Good CFA score?

Here is a data point: at PPW it was noted that only 54% of Plebes passed the initial PRT evaluation that is administered the first weekend of Plebe Summer (98% passed the actual PRT at the end of Plebe Summer). DS was very surprised at how many really out of shape young people reported for Plebe Summer, given the perceived emphasis on the CFA. Being in great shape makes PS much more tolerable. But I question if much weight is placed on the CFA (compared to other factors) in the admissions process. This does, however suggest that PS will whip the less-than-fit into shape.
 
The weight put on the CFA varies. For a candidate with little or no organized sports, or someone who only does say a martial art sport, it will likely count a lot as it's the only real measure of fitness of the type that is expected at USNA. OTOH, take a state champion swimmer who doesn't do great on the run. Perhaps, the CFA isn't as important. USNA knows this athlete is in good shape (other than not a great runner) and figures they'll get the person into a decent enough runner to pass the PFT once at USNA. Take a third situation where two candidates are generally equal and one has maxed the CFA and the other barely passed. Could it make a difference? Maybe.

Not showing up in shape for PS is really a different issue. Some of that stems from the month or more "off" between end of senior year and start of PS. Some candidates use this time wisely and get in shape. Others enjoy life without working out sufficiently and have a rough time of it come end of June.
 
DS was very surprised at how many really out of shape young people reported for Plebe Summer, given the perceived emphasis on the CFA

The key word here is "perceived" emphasis. There is a lot of emphasis on CFA on this Forum, and that doesn't necessarily translate to Admissions. '85 is correct, how the CFA is applied really depends. A great CFA is not going to get a weak candidate in, and a weak CFA (albeit passing) , isn't going to keep a good candidate out. The CFA is probably most important if Admissions/Noms & Appointments is having to select between two otherwise equal candidates.

That said, all elements of the Application process are important -- don't leave points on the field by slacking off and not doing your best on the CFA !

Not showing up in shape for PS is really a different issue.
This can't be emphasized enough. It is actually one of the few things I recall specifically from my first BGO training almost 20 years ago, when they told us if there was one message to give incoming Plebes, it was to arrive in shape ! It's simple.... Plebe Summer is part physical and part mental; if you are in great shape and can take the physical part off the table, the mental part is easier.
 
My DS said that Plebe Summer was by far, the easiest part of that first year. Being in good shape already, was surely part of the equation.
 
Suggest adopting a different mindset. Instead of "good enough," the goal should be to prepare yourself for success AT the Academy. IMHO the CFA and the SAT/ACT scores are not indicators of athletic ability or intelligence, instead they are measures of a Candidate's desire, determination, and willingness to do what it takes to succeed. Expect to Win! Don't give up the ship!
 
Here is a data point: at PPW it was noted that only 54% of Plebes passed the initial PRT evaluation that is administered the first weekend of Plebe Summer (98% passed the actual PRT at the end of Plebe Summer). DS was very surprised at how many really out of shape young people reported for Plebe Summer, given the perceived emphasis on the CFA. Being in great shape makes PS much more tolerable. But I question if much weight is placed on the CFA (compared to other factors) in the admissions process. This does, however suggest that PS will whip the less-than-fit into shape.
This is because your son clearly prepared himself for success AT the Academy. Instead of focusing on being "good enough" to get in. My Mid sees this all the time, especially as a Detailer during plebe summer.
 
Back
Top