Understanding the fine print of a nomination

[nwdoty]

Hello everyone,

I have just received a letter in the mail to confirm that I have been nominated to West Point by my representative. Reading the fine print, it says that I must email to, "confirm [my] acceptance of the nomination and [my] intention to accept an appointment should be offered one." Does the second part of this statement mean that, in accepting the nomination, I must go to USMA if accepted like an ED at a civilian college?

I ask because when my father went through the process, he was able to pick after receiving all his acceptances from colleges. I'm trying to keep my options open for as long as possible given that COVID prevented me from visiting any school and am considering between ROTC and USMA.

Thanks!

 

[MullenLE]

Each nominating authority does their own "thing." The best thing to do is ask them.

" I am very grateful to receive the Congressman's nomination!!! Does the second part of this statement mean that, in accepting the nomination, I must go to USMA if accepted like an ED at a civilian college? To be honest, due to COVID19 this past year, I was prevented COVID prevented from visiting any school and I'm considering between ROTC and USMA. So, I just want to know up front."

They will understand and answer you honestly.

 

[justdoit19]

I’ve heard this kind of thing, in variations, before. It’s not uncommon. Whatever their reasoning for stating this, you cant be forced to attend. They cannot make you. A lot can change between now and reporting day. Imo, it would be wise to accept. Imo, keeping your options open is a good idea, including accepting and holding your nomination. If you dont accept it, and decide to attend should an offer be granted, and you don’t have a nom? Then that door is shut.

Generally a MOC wants to have their spot filled at the SA. So they want to nominate a slate of people who intend to go. But, should you decide not to attend, there are 9 others on that slate. So it’s kind of an odd thing to say, imo. I believe this to be more of an ethical, honesty thing, rather than legally binding one. And it makes sense to want to wait and see what all your options are before deciding.

I would advise my own to accept. Unless you are applying everywhere, just to apply and collect appointments. If you truly dont know at this point, which is normal, it’s acceptable to accept the nom.

Congrats!!