A few application questions

Colleges and Universities A-Z Naval Academy - Annapolis
1

<p>I'll be a senior in HS this fall. I am strongly considering USNA... and I have a few questions.</p>

<p>First off, here's my brief profile:
-Female, Asian
-3.94 cum. gpa
-4.60 wgpa
-Took the top classes in my school (public), including AP Language, AP BC Calc, and AP World History in my junior year, received 4's on all exams. This year, my academic classes include AP Literature, AP Physics, AP Env Science, Multi Var/Diff Eq, and Gen. Psych. at my local community college.
-Experienced pianist, about 10 years of lessons (w/various competitions)
-Experienced dancer and competitor (but had to quit in jr. year for academics)
-Active drama member
-Swim team in junior year
-SAT Reading: 630, Math: 690
-ACT Reading: 28, Math: 30
-NHS co-pres
-160 service hours</p>

<p>So I am thinking that I have a good chance at getting in? I am lacking in the sports department and will definetely have to get in tip top shape. By the way, I am exactly 60 inches (5 feet).... I know this is the minimum... but are they REALLY strict on height stuff??</p>

<p>So here are the questions:
1) Is the nomination system really as brutal and selective as I think it is? (I live in MD) Can you get nominated more than once?</p>

<p>2) Upon completion of USNA, will I automatically be an officer?</p>

<p>3) What about the current war in the Middle East.... could they "send" me there? (Very vague question, I know...)</p>

<p>4) Is there a "target" application deadline?</p>

<p>5) What's the deal with LASIK surgery being a disqualifier? My eyesight is horrible, minus 8.00 in both eyes. I wear contacts, but when I don't, I'm as blind as a bat.</p>

<p>6) Are there any opportunities for piano players at USNA? Or a dance team (not cheerleading)?</p>

<p>Any other suggestions or comments would be appreciated. Thank you! :)</p>

2

<p>
[quote]
1) Is the nomination system really as brutal and selective as I think it is? (I live in MD) Can you get nominated more than once?

[/quote]

Yes, and yes. Being from Maryland, it's particularly tough. Regardless, you should apply for every nomination you are eligible for. Sometimes people get more than one nomination, but that's rare, and also unnecessary. You only NEED one.</p>

<p>
[quote]
2) Upon completion of USNA, will I automatically be an officer?

[/quote]

Correct.</p>

<p>
[quote]
3) What about the current war in the Middle East.... could they "send" me there? (Very vague question, I know...)

[/quote]

Not while you're a Midshipman. However, if the thought of going to war gives you the willies, might I suggest the University of Maryland?</p>

<p>
[quote]
4) Is there a "target" application deadline?

[/quote]

Yes, but I don't know what it is.</p>

<p>
[quote]
5) What's the deal with LASIK surgery being a disqualifier? My eyesight is horrible, minus 8.00 in both eyes. I wear contacts, but when I don't, I'm as blind as a bat.

[/quote]

That may be a problem. LASIK will immediately disqualify you. PRK is offered to Mids, but I don't know the details. Go to USNA's website and look up the eyesight restrictions.</p>

<p>
[quote]
6) Are there any opportunities for piano players at USNA? Or a dance team (not cheerleading)?

[/quote]

Never once saw a Mid dance at USNA, even in the plays (not formally, at least). As for piano, there may be a club or something, but I don't remember a piano anywhere on the Yard, but that was a long time ago. I think there is one topside in Dahlgren Hall. Don't know the deal on playing it, though.</p>

<p>Add some sports and clubs.</p>

3

<p>Thanks. I forgot to add that I'm part of a service club and a few other smaller ones. Sports - I'm doing swim team or track during winter, and outdoor track during the spring. Another other advice from anyone? Do you think that my academics will help to "cover" my few amount of sports??</p>

4

<p>^^^^
first, congratulations on your academics- great job! Keep it up!</p>

<p>Joining track is a terrific idea....it's not how many sports you do, but that you do them...and do your best to do well! Is it possible to add a fall sport? If not, would you consider starting your "running" now so that you can post some good times come track season? </p>

<p>That would be my 2 cents worth! </p>

<p>Other than crew....at 60 inches, you are the ideal size for a cox....(if you are under 125 lbs, it only gets better!!!) If your school has a team, definately consider joining it....or a local rowing club (there are many of them in Maryland)....as a cox you can kill 2 birds with one stone, as not only do you "train" with the team (abet, you most likely will not row in competetion)...but being a coxwain definately is another opportunity to shine in the leadership department!! Considering the size of the USNA rowing team, no doubt there will be lots of opportunities for an experienced coxwain!!! Just something else to consider!</p>

<p>Keep up the great work with the academics- and make your "athletics" shine just as brightly!</p>

5

<p>Some good Q&A here.</p>