So, there are a myriad of opinions on this issue and mine is only one. So I'll provide some clarification that may help. If some folks still don't think this works for them, then don't follow it.
1. I am NOT a physician.
2. I am NOT a parent.
3. Without any subterfuge in the least, the first paragraph below is designed to be motivational for applicants and provide some Jersey Barriers around the issue of the WHO regarding an applicant's application.
4. At NOT time did I ever say parents should not be involved. The point is, when in direct communication with anyone involved in an applicant's application, the LEAD should be taken by the applicant.
5. Parents are specifically called out as having "...sage advice and counsel…in the background…say again, IN THE BACKGROUND. " AND " Your wisdom will be deeply appreciated by your son or daughter, but the “action” part of this exercise is best for all, when the applicant takes direct ownership of THEIR process, with Admissions, Congressional Nominations, DoDMERB, etc."
a. In other words, this IS a "FAMILY" endeavor and journey. NO dispute.
b. All that is being stated are the actions...not that "some" applicants don't have a requirement to drive to and/or attend the exams or to have parental authorizations for some things...clearly they do.
c. The issue being conveyed is that all communications with Admissions, Congressional Nominations, DoDMERB, etc., should emanate from ..."the applicant." Of course, most 17 and 18 year old applicants may not know their medical history. They complete their medical history on-line, in the comfort/security of their own home/apartment/shelter device. Parents certainly can participate, if that's what that family model is (as stated many times...there are different type applicants, and families.
d. Most young folks today, have never had the experience of an interview for anything. Parents counsel can prove invaluable input in this and many other areas. Practicing interview techniques; the physical set up, etc. BUT, as you all know, the interview, will ONLY be with the applicant.
e. But, the direct contacts...should be made by the applicant. All of us involved in this process and know it's a government process with all the inherent bureaucratic mile posts. Phone calls don't always work for the student, emails can be sent at anytime.
6. Thank you for this opportunity.
To assist in clarity, I've altered the colors below for emphasis.
APPLICANTS ONLY (If your parents read this part, you’ll know why I wrote it this wayJ) – This is YOUR future, YOUR application, and it needs to be YOUR decision. Parents are very useful in providing YOU sage advice and counsel…in the background…say again, IN THE BACKGROUND. YOU should take all actions regarding YOUR application. If YOU are offered an appointment to one/more Service Academy and/or are awarded a scholarship to an ROTC Program(s), guess what? Your parents do NOT get to attend with YOUJ While the Service Academies and ROTC programs have bunk beds---those are for your roommates, not your parents! Therefore, this process begins that transition of YOUR independence. Again, they can assist YOU, but YOU should be the lead on all application actions. They should be like the military guidon bearer --- YOU are the Commander and they should be one step to the right and one step behind YOU. They can discuss anything and everything with YOU, just not DODMERB. Go easy on them. This will NOT be an easy thing for them to do…to start to let goJ
PARENTS: While I’ve emphasized the above to a fault, I can only share with you my vast experience in this area. Your wisdom will be deeply appreciated by your son or daughter, but the “action” part of this exercise is best for all, when the applicant takes direct ownership of THEIR process, with Admissions, Congressional Nominations, DoDMERB, etc.J