As a parent of a current USMA plebe I’m going to interject my 2 cents. Technology has given grade school parents the ability to monitor their child’s grades, due dates, test dates, etc..almost daily. This affords us the ability, if we so desire, to micromanage and stay on top of their success. This goes away the minute you say goodbye to them on R day. If up to this point you have relied upon your parents to manage your schedule, stay on top of your homework, remind you of test dates, motivate you to study, etc. then the schedule, academic rigor, military/physical demands and responsibilities will quickly become overwhelming. All this can wear on even the most prepared cadet which in turn can outwardly appear as a lack of motivation. It’s an emotional and physical roller coaster. Understanding and buying into the concept of delayed gratification is crucial.
I have three children and not surprisingly they are all very different. With my middle son we rarely had to manage his academics, the other two, not so much. My gut instinct was that he would be prepared to navigate the USMA journey. This has at least held true to date. He told me the cadets that are struggling are the those who do not know how to manage their time, work ahead and utilize every waking minute wisely. It is extremely difficult to wait to the last minute to complete homework, cram for a test or write a paper because you never know when you are going tasked to do something for which you hadn’t planned. West Point provides a myriad of emotional, spiritual and academic support for those that are struggling and need help, but no one is going to be there to constantly micromanage your free time.
So my advice is to look long and hard at your self discipline and motivation. If you have it then more than likely you will be successful. If not, and you truly believe in your heart that West Point (or any other SA) is for you, then begin now learning and implementing these habits of success.