During interview with FFR, DS was asked if a direct appointment doesn’t work out would he be interested in USMAPS? DS is in his freshman year of college on a 4 year ROTC scholarship and currently has 2 nominations. Is it common for FFR to pose this type of question? DS asked FFR if he could reflect on the question and get back to him, this would add another year to the mix. We understand USMAPS can’t be applied for, despite the extra year what are pros and cons?
USMAPS
- Thread starter mjdgmom
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My older son went to USMAPS and honestly, it was wonderful for him. It's like taking a gap year. He had gaps in knowledge in Math and the prep school allowed him to catch up before getting to the academy. I actually WANT my younger son to go to the prep school first. If he had a choice to go straight in or go to the prep school I would encourage prep. There are some kids that have no problem going straight in, but my kids grew up in Germany and have to not only adapt to "college life," but also to adapt to living back in the U.S.
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If your DS is offered Prep, he should jump on it. Prep school is not easy. It is a Grounding year -- Rigor and Detail.
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One thing to consider: if he stayed the course in ROTC, he would be done in two years (after the USMAPS year). Verses 4 more after USMAPS if he chooses USMA. How does he feel about adding an extra two years of school, giving up two years of pay...two years towards promotions?
Something to consider given both paths lead to the same officer outcome.
Something to consider given both paths lead to the same officer outcome.
Old Navy BGO
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> It's is one of the points that BGO's (Navy FFR) are supposed to cover on the interview.
> The answer for OP son is difficult. I am a big fan of the Prep Schools; its a great program for those coming out of HS. That said, OP son would be halfway to his Commission going through ROTC, and if he likes the program he is in (School, ROTC, major), I'd have a hard time recommending that he step back to square one unless he truly has his heart set on West Point. I also think it would be difficult for the FFR to hold it against him if he responded that his goal is to be an Army Officer, and he would be two years closer to reaching that goal staying the course he is on. This would also be a great opportunity to turn the question back to the FFR , ie.. what would you do or recommend if you were in this position....?.