Prepping as a freshman

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bndmtl

5-Year Member
Joined
Jun 28, 2013
Messages
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I am seriously considering the USCGA and I am going into 9th grade in High School. I was wondering what are some things I can do to prepare. I am also considering USNA and really haven't made up my mind completely.
What are some exercises I should do?
Habits I should stop and start doing?
And other tips.

Thank You
 
I am by no means an expert, but great that you are thinking about this early enough to get some things going. My son didnt get serious about it until early in his Junior year. (He is a senior now and the USCGA, USNA or USMMA is his goal). Some things I can think of:

-take the ACT at the end of you Sophomore year to get a baseline. Take it often to improve your scores. Concentrate on Math and English

-take AP, IB or Honors courses where ever and whenever they are offered

-get involved in leadership positions in clubs and athletics, and student government.

-play at least one varsity sport and try to become a team captain.

-get involved in community service through clubs or church, etc

-get or stay physically fit and within weight ranges.

-Apply for AIM, NASS or whatever Summer programs the academies offer in the later winter of your Junior year. (January/February)

-stay tuned to these forums....they are a wealth of information.

-have a back up plan and be ready to execute it should things not go according to plan. There are many ways to get a commission. Don't focus on just the academy way. Explore ROTC options and the ROTC scholarship programs


Best of luck to you!
 
Everything Grevar said. Grab as many leadership positions, extracurriculars, and sports as you can while maintaining your GPA.

You have a unique opportunity here because you are thinking ahead. Most people (myself included) don't even think about this stuff until we're juniors and its too late! Now all you have to do is not be lazy and work hard!
 
USNA

I really am thinking ahead because my "big brother" (who left for USNA the other day) really pushed me to do my best and told me all about all of the Academies. I really am blessed to have known him through 4H and I am lucky to have had him take me under his wing and guide me to where I am now, trying to get a headstart on USCGA.
 
Just make sure you are doing it because it is what YOU want to do. If not, they will see right through that.

Make sure you explore ALL of the ways to a commission. Remember, it has to be the reason you want to serve as opposed to attending an academy. I know a few who had no other options and they didnt make the academy. Likely because it was seen they wanted ALL or NOTHING. IMO, that is the wrong attitude to have and they will see that when you start your interviews, etc.

You are in a unique position in that you have plenty of time for soul searching, and planning. I cant say it enough...Explore ALL your options!
 
USCGA

Really, the USCGA is what I want to do and I want to serve my country, he just really told me about them and told me how to get to them and he pushed me to do my best on the 4H Rifle team, and if at all possible, I would like to shoot rifle while (hopefully) at the Academy.
 
And I am also looking at USNA (where he is now) and I am looking at other colleges.
 
Everything Grevar said is true. If it's what you really want to do, there are many ways to get to Officer rank in the Coast Guard whether by Academy, CSPI, or OCS. Best of luck on your journey! I didn't even know CGA existed until my junior year of high school, and I haven't looked back. Do the best you can in high school, and it will all work out :thumb:
 
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