Any advice, from a parental point of view, for high school? I'm headed into my Freshman year and want to go to USMA. Also, how did your daughter and/or son approach you about attending? I'm not sure how open my parents are to the idea of me going to USMA, and don't really know how to approach them with it.
My son had never shown any interest, but after USMA kept popping up in college searches as a reach school based on his SAT scores, he decided to throw a hail Mary. He had no varsity sports, but with some work he was able to pass the CFT. He is an Eagle Scout, and was an XO in his NJROTC unit. He had a lot of music and theatre experience, so he was really comfortable being in front of people for interviews ect. He also did a college class on WWII that was a collaboration of the National WWII museum and a college in Louisiana the summer before, because he's a history buff. The class took place in Normandy France. This ended up working out for him since it gave him something interesting to talk about in his interviews.
My daughter visited several times, and was super impressed with the interaction between the instructors and cadets, as well as the camaraderie within the Corps. She is better positioned with her application since she has a varsity letter, is drum major of a large marching band, and is the commanding officer of her NJROTC unit. You never know though. There only has to be one kid they like more.
As for my advice, I would really focus on a meaningful way to impact your community, and be prepared to present it in interviews and in writing on your application. My daughter is a great trumpet player, and she plays Taps for veterans funerals through Bugles Across America. She loves doing it, and it allows her to help others using her unique talents. Since you're going into your freshman year, you have time to reflect on what you're good at and how to best use your gifts to help others, rather than just trying to maximize community service hours. Of course, doing your best academically is critical, as is taking the SAT and ACT early and often.
Don't automatically assume that your parents wouldn't be open to one of the service academies. They have been around for a long time, and their prestige is well known. Best of luck to you!