I suggest you find out when/if your MOC holds local/regional Academy Open House events. These are usually at the beginning of the school year and there will be a representative there from each academy to answer questions and give out informational materials. The MOC usually has a representative/assistant there to answer questions regarding the MOC's own nomination process.
This is a great opportunity to make a good impression. Don't ask questions that can be found on the MOC's webpage, but do ask a few questions to let rep. know you are very serious about an academy. Make sure you introduce yourself, shake their hand, use "sir" or "ma'am". Be pleasant, show some personality, but don't go overboard. Keep in mind that you'll be dealing mostly with MOC's staff and you'll probably never meet the MOC.
Dress for success: Ladies - dress, dress slacks or skirt, non-revealing top. Gentlemen - dress slacks, nice shirt (tie isn't necessary). No flip-flops, gum chewing, etc.
My daughter went to one of these as a junior (not realizing she was a year early), but the assistant remembered her when she went back as a senior. Of course, she didn't really need to go back as a senior, as she had all the information, but it was an opportunity to have "face time" and become more memorable to the MOC's staff.