Would this ruin my chance?

yurrgang2021

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Aug 28, 2021
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Hey guys. I've decided I wanted to go to west point, but I'm a tad nervous in doing so. I've never really been good at math and so my averages go: Algebra 1 - 88, Geometry - 73, and Algebra 2 - somewhere in the 83-86 area, not quite sure. However, I do excell above average in english as I've been taking honors all of my years of highschool. Every other subject is either A or A+.

I know West Point takes math pretty seriously so do you think this would impact my chances? And if so, do you think I could compensate with a high ACT score?
 
I know West Point takes math pretty seriously so do you think this would impact my chances?
West Point takes math VERY seriously. Calculus is a core subject. You’ll also need to take other courses that are highly math centric. Perhaps your SAT/ACT will indicate someone with more innate math ability than your grades suggest. In any case, should you win offer of appointment, you’ll need to ramp up your efforts. Remember, USMA is essentially an engineering school, no matter your major. If they doubt your ability to handle the curriculum, you won’t be admitted.
 
West Point takes math VERY seriously. Calculus is a core subject. You’ll also need to take other courses that are highly math centric. Perhaps your SAT/ACT will indicate someone with more innate math ability than your grades suggest. In any case, should you win offer of appointment, you’ll need to ramp up your efforts. Remember, USMA is essentially an engineering school, no matter your major. If they doubt your ability to handle the curriculum, you won’t be admitted.
thank you so much for the advice :) i'm taking pre calc this year and i'm going to focus extra hard on showing improvement. i've always been horrible at math and geometry threw me for a LOOP sophomore year, despite my efforts for getting help so i can explain that in my adversity candidate statement and just hope it doesnt bring me down too much
 
thank you so much for the advice :) i'm taking pre calc this year and i'm going to focus extra hard on showing improvement. i've always been horrible at math and geometry threw me for a LOOP sophomore year, despite my efforts for getting help so i can explain that in my adversity candidate statement and just hope it doesnt bring me down too much
Make sure and have solid back up plans. Even for someone who checks every box, an appointment is highly competitive! In addition to academics, you need demonstrated leadership and fitness. You will need to secure a nomination. And be deemed medically qualified.

So you can see why solid back up plans are imperative.

Good luck!
 
MidCake is spot on - Math is important. Cadets with non-STEM majors must still take the same STEM Calculus, Statistics, and calculus based Physics courses as STEM majors. Additionally, there is a required 3 course engineering sequence for non-engineering majors.

Admissions will look closely to determine if you can handle the math requirements. Your grades will be viewed in context with the rigor of your curriculum. B grades are not bad in a strong curriculum. The 73 in Geometry will get some attention. Math test scores will be important.

To perform well in Pre-Calculus and to help with math test scores, I recommend doing extra work in both your current math course and previous math subject areas. Get any extra assistance from your math teacher that is available. Khan Academy is an excellent outside resource.
 
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