Questions Thread

Academy Nomination

I recently received a nomination to West Point from my representative, so is it likely that I will get an appointment as well? Thanks!

-Leah Smith
 
I recently received a nomination to West Point from my representative, so is it likely that I will get an appointment as well? Thanks!

-Leah Smith

Depends on whether or not you also received an LOA from West Point (Letter of Assurance). If you did, you can expect an appointment offer soon. If you did not, your competitiveness will determine whether or not you'll receive an appointment and how soon you can expect it.

EDIT: All depends on whether or not you were the representative's principal nomination. If you were, and are fully qualified, you should receive an appointment.
 
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I actually have a question myself now.

When can appointed candidates expect the "boot letter" or other important information about preparing for R-Day and Beast? I'm just really anticipating something in the mail or on the portal with further information but I haven't received anything. Thanks.
 
I am also waitng for the boot letter so that I can drive up to West Point and buy my boots and break them in ASAP
 
I am also waitng for the boot letter so that I can drive up to West Point and buy my boots and break them in ASAP

I dont think West Point knows exactly what they want to do with boots for the class of 2015. The tactical officers are debating wether or not to switch over to a tennis-shoe style boot that wouldn't need to be broken in as much, and therefore could just be issued on R-Day.
 
Last Date to Update Candidate File

Does anyone know when the last date you can update a candidate files is? My DS re-took the SAT test yesterday to boost his scores to make him more competitive. The results will be in December 21st and he will forward them the same day. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
 
I dont think West Point knows exactly what they want to do with boots for the class of 2015. The tactical officers are debating wether or not to switch over to a tennis-shoe style boot that wouldn't need to be broken in as much, and therefore could just be issued on R-Day.

I've been told by people that getting boots and low quarters ahead of time were to break in your feet as much as it was about breaking in the actual shoes.

That'd be interesting if they decide to switch over to the tennis-shoe style boot you describe, because I bought boots and low quarters when I went up for an overnight visit in November. The people at the PX didnt ask for a boot letter or anything, they just fitted me and sent me on my way.
 
For low quarters, you get the non-shiny ones, not the chlorafram (sp?) ones that look like they have plastic on the outside of them.

For boots, the Belleville 390 DES was said to be an authorized boot by the plebe touring me and the folks at the PX. It was also the boot a lot of people got when the boot letter for Class of 2014 came out. So i stuck with the 390 DES.
 
Does anyone know when the last date you can update a candidate files is? My DS re-took the SAT test yesterday to boost his scores to make him more competitive. The results will be in December 21st and he will forward them the same day. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Candidates can update their files until admissions quits meeting to decide on appointments - April I think. Along with test scores any new awards or varsity letters should be reported as soon as your son knows about them.
 
They'll issue you one. If you decide to bring one yourself, you won't be able to get on the DoD network is my understanding
 
What are the nuances between the different boots and low quarters?

The major difference between the Belville boots series is the climate for which the boot is designed and the materials makeup. The materials are important because only some boots pass the flame retardancy standards for use flight crew duties.

For low quarters, they very slightly by manufacturer but anything you buy should be DSCP approved.
 
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I'm looking into getting a new sports watch since I have lost my old one. Are there certain regulations (i.e color, etc) that it has to meet to be able to wear it at the Academy?

My second question is would we be able to wear it during Beast or is it taken away for the summer?

Thanks in advance
 
For low quarters, you get the non-shiny ones, not the chlorafram (sp?) ones that look like they have plastic on the outside of them.

For boots, the Belleville 390 DES was said to be an authorized boot by the plebe touring me and the folks at the PX. It was also the boot a lot of people got when the boot letter for Class of 2014 came out. So i stuck with the 390 DES.

Wait, wait. I asked Ms. Rush if I can come to West Point to buy my footwear, and she said no. I don't understand.
 
Wait, wait. I asked Ms. Rush if I can come to West Point to buy my footwear, and she said no. I don't understand.

I went to the PX and they let me buy them. They haven't issued the boot letter yet so technically I guess you are not allowed to. However, I live in an area where the closest military base is a little over 3.5 hours away and I am not going back to West Point until R-Day so I explained my situation to the ladies at the PX and they said it was fine if I purchased the boots and low quarters then.

As far as the watch question goes, I think that as long as you get a good durable sportswatch that is black or grey (think subtle) you will be ok for beast. And you are allowed to have a watch during Beast.
 
My second question is would we be able to wear it during Beast or is it taken away for the summer?

Definitely buy a watch. There will be times when your squad leader says, "Be out on my wall at such-and-such time." If you don't have a watch, you will always have to be bugging other people for the time...which may not always be possible if you're outside and locked up.
 
Do not buy any boots until you get the letter. The models authorized are not the same every year. Plus, it will authorize you to buy them at the discounted Army price:smile:.
 
Question - Candidate Portal Update

How often USMA updates the candidate portal? weekly or daily?
 
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