TURNED DOWN

I have posted this before. I hope that it will be helpful for those that may not have had a chance to read it.
I'd like to share some thoughts I had with candidates and appointees. I think it's appropriate as we are winding down on the selection process.

One of the greatest gifts a child could give a parent is to be a better person then we are. You are brighter, faster, and stronger then we are. You are morally better, with a greater sence of compassion and empathy then we possess. Every time we witness you accomplish life challenges better then we can, our level of pride for you is unequalled. You have already done this, appointed or not.

I was speaking to my Daughter last night about her plans if she did not get an appointment to the Naval Academy and she taught me a lesson when she said, "I want nothing more right now then to attend the Naval Academy, but I would hope that 4 years spent at a University would not define who I am for the rest of my life. I would like to think I have more to offer".

Like I said Parents. They are smarter then we are and you should all be very proud. Now if we could only get them to clean their room! It's a disaster!
 
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!
 
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!

Whether you get in or not, you have definitely grown as a person and for the good. My thoughts are with you and that you get the spot you have worked so hard for.
 
Just got TWE last night as well, disappointed but a freshman year at Texas A&M can't do anything but help. Looking forward to being a plebe next year.
You won't regret that freshman year at A&M in my opinion. My son is there now in the Corps of Cadets and NROTC. He just got his appointment. He truly believes that he is much more prepared for the academy now and he also got to experience "regular" college life a bit. He also asked his NROTC instructor for a nomination and thinks that the written recommendation from that really helped his application. Good luck!
 
I agree Anne99, my now Mid felt that first year of college actually helped with plebe year. Time management skills were sharpened, as were the pangs of living away from home. Best of luck to all reapplying.
 
I am also spending a year at TAMU and in the national guard. Next time I don't be making so many mistakes!
 
I am so sorry @bluediamond -- it has been a long run. I cannot remember your son's other great opportunity--but I know it will be great.
 
DS just got Turned down. Seemed like that was going to be the most likely outcome this late in the game. So very grateful he has had the plan B, and C's offered as well as first choice USMA.
USNA was a close second, and his attending NASS, CVW, and visits, he really liked it and would have been honored to attend, but felt Army was a better fit overall, so it's bittersweet.
Best of luck to those still CPR and for those getting the bad news, best wishes for your plan B!!

Go Army, Beat Navy!
 
I hate to ask...was it an email, on the portal, or both at the same time? With #3 en route to Milan, this is going to be a very long two weeks.
 
Alrighty then! We just got ours too! So who wants to buy a CRAP LOAD of USNA gear? I know, I know, I'm funny but seriously my DD has a Masters degree in shopping and we have everything... private message me if you're interested.

Also who needs I Day and PPW reservations? I've got multiple. Message me today if interested.
 
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