Hello,
I have been reading posts in this forum for a while and just decided to register. I'm a sophomore in college and is probably going to enlist next year. I'm thinking about applying for USMA after getting enlisted.
Why would you enlist in junior year of college and then apply to USMA? Why not skip the enlistment and just apply to the Academy? I don't understand what you think you gain by enlisting first.
Welcome... my gut feel here is you are just starting your research.
If your goal is to serve as an Army officer, as a college sophomore, you have some options that don't involve enlisting, such as an officer candidate school after you get your degree. As noted by another poster, you can apply to USMA as a college applicant. You could shoot for the Class of 2022, and start on the process this year. If you have good grades in courses USMA likes to see, plus the other leadership and athletic activities, you could have a strong package.
If you haven't done this already, go to USMA Admissions pages, read every drop-down and link.
One of the eligibility factors to keep in mind is the "no older than X" upper age limit at the start of USMA.
If you are in college and doing well, don't walk away until you know all your options. If you are talking to an Army recruiter, recognize it is their job to sell you on enlisting. They have goals to meet.
If there is an AROTC unit at your campus, go visit with them and discuss officer career path options.
Browse these forums, but most of all, buckle down and research the primary references for USMA, Army Officer commissioning programs, etc.
Thank you.Understand the route better now, given your need to gain citizenship.
It's only relatively easy to get into a Service Academy since some administrative hurdles are cleared away for enlisted applicants. You will have to be an outstanding Soldier, and gain the support and recommendation of your chain of command. You will still have to demonstrate the ability to handle the rigorous academics and other requirements at USMA. Most enlisted applicants will attend MAPS for a year, the prep school. You may find yourself deployed to a hot spot without the resources or time to apply. You will have to keep an eye out on your timetable; you cannot be older than 23 reporting in to West Point.
You are making a good start in researching and comparing plans. Don't throw out the USAR - AROTC option too quickly. You would not lose any momentum in gaining your degree and commission.