Flight Academy or Boys State?

A

another guy

Member
Joined
Jul 8, 2021
Messages
32
I'm a part of my school's AFJROTC program and in December I was offered a slot in the Flight Academy Program (a fully funded scholarship for AFJROTC cadets to get their private pilots license). I finished the subsequent documentation and physicals already and I'm just waiting to be matched with a university. Now, Boy's State starts right after school ends for me, which is also when I assume the FA program will start as well. I'm not sure if the dates will be at the same time, but if they do, which will be more beneficial to my application to USAFA?

Notes:
-I understand that FA has no bearing on WCS other than another "extracurricular" while Boys State has its own category, so on paper, Boy's State is more important
-I spoke to my FFR for USMA and he strongly advised going to boys state
-I'm not even sure if I can opt out of the scholarship anymore
-The chances I get the scholarship again next year is slim (because I've rejected it the first time)

My perspective:
-The Air Force is dedicating ~$22,500 into this scholarship, so they would be happy if their money is being invested back into the Air Force through a USAFA candidate and not a private corporation or just being unused altogether
-USAFA can see that I can handle a tough schedule and can handle several things which matches their curriculum(ish) at USAFA
-It will show I am appreciative of what the Air Force has done for me (I got the scholarship and I might reject it for Boy's State)
-Many other candidates are already going to Boy's State, and while it is extremely useful, more people have Boy's State on their application compared to having their PPL, which would set me apart
-While it would make more sense to go to boys state for maybe USMA or USNA, USAFA would see it differently as per the reasons above
-Having my PPL would be a stable step for another career path if the military goes south and I want to be a pilot
 
What leadership positions will you have? If you have a tom of leadership, Boys State might not be as beneficial for WCS points.

That being said - Boys State was a huge benefit for my son regardless of WCS points.
 
A1Janitor said:
What leadership positions will you have? If you have a tom of leadership, Boys State might not be as beneficial for WCS points.

That being said - Boys State was a huge benefit for my son regardless of WCS points.
Click to expand...
Captain of:
-Cross Country Team
-Outdoor Track Team
-Indoor Track Team
-Biking Club (not school affiliated)

AFJROTC Officer
Junior Executive for Red Cross Club and NHS
Secretary for Key Club
JSA Chapter President (basically debate team)
Student Senate Rep (school government)
and some other things but I'm sure those would fall under extracurriculars rather than leadership

I don't know about the specifics of the WCS scoring and if there's really a cap of the amount of points you can get from leadership though.
 
another guy said:
I'm a part of my school's AFJROTC program and in December I was offered a slot in the Flight Academy Program (a fully funded scholarship for AFJROTC cadets to get their private pilots license). I finished the subsequent documentation and physicals already and I'm just waiting to be matched with a university. Now, Boy's State starts right after school ends for me, which is also when I assume the FA program will start as well. I'm not sure if the dates will be at the same time, but if they do, which will be more beneficial to my application to USAFA?

Notes:
-I understand that FA has no bearing on WCS other than another "extracurricular" while Boys State has its own category, so on paper, Boy's State is more important
-I spoke to my FFR for USMA and he strongly advised going to boys state
-I'm not even sure if I can opt out of the scholarship anymore
-The chances I get the scholarship again next year is slim (because I've rejected it the first time)

My perspective:
-The Air Force is dedicating ~$22,500 into this scholarship, so they would be happy if their money is being invested back into the Air Force through a USAFA candidate and not a private corporation or just being unused altogether
-USAFA can see that I can handle a tough schedule and can handle several things which matches their curriculum(ish) at USAFA
-It will show I am appreciative of what the Air Force has done for me (I got the scholarship and I might reject it for Boy's State)
-Many other candidates are already going to Boy's State, and while it is extremely useful, more people have Boy's State on their application compared to having their PPL, which would set me apart
-While it would make more sense to go to boys state for maybe USMA or USNA, USAFA would see it differently as per the reasons above
-Having my PPL would be a stable step for another career path if the military goes south and I want to be a pilot
Click to expand...
If you were my child, I would advise you to take the scholarship and earn your PPL. I say this because I get the impression that you are more interested in learning to fly than you are in spending a few days at a civics event. Attending Boy's State is a great learning experience but it won't get you into USAFA if you are not a great candidate. Earning your PPL is also a great thing to do, but won't get you into USAFA if you are not a great candidate. If you are a great candidate and chose either one of these activities you have a similar chance of getting in so do what makes you happy.

There are many things you have to do to become a competitive candidate for admission. Play sports and earn a captain's position on your team. Take the most difficult STEM classes your school offers and earn great grades. Study hard for your SAT or ACT exam and do whatever you can to maximize your score. Seek out leadership positions everywhere. Perform community service. Identify teachers who will write compelling recommendations for you. Write excellent essays. Practice for your CFA and try to beat the average scores.

If you do all of these things well, it won't matter if you choose Boy's State or PPL. Both are impressive, so do what you are more interested in.
 
A1Janitor said:
What leadership positions will you have? If you have a tom of leadership, Boys State might not be as beneficial for WCS points.

That being said - Boys State was a huge benefit for my son regardless of WCS points.
Click to expand...
My DD did Girls State last June. She declined the USNA summer session as the "points" for State are valuable for the WCS while NASS gets no points. Hard choice, I know. Good Luck!
 
First off, congratulations! That's a great accomplishment to be able to earn that kind of opportunity. My advice, go for the PPL, hands down, no-brainer. I have my PPL and I also went to Boys state, and I can say that I feel like my PPL was much more important on my applications than Boys State. Also, think about this choice not in the context of the academy, because there is a chance you may end up somewhere else. On one hand, you have an opportunity to get a license that normally costs 10-15 thousand dollars for free, which could be the start of a lifelong career. On the other hand, you get a week-long program that is mostly listening to other people to speak in a college gymnasium.

I apologize if I'm out of line offering unwanted advice, but in my mind, having gone through a similar thing as a candidate, the choice is clear. Have fun flying this summer!
 
DomerDad said:
If you were my child, I would advise you to take the scholarship and earn your PPL. I say this because I get the impression that you are more interested in learning to fly than you are in spending a few days at a civics event. Attending Boy's State is a great learning experience but it won't get you into USAFA if you are not a great candidate. Earning your PPL is also a great thing to do, but won't get you into USAFA if you are not a great candidate. If you are a great candidate and chose either one of these activities you have a similar chance of getting in so do what makes you happy.

There are many things you have to do to become a competitive candidate for admission. Play sports and earn a captain's position on your team. Take the most difficult STEM classes your school offers and earn great grades. Study hard for your SAT or ACT exam and do whatever you can to maximize your score. Seek out leadership positions everywhere. Perform community service. Identify teachers who will write compelling recommendations for you. Write excellent essays. Practice for your CFA and try to beat the average scores.

If you do all of these things well, it won't matter if you choose Boy's State or PPL. Both are impressive, so do what you are more interested in.
Click to expand...
I see thank you!
 
Ger0nim0sal said:
First off, congratulations! That's a great accomplishment to be able to earn that kind of opportunity. My advice, go for the PPL, hands down, no-brainer. I have my PPL and I also went to Boys state, and I can say that I feel like my PPL was much more important on my applications than Boys State. Also, think about this choice not in the context of the academy, because there is a chance you may end up somewhere else. On one hand, you have an opportunity to get a license that normally costs 10-15 thousand dollars for free, which could be the start of a lifelong career. On the other hand, you get a week-long program that is mostly listening to other people to speak in a college gymnasium.

I apologize if I'm out of line offering unwanted advice, but in my mind, having gone through a similar thing as a candidate, the choice is clear. Have fun flying this summer!
Click to expand...
Oh please, your input was extremely helpful as it's pretty much exactly what I'm asking about. I do appreciate the bigger picture and your advice, thank you!
 
That resume doesn’t need points from boys state imo (I am waiting for the military folks to disagree ;) ) - I would take the scholarship.

Great stuff.
 
A1Janitor said:
That resume doesn’t need points from boys state imo (I am waiting for the military folks to disagree ;) ) - I would take the scholarship.

Great stuff.
Click to expand...
Heh, but I would never forgive myself if I just needed those last couple of points down the road. But I definitely understand what you mean!

and again, thank you!
 
another guy said:
Heh, but I would never forgive myself if I just needed those last couple of points down the road. But I definitely understand what you mean!

and again, thank you!
Click to expand...
You will never know if you were missing a few points. Present your best case in the application process. Take the Pilot training. Many, many, fully qualified do not get appointed.
 
I'd say scholarship for sure - with that many leadership elements already, take the amazing opportunity to fly!
 
another guy said:
Heh, but I would never forgive myself if I just needed those last couple of points down the road. But I definitely understand what you mean!

and again, thank you!
Click to expand...
Another way to look at it is that the PPL could be something you could write on your personal statement. You already stated in your op how it would set you apart. If you can take that and write about how it makes you unique and a great candidate for USAFA, then it would make for a stellar essay. While it may not grant points in the same sense as Boys State, it could help give you an impeccable personal statement to submit which is an important component of your application.
 
I vote PPL too. Hopefully, you get to participate in both programs. Focus on all three A's -- academics, athletics and activities -- as noted by others above and you will have a strong record with which to compete. One other recommendation: as noted previously, start formulating plans to seek recommendations letters and direct recommendations for your nominations and AFA application. Create a résumé to provide to your teachers (as I have all my students accomplish) and arrange a meeting to discuss it with them, emphasizing your accomplishments in their area of teaching expertise or other fields. Best of luck!
 
Dragomir said:
Another way to look at it is that the PPL could be something you could write on your personal statement. You already stated in your op how it would set you apart. If you can take that and write about how it makes you unique and a great candidate for USAFA, then it would make for a stellar essay. While it may not grant points in the same sense as Boys State, it could help give you an impeccable personal statement to submit which is an important component of your application.
Click to expand...
I didn't even consider that, I appreciate the advice!

and thank you!
 
AcadAdmCoach said:
I vote PPL too. Hopefully, you get to participate in both programs. Focus on all three A's -- academics, athletics and activities -- as noted by others above and you will have a strong record with which to compete. One other recommendation: as noted previously, start formulating plans to seek recommendations letters and direct recommendations for your nominations and AFA application. Create a résumé to provide to your teachers (as I have all my students accomplish) and arrange a meeting to discuss it with them, emphasizing your accomplishments in their area of teaching expertise or other fields. Best of luck!
Click to expand...
I hope so too. But, I can't thank you enough for the advice!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top