on what to do on the academic side, the best way forward is either 4 year or 2 year college, enroll in classes similar to what a Plebe would be in, and get it done (A's or high B's) in those. If they have cross country / track, join those teams. If it's a highly competitive D1 school in XC and Track, and you don't have the times to walk on, join the Running Club at the school if there is one. If there isn't, create one!

For your eyes and back, there's lots of posts with links to what the Medical Standards are. Look at those standards and see how your situation fits into those. Then, perhaps reach out to Mr. Mullen on the DoDMERB forum for his opinion. The good thing about going to school for a year or two is it gives you time to "remediate" any medical issues that you have and more data points for DoDMERB and medical boards to make decisions for waivers if needed.
 
I would suggest looking at class profiles. That will show ‘what it takes’ to get in.

It’s a competition. And whomever the SA seems the best candidate (with a few exceptions), wins.

While it will never be a ‘yes’, unless you try, make sure and have solid alternate plans.

Look at USNA.edu for guidance about what classes to take in college, and excel. You will need to demonstrate:

Leadership
Academics
Fitness

to even have a shot

Beyond that you must be academically, medically and secure a nomination to compete.

Good luck to you! Unfortunately, WANTING IT BADLY isn’t enough. You will need to demonstrate, and be qualified, to win the slate.

Lastly, I didn’t get a sense of WHY you want to be an officer. What drives your desire to be a Naval Offficer?

Tons and tons of advice about the forums that will address your questions in your post.
 

Great posts above. Please do some research to confirm whether your corrected vision, spinal curvature or any other conditions are or are not disqualifying conditions. Certainly the scoliosis would require AMI (additional medical information reviewed) and a waiver. Confirm what you can see at with corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) - WITH glasses everything is still fuzzy across the room? Can you get new, stronger glasses, or is that not fixable? Find out so you know.

You state you don't want a traditional college experience. If you were one of my children, I would be honest to share your accomplishments thus far do not warrant admission to USNA, which you already know, and that you'll need to demonstrate excellence to be competitive and that college would be a great place to do so. I agree with not racking up debt. I would find a community or affordable state 4 year university that has a NROTC unit (Example Pima CC) , and join as a college programmer. excel with a 4.0 - choose your courses carefully to ensure you do so (rate my professor, etc.). Excel in your fitness and learn like a sponge in the unit on military courtesies and customs. And reapply to USNA after 1 semester and again next year if you get that 4.0 and have a recommendation from your NROTC PNS. Also, you start over after transferring to USNA and do 4 years there - you wouldn't do say 2 years at a state school and 2 years at USNA - but if you want it, then go for it.

Or, enlist, and see if you can make it through your DODMETS medical / vision exams with your medical concerns. Get disciplined, experience, and then apply to the service academies after a few years of service. My son's buddy did this after serving in the marines, and going to prep school for 1 year, is now at USNA. Have you looked into prep school as an option toward training to serve as an officer?

Lastly, have a good discussion with the person you see in the mirror - I see a unwavering grit/ resolve for those who wish to serve who would take the training in any path they could - if not SA, would accept ROTC, if neither, would pursue OCS - they have a preference (some want SA, some want OCS, some want ROTC), but they wouldn't just dismiss a path to get there so completely vs having a path to be an officer. Just with yourself decide if you're committed to do this or just interested. In your post I don't see the same resolve - is it there? If a pig and chicken open up a breakfast restaurant called "Ham and Eggs" - the pig is committed, the chicken is interested. which are you? You'll need to be committed / all-in to get through officer training.

Good luck and keep learning, regroup on optimizing your fitness, and get ready to do great academically in college - if you're medically not able to serve in the armed forces without restrictions, look into restricted line paths. Consider too volunteer or other service paths (CIA IT, Civil Air Patrol, Air Force JROTC, homeland, state department, etc.
 
Being only an highschooler AROTC scholarship applicant right now, I can't say I have any professional or worthwhile advice concerning your situation. I would like to say, though, I really admire your drive and passion for your new-found goal (USNA), and I think it's very inspiring the way you have set out to do this. Just look forward and focus on what you can do now.
 
Consider what are your final goals. SAs are a great goal but may be unattainable for a year or two. The outcome after ROTC or the SAs is the same. Debt is a huge concern for everyone or at least it should be. Are there any 2 years schools around with access to cross-town ROTC units? Are there any 4 year schools that are financially reachable with ROTC units? Can you afford college without taking on massive amounts of debt?

With respect to extra curricular activities - college will have limited chances early on and grades are more important. Volunteer work would probably look favorably but not at the cost of having stellar grades. Participation in ROTC may be enough - but again - not at the expense of grades.

Don't worry about the medical part for now...

If finances are a major concern - and debt is not an option or desired - and IF the military is what you want to be in - you could consider enlisting. I'm not a huge fan of recommending that path but it is a viable, time consuming option that has risk. It does solve most financial issues with school and has pathways to a service academy. It is the one that I took...again...not highly recommended if you have the financial ability to cover college. Typical pathway for an enlisted to officer usually means being the best or close to the best at everything. Top graduate from boot camp, training schools, Junior Sailor of the Quarter/Year, Volunteer Work, College at Night etc. 2-3 years of performing as a top sailor can get you into USNA or Prep School.

USNA is not the only service academy...consider the others as well. USMMA seems to frequently be a Plan B school for many that end up at USAFA/USNA etc - at least according to the appointment list on this site.
 
As a mom with 3 very different kids, I will tell you what I would if you were one of mine.

First, not everyone is suited for a service academy, or college or anything their heart desires just because they want it. Despite what social media and motivational posters would have you believe, it takes more than just wanting something to get it. You have to work for it, earn it and show up every day for it. Life is not Legally Blonde where the girl goes to Harvard Law on a whim because she knows how to scrapbook a vision board and makes a great promo video. It isn't just that you are late to the game in getting your resume in shape for this process, it's that I am not 100% confident that you understand what you are signing up for. I'm an attorney. Law school was hard -- harder 27 years ago for a woman with no family support -- but still hard. It's hard to get in and it's hard to finish and when you get out, it's hard to get a job. USNA is exponentially harder to get into because there are plenty of law schools and only one USNA. I don't say this as a means to discourage you, but roughly 16K people apply every year and most don't get past the first step. Those are kids who had a 4.0+ and athletics and extra curriculars and kids who know they can pass medical without a waiver. You are looking at a much harder path than those kids. Do you want it badly enough to see that through? Read the stories on here of kids who applied over and over until they finally got it...or never did. Do you have that in you? Is this a dream you woke up with today and tomorrow will be a different one or is this truly your life's passion? If it isn't the 2nd one, find a new dream and go after it. If it is the 2nd one, get to work! You have a lot to do before next application cycle. Stay the course, focus and push yourself harder than you ever have in your entire life and you may stand a fighting chance. And you'll have a great essay about overcoming a challenge. But be honest with yourself about which it is. Life is too short to chase a dream for the wrong reasons.

Lastly, the money topic. I know free sounds great when you look at the student debt crisis, but that is not a reason to pursue a service academy appointment. In fact, if you mention that's your motivation on your application, to your BGO or in your nomination applications, you will likely get shot down. The taxpayers are not looking to fund your education because we're just nice people. They are looking to train officers who will be dedicated to serving. This is not a scholarship you get because you wrote a good essay. It's a lifestyle you are choosing for at least 9 years if no longer. Do not do this for the money. I know student debt is terrible. I put myself through undergrad and law school with debt because it was my only option and I am still paying for it. I would never wish that on my kids or anyone else's kid. But please do some soul searching. Don't do this because it's a free education because you pay for it in ways you may not be considering.

If after everything you read here and all of your research, you still believe this is your dream, then go after it with everything you have and hope it's enough.
 
Santie50322 said:
.... the NROTC route to get there just doesn’t line up with me. I never wanted the typical college experience. I always wanted have an experience unique to me and different from my peers. Heck, I even thought about studying abroad and things of that nature. So I view the NROTC path a path for people who want that college experience, but for me: I don’t.
Click to expand...
I would advise you to at least be open to NROTC and reach out to a local unit if possible to get a better understanding of the NROTC mission and experience. While it certainly has elements of the typical college experience, you will still get exposure to the Navy/Marine Corps as an NROTC midshipman. It's not USNA - nothing will be except for USNA itself - but it's still a respectable route to commissioning. And if you're looking for a different experience from your fellow students, I assure you that your experience will be different from the majority of your peers; looking at it from the grand scheme of things, only a handful of people will choose to participate in NROTC in college. At the same time, I understand your sentiment. I wish you luck regardless of which path you choose.
 
If you are looking for a military environment, consider one of the SMCs or JMCs. You'll get the structure you are looking for, the opportunity to participate in ROTC, and can continue on a non-commissioning track if the medical issues prevent you from having a military career. I think all of the SMCs save the University of North Georgia offer NROTC, not sure about the JMCs.
 
The youtube videos about USNA are not remotely accurate depictions of what life there is like.

I will say that once you’re commissioned, nobody gives a hoot what your commissioning source was. USNA, ROTC, OCS, these are different paths but they take you to the same place.

Have you looked into OCS? A civilian college will let you focus on graduating with a stellar academic record. Academics aren’t always given priority at USNA as there are many other obligations. OCS can also help you pay for college debt once you join. You will be completely immersed in military training for several months if you go that route also, if that’s something you desire.
 
You do need to come to grips with the reality that we are talking about the profession of arms. Regardless of the branch, rank, accession, your mission is to put “warheads on foreheads”, as they say.
 
I would recommend you reach out to USNA admissions around the end of the school year and talk through were you have been (high school grades, current SAT, extracurriculars) and what your plan for next year is. And see if it is even in the realm of possibility. To be honest there is a base minimum for even applying and I am not sure you would meet it at this point. They could certainly advise you on what your freshman college course load would need to be to be able to apply. You have roughly a 2.9 cumulative GPA based on the numbers above. Academically, a community college will probably be your best fit directly out of high school.

Also, you mention you want a "unique experience" I do think maybe you might be glorifying the idea of USNA a bit. It is college, a lot of it is like almost any other top tier college. You go to class...(really hard classes), lots of required activities and you spend most of any free time studying. You live in a dorm. You eat cafeteria food. All with the added bonus of not being able to be "unique" at all. You are told when to be where, what to wear...ect. You can't go home for the weekend if you are homesick or it's your best friend's birthday, ect.

There are lots of options for young college age people looking for unique or interesting experiences. They don't all have to involve going into debt for college. You could take a gap year, join the peace corp, take a certification course to teach English as a foreign language and teach abroad, ect., so many options that aren't military focused.

If you have decided that Navy and specifically USNA are really "it" for you, you need to be prepared to do a lot of work just to get to the able to apply step. (ie, take Calculus, Physics, Chemistry and do really well).

Best wishes for all the decisions ahead!
 
Santie50322 said:
But my initial roadblock was my parents.
Click to expand...
My Dad wasn't in my life much when I enlisted in 1999. My Mom was reluctantly involved with the process. My uncle, a pseudo-Dad for me then, was vehemently against my joining.

Now all of them brag to anyone who will listen about their son/nephew, the senior Naval Officer, pentagon, blah blah, etc. :D My point? It's your life so go for it.
 
Santie50322 said:
Hello service academy forums, my situation is complex. I am an 18 year old, female senior, in high school and I discovered the service academies in March of my junior year (2022). I had no idea what they were and had never heard of them. After doing some intense research into them, I knew this is where I belonged. But, after seeing their standards, I knew I was no match. It would be absolutely comical for me to apply. My freshman year I had a 3.0 GPA, with no extracurriculars. I was going to run track, but the season never finished or even began because of Covid. My sophomore year I had a 2.9 because I failed geometry, and still no extracurriculars. My junior year it went down even more to a 2.2; I had failed seven classes, and still the extracurriculars were missing. This was also the time that I found out about the academies. Now during my senior year, I have a 2.6 GPA. If I didn’t fail all of those classes, with just my first semester senior grades, I would have an unweighted GPA of 3.7. But it doesn’t matter. What it could’ve been because it is unattainable at this point. I coasted through high school with no end goal. I didn’t do any sports, clubs, or anything outside of school. Part of the reason was Covid. I revolted into becoming a homebody, which I knew I wasn’t, but since I couldn’t go out, I didn’t. But after stumbling upon a YouTube video, talking about life at the Naval Academy, some thing drew me in. I researched the school, and what it would be like to be an officer in the navy. When I first heard about the military, instantly I was turned away. Firstly, I thought it was only the army and you had to go to war and do all of that crazy stuff. I had no idea there were other jobs in different branches of the military. I also had no idea that there were officers I thought you had to enlist and work your way up and that’s how you became someone in charge of other enlisted personnel. Once I did the research, my mind was blown. I didn’t know there was this other side of the military. What is also kind of strange is that around this time when I was researching about the academies and being an officer in the military, I found out that I had two uncles that had served in the Navy, and that my grandfather was a desert storm veteran. Once I became a senior and realized that I actually do want a meaningful career, I knew that being an officer lined up great. But my initial roadblock was my parents. They are not very pro military and don’t see the benefit or good side of being in the military, which I totally understand. But I don’t think they know that there are two sides : enlisted and officer and that I would be on the officer side. After trying to imply to them that I was thinking about the Navy as a career option, they were not receptive. My father was saying that it wasn’t wise to be apart of that and my mother said that she knows I wouldn’t like it. [Just a side note: I’m still a little scared of my parents disapproval and them not supporting me.] But what I had failed to tell them was that this path would answer all of my qualms that I had about college in the first place: money, student loans, money, student loans, and debt, debt, and more debt. I’ve seen first hand how debt controls peoples lives and I knew for a fact that I didn’t want that and I was going to do everything I could to not let that be me. I sparsely told them about the academies, but after seeing their reactions to me having a career in the military period, I chickened out. I told myself maybe they’re right and it’s not like I would get in anyway if I did apply for class of 2027 at USNA. So I put that dream aside and said that I was going to go to community college (to get an outstanding GPA) and then go to university to become a lawyer. (Also, when I told my parents about that plan they were all on board, but rejected the military path. Hm.) But recently, USNA is taking over my thoughts again. I know that I would be absolutely devastated if I never even applied. Getting rejected is one thing, but not applying would be hell. I don’t want to be 24 year old saying that I wished I had applied when now I absolutely cannot apply because of aging out. So, after giving some background, I need some assistance and some thoughts and critiques about my new plan because this is my goal and I will apply.

Firstly, school. I obviously would be a transfer student. I would have to do everything I needed/ wanted to do in high school over 4 years, in 1 or 2 years. After looking on USNA’s page about college applicants, it says that going to a 4-year is better than a 2-year. I will strive for going to a 4-year, but hopefully, financially, I will be able to attend one. The goal in this section is to get a competitive GPA and SAT score . I almost surprised myself with how much my work ethic has changed compared to last year (junior). I know that I will be able to achieve this. Fortunately, with the SAT you can take it over and over and over, unlike the GPA. I’ve been doing practice questions and tests on Khan Academy and took an SAT prep class at my school. I feel confident in achieving a competitive score and GPA.

Secondly, medical. I have scoliosis and wear glasses. My scoliosis was at 26° and I had to wear a back brace from when I was 13-16 years old. You can see the curve in my back, but it’s not drastic. I have never ever ever had any pain whatsoever in my back, shoulders, legs, or hips. When I got diagnosed, I was running track competitively and was working out and lifting weights during this time and never felt a thing. I was quite astonished when they told me I had it because I thought that it was supposed to hurt. I’m 18 now and haven’t had an X-ray in 4 years. At the final doctors appointment so they could tell me I didn’t need to wear the brace anymore, they looked at the latest X-ray and said that it was now at 24°. Still don’t feel anything, but am hoping that that doesn’t interfere with anything. I researched it a while ago and I think I’m within the curvature regulations, but I could be wrong. I think my curve is too large to be pilot, but I’m not entirely sure. Now my vision. I’ve worn glasses since I was 7 as blindness runs in my maternal side. I honestly don’t know my prescription, but I do know that faces are blurry from across a gym (sitting in the bleachers), if that puts things in perspective. Hoping again that that won’t interfere.

Thirdly, extracurriculars. I love volunteering and helping out. Currently, I am a track manager for my school’s boys track team 26-35 hours a week. Track meets are very long. The managers do a LOT, and give a LOT of time, but it is honestly really fun (minus sitting in the cold). I also volunteered to participate in my school’s international festival. In the summer of Freshman year I was a group leader for my old school's church's VBS. I’m hoping to be apart of more organizations and volunteering more during college. It probably won’t be enough time to get leadership in organizations, but i will definitely try.

Fourthly, sports. As I’ve mentioned before, I’ve run track. Although I didn’t run in high school, I desperately want to run again in college. I know I’ll need to work twice as hard to even tryout. But I’m willing to put in the work. Say I tried out for a D1/D2 (most likely D2) school and made it and ran for a year. Would I be able to still transfer to USNA and run track? Would it be like I was being recruited or would running track not matter at all in admissions on the athletic side? Not that it would have an impact on me choosing to run. Also, over the summer I am unsure if I should work to save up some money, or use the time to train to tryout for track.

Fifthly, alternative options. I think about the NROTC route, because in the end, I want a career in the navy. But, the NROTC route to get there just doesn’t line up with me. I never wanted the typical college experience. I always wanted have an experience unique to me and different from my peers. Heck, I even thought about studying abroad and things of that nature. So I view the NROTC path a path for people who want that college experience, but for me: I don’t. I like the military 24/7 structure the academy does, and the having every single student there going through a similar experience. While I am looking to join a unit to experience the Navy some, I don’t think it would be a good path for me personally to get to where I’m going. Like riding a charter bus, when you could ride in a car. Both are going the same place, but one is a better ride for you personally.

I know some of my paragraphs don’t have direct questions. I will greatly appreciate comment and critiques and indirect answers to my indirect questions. I’m not really sure who to talk to because I know absolutely no one actively in the military or who went the officer route. Any words that anyone has to say about my situation will be digested. Any advice on how to make the academy want me, how to make myself a competitive applicant, and if I'm just crazy on thinking I could do it all in a year or two would be a great place to start! I'm all ears! Thank you so so so so much for taking the time out of your day for reading this and/or giving any comments, critiques, and advice. Have a blessed day!

(My apologies for the grammar mistakes, I really just needed to get this out of my head and on paper.) ~Santorella V. aka Santie
Click to expand...
Current HS Senior and applicant here. Just giving the perspective of one of your peers. You might've had a rough HS career, and it happens. Don't put yourself down because of it. It isn't the end of the road just yet, and there is an opportunity laid out for you in the form of either a community college, 4-year, or NROTC. Focus on making yourself a leader, and do everything you can to excel academically and physically. Research more about the Navy, its programs, and the path of an officer. It'll be a long road, but worth the struggle. Keep fighting.

-D.
 
Santie50322 said:
Hello service academy forums, my situation is complex. I am an 18 year old, female senior, in high school and I discovered the service academies in March of my junior year (2022). I had no idea what they were and had never heard of them. After doing some intense research into them, I knew this is where I belonged. But, after seeing their standards, I knew I was no match. It would be absolutely comical for me to apply. My freshman year I had a 3.0 GPA, with no extracurriculars. I was going to run track, but the season never finished or even began because of Covid. My sophomore year I had a 2.9 because I failed geometry, and still no extracurriculars. My junior year it went down even more to a 2.2; I had failed seven classes, and still the extracurriculars were missing. This was also the time that I found out about the academies. Now during my senior year, I have a 2.6 GPA. If I didn’t fail all of those classes, with just my first semester senior grades, I would have an unweighted GPA of 3.7. But it doesn’t matter. What it could’ve been because it is unattainable at this point. I coasted through high school with no end goal. I didn’t do any sports, clubs, or anything outside of school. Part of the reason was Covid. I revolted into becoming a homebody, which I knew I wasn’t, but since I couldn’t go out, I didn’t. But after stumbling upon a YouTube video, talking about life at the Naval Academy, some thing drew me in. I researched the school, and what it would be like to be an officer in the navy. When I first heard about the military, instantly I was turned away. Firstly, I thought it was only the army and you had to go to war and do all of that crazy stuff. I had no idea there were other jobs in different branches of the military. I also had no idea that there were officers I thought you had to enlist and work your way up and that’s how you became someone in charge of other enlisted personnel. Once I did the research, my mind was blown. I didn’t know there was this other side of the military. What is also kind of strange is that around this time when I was researching about the academies and being an officer in the military, I found out that I had two uncles that had served in the Navy, and that my grandfather was a desert storm veteran. Once I became a senior and realized that I actually do want a meaningful career, I knew that being an officer lined up great. But my initial roadblock was my parents. They are not very pro military and don’t see the benefit or good side of being in the military, which I totally understand. But I don’t think they know that there are two sides : enlisted and officer and that I would be on the officer side. After trying to imply to them that I was thinking about the Navy as a career option, they were not receptive. My father was saying that it wasn’t wise to be apart of that and my mother said that she knows I wouldn’t like it. [Just a side note: I’m still a little scared of my parents disapproval and them not supporting me.] But what I had failed to tell them was that this path would answer all of my qualms that I had about college in the first place: money, student loans, money, student loans, and debt, debt, and more debt. I’ve seen first hand how debt controls peoples lives and I knew for a fact that I didn’t want that and I was going to do everything I could to not let that be me. I sparsely told them about the academies, but after seeing their reactions to me having a career in the military period, I chickened out. I told myself maybe they’re right and it’s not like I would get in anyway if I did apply for class of 2027 at USNA. So I put that dream aside and said that I was going to go to community college (to get an outstanding GPA) and then go to university to become a lawyer. (Also, when I told my parents about that plan they were all on board, but rejected the military path. Hm.) But recently, USNA is taking over my thoughts again. I know that I would be absolutely devastated if I never even applied. Getting rejected is one thing, but not applying would be hell. I don’t want to be 24 year old saying that I wished I had applied when now I absolutely cannot apply because of aging out. So, after giving some background, I need some assistance and some thoughts and critiques about my new plan because this is my goal and I will apply.

Firstly, school. I obviously would be a transfer student. I would have to do everything I needed/ wanted to do in high school over 4 years, in 1 or 2 years. After looking on USNA’s page about college applicants, it says that going to a 4-year is better than a 2-year. I will strive for going to a 4-year, but hopefully, financially, I will be able to attend one. The goal in this section is to get a competitive GPA and SAT score . I almost surprised myself with how much my work ethic has changed compared to last year (junior). I know that I will be able to achieve this. Fortunately, with the SAT you can take it over and over and over, unlike the GPA. I’ve been doing practice questions and tests on Khan Academy and took an SAT prep class at my school. I feel confident in achieving a competitive score and GPA.

Secondly, medical. I have scoliosis and wear glasses. My scoliosis was at 26° and I had to wear a back brace from when I was 13-16 years old. You can see the curve in my back, but it’s not drastic. I have never ever ever had any pain whatsoever in my back, shoulders, legs, or hips. When I got diagnosed, I was running track competitively and was working out and lifting weights during this time and never felt a thing. I was quite astonished when they told me I had it because I thought that it was supposed to hurt. I’m 18 now and haven’t had an X-ray in 4 years. At the final doctors appointment so they could tell me I didn’t need to wear the brace anymore, they looked at the latest X-ray and said that it was now at 24°. Still don’t feel anything, but am hoping that that doesn’t interfere with anything. I researched it a while ago and I think I’m within the curvature regulations, but I could be wrong. I think my curve is too large to be pilot, but I’m not entirely sure. Now my vision. I’ve worn glasses since I was 7 as blindness runs in my maternal side. I honestly don’t know my prescription, but I do know that faces are blurry from across a gym (sitting in the bleachers), if that puts things in perspective. Hoping again that that won’t interfere.

Thirdly, extracurriculars. I love volunteering and helping out. Currently, I am a track manager for my school’s boys track team 26-35 hours a week. Track meets are very long. The managers do a LOT, and give a LOT of time, but it is honestly really fun (minus sitting in the cold). I also volunteered to participate in my school’s international festival. In the summer of Freshman year I was a group leader for my old school's church's VBS. I’m hoping to be apart of more organizations and volunteering more during college. It probably won’t be enough time to get leadership in organizations, but i will definitely try.

Fourthly, sports. As I’ve mentioned before, I’ve run track. Although I didn’t run in high school, I desperately want to run again in college. I know I’ll need to work twice as hard to even tryout. But I’m willing to put in the work. Say I tried out for a D1/D2 (most likely D2) school and made it and ran for a year. Would I be able to still transfer to USNA and run track? Would it be like I was being recruited or would running track not matter at all in admissions on the athletic side? Not that it would have an impact on me choosing to run. Also, over the summer I am unsure if I should work to save up some money, or use the time to train to tryout for track.

Fifthly, alternative options. I think about the NROTC route, because in the end, I want a career in the navy. But, the NROTC route to get there just doesn’t line up with me. I never wanted the typical college experience. I always wanted have an experience unique to me and different from my peers. Heck, I even thought about studying abroad and things of that nature. So I view the NROTC path a path for people who want that college experience, but for me: I don’t. I like the military 24/7 structure the academy does, and the having every single student there going through a similar experience. While I am looking to join a unit to experience the Navy some, I don’t think it would be a good path for me personally to get to where I’m going. Like riding a charter bus, when you could ride in a car. Both are going the same place, but one is a better ride for you personally.

I know some of my paragraphs don’t have direct questions. I will greatly appreciate comment and critiques and indirect answers to my indirect questions. I’m not really sure who to talk to because I know absolutely no one actively in the military or who went the officer route. Any words that anyone has to say about my situation will be digested. Any advice on how to make the academy want me, how to make myself a competitive applicant, and if I'm just crazy on thinking I could do it all in a year or two would be a great place to start! I'm all ears! Thank you so so so so much for taking the time out of your day for reading this and/or giving any comments, critiques, and advice. Have a blessed day!

(My apologies for the grammar mistakes, I really just needed to get this out of my head and on paper.) ~Santorella V. aka Santie
Click to expand...
Current senior in high school in a similar situation with bad grades and hoping to work something out in college. Hoping we are both able to make it through and get that appointment soon. It would be great to keep in touch!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top