Well Spud, I'm afraid my decision (and anyone else's in my shoes) is a bit more complicated than my "wimpiness." Everyone knows it's a tough transition from civilian college to a service academy; that is my point. I am by no means anything you said here. I re-applied while still experiencing a normal college experience because regardless of what was going on around me, I still thought about and obsessed over USNA. Although I appreciate the "bad cop" tactic, which I hope it is, I am by no means weak nor a wimp. This is purely to make sure if and when I go, then I stay and thrive there. I do not want to go in wishy-washy and just leave, then being the wimp that you stated. USNA is not for everyone, you know this. I am motivated by much more than nothing. That's what got me to this position in the first place.
All points people have brought up are great, and I thoroughly appreciate the time you have all taken to drop wisdom on me. I've realized I'm afraid of the unknown, and sure maybe you're right, maybe my girlfriend does have something to do with it, but you bring up an awesome point that if its true love, then it will still work out.
I realize that the experiences and opportunities that USNA can offer me can be found no where else, let alone a civilian college. This thread has strengthened my thoughts to go. I need to wrap my head around everything completely and make sure I'm 100% in this when I do go on I-Day. Like I said before, if I'm "iffy" going in, well that's not going to work out. Your posts all truly help.
Thanks again for the knowledge and wisdom, it's much appreciated. Except for Spud. Well maybe him/her also helped...
RedBull,
I applaud you for laying it all out there and soliciting advice on whether this is the right decision for you. In my day, candidates like you (myself included) with similar reservations, fears, doubts, etc. didn't have the benefit of the wide net that this forum casts, so the pool of advice was much smaller. Ironically, in some ways, that may have been a good thing. Advice is great, but as it relates to a decision like this, it can sometimes muddy the waters, create further doubts, and add even more confusion than was already there. That said, I would echo what several have wisely counseled, that is to weigh some of the points that others offer for consideration, but it is ultimately your decision. Take solice in knowing that many, maybe hundreds of your potential classmates are having the very same doubts and concerns. The process is far from perfect, and it sometimes ends up not being a great fit for some who are offered an appointment. But dealing with the very challenges you are concerned about is part of the experience, moreso for some than others. Successfully doing so results in growth, and to some extent "growing up." This is true at an SA or any other first "out of the nest" experience. None who dispense advice know you or your situation better than you do (including Spud, who IMO was over the top in his post, one I would actually dismiss), so again you will make the call. But know that you are not alone.
Best of luck,
USNA 85
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