Field Force Interview
- Thread starter BSCAR
- Start date
Great question! So, FFL come in all shapes and sizes with a wide breath of experience. Some FFL may be a parent, some will be a WP alum, some have spent a career in the military/Army. During SLE a Cadet will conduct an interview as part of their leadership requirements. In some parts of our nation there no FFLs available at all. So with such a wide aspect FFL, interviews are not required for admissions in to WP unlike USNA where they have a BGO. However, a FFL can be a great benefit to guild you on being successful. They have limited access to your file and can see how far you have completed your file. They can't tell you how competitive you are and if they do, its usually based on other applicants they have seen. They will have communications with your RC. They can have input or recommendation for an AoG scholarship. Some FFLs will be a panel member for your congress persons office and help with the decision process.
I would encourage you to continue seeking advice and input with your FFL They do have your best interest in mind.
Push Hard, Press Forward
I would encourage you to continue seeking advice and input with your FFL They do have your best interest in mind.
Push Hard, Press Forward
The FFR interview can have a significant effect on whether or not you are offered an appointment.
Basically, it can make you or break you.
I think this surprises some folks since the interview is not a requirement. Frankly, it has surprised me how much RCs listen to the FFRs.
I'm sure it is RC dependent, but from my experience, RCs value the opinions of the FFRs as we are the 'eyes' on the candidates. There are candidates whose application walks on water, but in person, well - it becomes apparent that the candidate is not WP material.
Likewise - a thumbs up from the FFR is respected by the RC. Also, if something of note comes out in the interview that was not in the application, the RC can award more WCS points to that candidate.
Basically, it can make you or break you.
I think this surprises some folks since the interview is not a requirement. Frankly, it has surprised me how much RCs listen to the FFRs.
I'm sure it is RC dependent, but from my experience, RCs value the opinions of the FFRs as we are the 'eyes' on the candidates. There are candidates whose application walks on water, but in person, well - it becomes apparent that the candidate is not WP material.
Likewise - a thumbs up from the FFR is respected by the RC. Also, if something of note comes out in the interview that was not in the application, the RC can award more WCS points to that candidate.
If a FFL is not available in your area, thats okay. An interview is not required for the admissions process. But if a FFL is available I would make a point to talk with him/her for some insight.
Push Hard, Press Forward
Here's an awkward scenario...
What if you do have an FFR in the area (congressional district), and they aren't responding to your requests? Yes, this person answers my calls (after 2-3 attempts each time - average 1 to 2 weeks to finally get this person the phone), but this individual doesn't seem to know much about my file nor reads my emails. It's been like this since July. Every time I call, I've got to start from ground zero again (ie. repeat test, CFA scores, extracurriculars, etc). Yes, this is happening even after receiving a nomination when the pool of candidates has dwindled.
I've been dealing directly with my Regional Coordinator at USMA instead. My RC has been significantly more responsive (same day; worst case next morning).
So Tug_Boat, if I do have an FFR/FFL in the area and they are not responsive, am I at a disadvantage?
BSCAR
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I wouldn't worry too much about it; while they are there to help candidates like you and I they do have lives--jobs, kids/grandkids/, etc. They're likely just otherwise occupied. I thought the same thing for a while, though I figured my FFR wasn't responding because he saw my arrest record and had dismissed me out of hand. But then the day I got my 3Q I got an email from my FFR and got an interview within the week.
bookreader
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You do not need a FFR interview to be accepted to WP. My son did not have one and he is currently a cadet. Yes, we live in an area where there are FRRs, but for whatever the reason, he didn't end up having one of these interviews. There is not one path to WP but rather many paths.
Thats too bad. You have to understand they are volunteers and donate their time.
This is exactly why an FFL interview is not required. You are not at a disadvantage at all. Working with your RC is the best thing, the have the most current and correct information. If your RC happens to travel close to your area, make every opportunity to meet for lunch of dinner.
Push Hard, Press Forward
We're FFRs, not FFLs.
@pallen92x - Just because someone is a FFR, doesn't make them a good one. Unfortunately, you got someone who doesn't have the time or doesn't care. Either way, it is not a reflection on you. Don't try to read anything in to his/her non-responsiveness.
It's good that you reached out to your RC. Don't worry about the FFR.
@pallen92x - Just because someone is a FFR, doesn't make them a good one. Unfortunately, you got someone who doesn't have the time or doesn't care. Either way, it is not a reflection on you. Don't try to read anything in to his/her non-responsiveness.
It's good that you reached out to your RC. Don't worry about the FFR.