<p>Would it be a bad idea to write about an illness I overcame, even though it no longer affects me at all (appendix burst, was pretty serious)?</p>
<p>Also, would it disqualify me on the DoDMERB?
Appendix burst, surgery, small scar, was 5 years ago, I'm completely recovered.</p>
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<p>Has a great DoDMERB forum with a couple of experts who can help you with that part of your question.</p>
<p>It most likely won't disqualify you.<br>
I think they give you the topic though. At least they did two years ago. You can't just write about anything you want.</p>
<p>Yes, it fits in with the topic. I think its the same topic every year (correct me if I'm wrong.)</p>
<p>Is this for your personal statement? Not sure if the topic or question shifts a bit year to year. Only see the single year that candidate applies. Overcoming a serious illness could be a good topic. Shows character and drive to succeed depending on circumstances. You know yourself and the exact events you wish to describe.</p>
<p>Regarding DODMERB only they know but I would suggest getting your ducks in a row and be prepared to have answers if they have questions. This would include medical records of that time and a current full physical from your doctor that declares you 100% fit and recovered from that event. </p>
<p>DODMERB is the wild card in the application process. You want to get your forms filled out and schedule the required exam ASAP. This can be done over summer. If DODMERB finds anything wrong and deems you unqaulified you can spend months sending medical records and communications back and forth to them. Lastly do not lie on your DODMERB forms. If you deliberatly lie and get caught at the medical at I-Day, you have commited an honors violation and will quite likly be kicked out before you start.</p>
<p>Re: DoDMERB - MIDNDAD is correct.
You may or may not be dq'd - but I would be willing to bet that before they make that determination they give you a "remedial" where they ask for more information (medical records) before they decide. So, do be prepared for some extra work. There may also be some other issues that you would not normally think about like if you ever had a concussion or if you have alleriges.
I <em>think</em> you need to have over half your application done before USNA sends your name to DoDMERB - so it is to your benefit to complete the application quickly so you can get started on the physical. It can sometimes take months and months to clear up a disqualification - so pay attention to detail and provide everything they ask for in a timely basis.</p>
<p>Thanks everyone... one more question. Is it going to hurt me if I don't have my recommendations until early fall? Everyone is telling me to get my app done ASAP, but I can't rush my teachers, especially my english teacher, who is writing a recommendation for everyone.</p>
<p>No it won't hurt you at all. Early fall is fine. Just make sure you follow up. You will supply the email address and the teacher will send the recommendation back via email to the academy. Be nice about it but check to see if - the email arrived and then if it was sent back.</p>
<p>Ok, I'm pretty friendly with my teachers so emailing them before/after shouldn't be too awkward, haha.</p>