<p>After reading many “how are my chances” and related topics, I have to ask. Are the majority of the people that get appointments that qualified? Maybe it’s just me but most of these people have 4.0 + GPA’s, 30+ ACT’s, are involved in more clubs than imaginable, are state champs in sports, and single handedly out volunteered the peace corps. I mean if these people are honestly worried about appointments and it’s actually that competitive then I really need to kick it up a notch.</p>
<p>lol, trust me, these people your lookin' at are one of two people:
1. They are in fact in the top of the candidates and are not the norm
2. Look a lot better than they really are.</p>
<p>Either case, most seem super people and you probably do too on your resume, but don't worry as long as grades/SAT/ACT are decent (60%!) and you have some other leadership be it sports, clubs, CAP, etc. (30%!)</p>
<p>It just looks that way because CC'ers are a very motivated bunch. Most of the appointees and cadets on this site are the ones that have wanted it the most and therefore have pursued it and have excellent stats. CC does not always represent all the different stats of appointees. As hornetguy said, if you keep your academics and extracurriculars good and stay above the average stats found in the academy catalog you'll be putting yourself in a good position to receive an appointment.</p>
<p>What the Academy likes to see, as well as any College/University is some sort of focus on your application. They like to see that you dedicate your time to certain things and not just participate in everything but nothing at the same time. Commitment is very important and should be treated as such.</p>
<p>My 2 cents.</p>
<p>-B</p>
<p>i already got an appointment to USAFA, and my ACT composite score is a 27. Everyone else is like in the 30+. I got a 31 Math and a 26 English. However, earlier this year, USAFA sent me a letter saying my science score was not competative enough (at that time, it was a 23). Took ACT again and increased my science to 27. I guess they really liked how I improved and granted me an appointment. Just a thought.</p>
<p>Anyhow, if you really want the academy, you'll find your way to it. Just keep truckin' and do your best. Also, try not to compare yourself to others, you should really just try your best. That's all there is to it.</p>
<p>Yah, you can't really get discouraged by the boards because most of the people on here are incredibly intelligent. Don't forget the rest of the kids out there that don't really put in as much effort as the kids on here do.</p>
<p>Pen,</p>
<p>You really have me worried now... I'm applying for SS and I only have a 27 ACT score and I have 25 on the science and reading. I'm thinkin' it's going to be a close one.</p>
<p>Hornetguy, by you actually putting up the "2. look a lot better then they are" it makes me wonder. How many of those kids you see at the academy? I mean is it that bad, or is it only a few that have the big HOLLOW shell? Iono I was just curious it just made me kinda of laugh too see how blatently you said it. :)</p>
<p>Well that is a big relief. I applied last night for the summer seminar but I doubt I'll get accepted with my PSAT scores. Hey, you never know and its definately worth a shot. I'm exactly at the level it says they should be to be competitive on the admissions site though, so we shall see.</p>
<p>Keep in mind most of those people only post to brag about how awesome they are or their kids are.</p>
<p>TN hit the nail on the head. Many come to do that.</p>
<p>Also, I see so many people come with "brilliant" resumes and I just watch in awe and they drown in the work and life here. I don't know honestly if they simply are padded in the resume, or if their school itself was not challenging (or they chose not to challenge themselves there). </p>
<p>One huge problem I see is writing. I proofread many papers, and let me tell you, very few have mature writing skills I was force fed in AP lang and AP lit in HS. Many people have to catch up or are shocked in the college (esp USAFA) environment. </p>
<p>DO NOT let yourself fall behind, it will hurt 10X more later.</p>
<p>P.S. I don't care how awesome you are on paper. Once you're here, NO ONE will care to hear your high school career or your stats. You gotta prove yourself here for respect. A nice consequence of doing well is getting first picks for summer programs and leadership positions. I pretty much know my summer schedule that way. So please, challenge yourself so you can benefit later.</p>