My first year applying, I knew I was going to be turned down. My CFA sucked, my ACT was around a 23 (not competitive), etc. The only thing going for me was team captain and 3.9 unweighted GPA. But I was still down for a few days afterwards.
I then studied ACT like a madman, increased my english score by 9 points, and my math by 4 points. I earned my Eagle Scout, became an Assistant Wrestling Coach for High School, and an Assistant Scoutmaster. Maxed out almost all of my CFA. I signed up for difficult courses (college chemistry) got an A in all of my 34 credit hours (presidents list), joined the honors program, and other achievements. This year I was Wait Listed (I think ACT is holding me back)!
I believe that determination and drive is a HUGE factor. You can apply until you are 22 years old. If you really want to attend USNA, a year or two at a civilian college isn't that bad. I have grown so much since high school (everyone does in their first year of college).
If you do reapply, think: what was my application lacking (my first application was lacking almost everything
) and go try to improve your application; make the admissions board hate to not appoint you!
I made two promises to myself after my first turn down. 1) I was going to reapply until I aged out and my MOC is tired of seeing me. My second promise to myself was during the dreaded CPR time this year, I was stressing and checking my portal every couple hours: I decided to take my worries and doubts about my application and do something about it. I told myself that I was going to the Naval Academy this summer, whether I was accepted or if I took a trip for a tour and talk with an admissions officer about what I need to improve on.
Take a week off to chill and think.
From here, we can only improve, and eventually we will get in!