Nomination Dilemma

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parentofhopeful

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Months ago, when DS filled out his MOC applications, he put down USMMA as his second choice. He has not and will not be applying there. Prior to his MOC interviews, he decided he only wanted USNA and if that didn't work out, he would pursue Plan B, Plan C etc. When he went to his second MOC interview, it was mentioned to him by a panel member, that he had USMMA as his second choice. DS told the panel member he no longer considered that academy. DS watched the person cross it off on the paper. Four days later, he received a phone message at home stating that he didn't receive his first choice USNA but was being nominated for his second choice, USMMA... he was also told to continue to pursue a nomination to his first choice. Tonight DS received an email from his third MOC interview stating he was nominated for USNA, his first choice!! So, now the dilemma....should he contact the MOC that nominated him for USMMA and let them know he has no intentions of taking the nomination? If he gives up his nomination, could someone else possibly benefit and receive his "spot"? He would love to help someone else out! Any advice would be appreciated!
 
At least your DS listed USMMA on his MOC application.

Years ago, when my oldest DD applied to USAFA, one of our Senators gave her a nomination to USNA, even though she did not list it as an option or even apply. We were definitely confused about that one.
 
Capri120 said:
At least your DS listed USMMA on his MOC application.

Years ago, when my oldest DD applied to USAFA, one of our Senators gave her a nomination to USNA, even though she did not list it as an option or even apply. We were definitely confused about that one.
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Our son's letter from his MOC indicated he got one to USMMA and he hadn't applied or requested it either. We found out it was a typo and the actual nomination was to USMA, which did show up on his portal.
 
Yes, your son should contact the MOC's office to tell that, while he greatly appreciates the nom to USMMA, he has not applied -- and will not be applying -- to that school. It's possible the MOC SA coordinator may ask why he put down USMMA as his first choice and why he didn't mention it during the interview (which he did). DS should politely explain that he originally (when filling out the form) intended to apply. That decisions changed and he did so inform the committee during his interview and apologizes for any confusion. I realize the confusion isn't on his end (nor is he admitting that it was) but a little humility goes a long way.:)
 
parentofhopeful said:
Would someone else benefit?
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As a practical matter, probably not. Most MOC use a competitive nomination process, nominating up to 10 candidates and leaving it up to the Admissions office to select whom among the 10 gets the appointment. If OP drops out of the pool, and MOC adds another, that person would by definition be the MOC 10th (or 11th choice), probably for a reason. The result would be a Candidate still in the running but really not competitive. Of course, Admissions could see something in the candidate that the MOC board did not, so there is some benefit but limited.
(This response assumes that USMA operates substantially the same as USNA regarding Noms and Appointments).

That being said, I agree with the comments that the candidate should notify both USMA and the MOC office that he does not intend to pursue the appointment to USMA. It gives the MOC the opportunity to make another nomination, and helps USMA Admissions to clear that candidate off the list. In addition, if the message is delivered properly, that MOC may be an ally if the OP has to reapply next year.
 
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