Strong bases in math and science

A

alexlocnj

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Apr 2, 2018
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so I’ve noticed that in just about everything that has anything to do with naval academy admissions, it says that you must have a strong base in math and science. I was wondering what a strong base is considered. I have gotten all B’s in honors math courses. (My school is known for its challenging math program) and all A’s and one B+ in honors and AP science courses. Would this be considered a strong base, or will the B’s make my transcript look bad, thank, A.L.

PS, I also have Act math and science scores in The 30s
 
A strong base would entail AP Calculus, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, AP Computer Science — with an A in each course. That would be a strong base. That doesn’t mean that every plebe shows up having done that, but many do. And many scored 700+ on the math portion of the SAT, with quite a few scoring 800. Best thing you can do: Take the most challenging STEM courses your school has to offer and do very well in them. If your school has a limited selection of AP, don’t worry about it. USNA will know what those offerings are — they’ll have a school profile — and won’t penalize you for not taking what you can’t.

Now, does that ensure success once at USNA? Not necessarily. Calculus 1 and Chemistry 1 at USNA might seem familiar, but they’ll move faster and delve deeper than the AP versions. And they’ll come on top of military and athletics requirements. So it’s not unusual to see former high achievers in STEM flirting with a D or F. I know because my DD is one of them. Those classes are not called “plebe killers” for nothing.
 
One other thing: Apply to USNA’s STEM Summer Camp. You have until the summer before 11th grade to attend. It’ll expose you to the facilities, faculty and mids. It’s more fun than work, but a great experience nonetheless. And no, it will not help you land an offer of appointment!
 
MidCakePa said:
A strong base would entail AP Calculus, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, AP Computer Science — with an A in each course. That would be a strong base. That doesn’t mean that every plebe shows up having done that, but many do. And many scored 700+ on the math portion of the SAT, with quite a few scoring 800. Best thing you can do: Take the most challenging STEM courses your school has to offer and do very well in them. If your school has a limited selection of AP, don’t worry about it. USNA will know what those offerings are — they’ll have a school profile — and won’t penalize you for not taking what you can’t.

Now, does that ensure success once at USNA? Not necessarily. Calculus 1 and Chemistry 1 at USNA might seem familiar, but they’ll move faster and delve deeper than the AP versions. And they’ll come on top of military and athletics requirements. So it’s not unusual to see former high achievers in STEM flirting with a D or F. I know because my DD is one of them. Those classes are not called “plebe killers” for nothing.
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Next year I am taking either AP AB or Honors Calculus (depending how I finish my Pre-Calc Honors course), AP Comp Science AP Psychology and AP Spanish. I am also taking Honors Physics. Is this a senior year course load that would be appealing to admissions?
 
I would substitute a writing course (history, English) for psych. While psych is probably interesting, it's not very helpful from a college admissions standpoint. And having a strong base in critical thinking and writing is useful in life.
 
+1 to @usna1985 regarding AP English. Don’t skip the core courses — math, science, English, history, government — especially if AP options are offered. Again, all SAs want to see you take the most challenging courses your school has to offer.
 
MidCakePa said:
+1 to @usna1985 regarding AP English. Don’t skip the core courses — math, science, English, history, government — especially if AP options are offered. Again, all SAs want to see you take the most challenging courses your school has to offer.
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I have taken AP US History and am taking AP World next semester. So would a course like AP English Language and Composition be good? It is the only AP English offered for Seniors.
 
@alexlocnj, let’s make sure you’re internalizing the above message. Is AP English the most challenging English course your school offers? Yes? Then you should take it. Challenge yourself. Because at USNA, you will be challenged...and then some.
 
MidCakePa said:
@alexlocnj, let’s make sure you’re internalizing the above message. Is AP English the most challenging English course your school offers? Yes? Then you should take it. Challenge yourself. Because at USNA, you will be challenged...and then some.
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Ok, this leads me to another question. These are all courses I am planning on taking 7th semester. I saw that the application requirements say at least first 6 semesters. Does this mean that I cannot send my 7th semester reports, or am I able to send it to them so long as I get it there by the deadline.
 
alexlocnj said:
MidCakePa said:
@alexlocnj, let’s make sure you’re internalizing the above message. Is AP English the most challenging English course your school offers? Yes? Then you should take it. Challenge yourself. Because at USNA, you will be challenged...and then some.
Click to expand...
Ok, this leads me to another question. These are all courses I am planning on taking 7th semester. I saw that the application requirements say at least first 6 semesters. Does this mean that I cannot send my 7th semester reports, or am I able to send it to them so long as I get it there by the deadline.
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Candidates will also include a list of the courses they will be taking their senior year with their application package. SAs may also request updated 7th semester transcripts as part of the process.
 
Building on @FMHS-79, if you’re not a “slam dunk” accept, but otherwise promising, USNA may want to add your 7th semester grades to their decision inputs. So not only should you take the AP courses, you should excel in them.
 
I have A's in AP calculus and AP Chem as a junior, plus A's in AP English/US history/ World history/Biology. I have an A so far in AP Physics. I was going to forward my new transcript in December as soon as my grades are in. I believe I am 3Q, but no nom yet although I have finished my interviews. What is procedure for sending in 7th quarter grades as it is not addressed in portal. My sister is at USNA and called me for calculus help...can I add that to my resume? Just joking about the last part (not about her asking for help...she did) but serious about the first question!
 
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