Necessary to network for nomination?

soccerchic

soccerchic

5-Year Member
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Dec 2, 2012
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I'm starting to fill out my nomination packets for USAFA. My parents keep saying that "knowing" someone with connections to my congressmen is important and will help me obtain a nomination. Are they correct? I like to have faith in the nomination system that politics and knowing the right people will be disregarded; thus, the most qualified candidates will be chosen. I've been to a service academy night for my senator. In my eyes, that is the right way to network and show dedication. Any thoughts on if "sucking up" connections really help or not? Thank you in advance!


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DS had no connections, no network, he was simply well prepared for his interview--he earned principal nomination from our MOC. Perhaps not all MOC are as fair and open in their selections, but ours was. If I had a dollar for every time someone told our son he needed connections to receive a nomination I'd be able to retire. Have a strong resume, do your homework on types of interview questions, have a solid plan "B" in place, apply for ALL nomination sources, and be yourself in the interview. Best of luck.
 
+1 to Blondie! The MOCS generally have committees of military personnel, etc who actually make the recommendations to the MOC on who should receive their nominations. Connections are not necessary at all. I think folks get the impression about needing connections from the way nominations were made prior to the Civil War.
 
Every state and every district in the country is different. How difficult it is to receive a nomination varies for each place. But as the others have said, who you know really isn't a factor. Not for the nomination. Matter of fact, is some places like Wyoming, even if you were the son, grandson, daughter, niece, etc... of the senator, it wouldn't matter. Unless you're totally disqualified or a loser, you WILL receive a nomination in Wyoming. Chances are, you're going to receive at least 2 nominations.

But remember, the nomination is just a small piece of the picture. An important piece obviously. You CAN'T get an appointment without a nomination. However; there is going to be approximately 5,000+ individuals with nominations. But only about 1,000 will receive appointments.
 
DD didn't network and it wasn't necessary. She interview with both Senators and her Rep. All 3 had committees that made the choice and passed their recommendations to the Congressman. From what I can tell, the majority do this so that there's no perception of impropriety or favoritism.
 
The nomination process is completely merit based and is usually done by a service academy selection board consisting of mostly ex-servicemen and servicemen. My DS was nominated by both the congressman as well as the senator, and we knew none of them (not even their names until the last minute).
 
I'm sure there are places where it's necessary or at least advantageous, but I think putting more effort into practicing their interviewing skills would be time better spent. Obvious attempts at sucking up could become a disadvantage.
 
Thanks everyone! This is what I was hoping to hear!


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Well before my DD applied to USAFA, we toured the Naval Academy and attended a meeting with a member of their admissions team. A question was asked something to the effect of, "Does it help to get a nomination if you/your family does volunteer/campaign work for your senators/congressman?". He replied, "It sure doesn't hurt".

And if you do volunteer work for one of them, and truly back their political views/are of the same political persuasion, I don't think this is "sucking up".
 
djms19 said:
Well before my DD applied to USAFA, we toured the Naval Academy and attended a meeting with a member of their admissions team. A question was asked something to the effect of, "Does it help to get a nomination if you/your family does volunteer/campaign work for your senators/congressman?". He replied, "It sure doesn't hurt".

And if you do volunteer work for one of them, and truly back their political views/are of the same political persuasion, I don't think this is "sucking up".
Click to expand...

That may be true, but not necessary. I know someone who was an intern with a Congressman and did not gain his nomination.

As stated previously by another poster, better to focus on your interview skills. DD received a principal nom and didn't know the Senator nor anyone on the board.
 
I agree with most responses so far. I didn't know anyone in the loop and got two nominations. Focus on your application's competitiveness instead :biggrin:
 
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