<p>The decision to accept an offer of appointment should not be taken lightly but if after the acceptance of offer of appointment is sent in there is a change in your decision to attend the Naval Academy what are the ramifications; i.e. are you obligated in any way?</p>
<p>No. In fact, you can stay until the first day of 3rd class year without incurring any obligations (I think). It may even by the first day of 2nd class, but I'm not sure.</p>
<p>However, if you decide not to go, please let admissions know ASAP so the appointment can be given to someone else.</p>
<p>It's the first day of your 2nd class year. You will sign 2 for 7 papers(I think that's what they call 'em) that obligate you to serve 5 years active if you continue to attend for your final 2 years.</p>
<p>Just a general comment -- some doubt is natural. I think most soon-to-be plebes, plebes, and even upperclass at some point experience moments of doubt about USNA, the military, etc. </p>
<p>However, if you are having serious doubts, NOW is the time to do some deep thinking. The #1 reason most plebes leave USNA is that they made the wrong decision about coming. They thought it was more like ROTC. They thought it was college w/a little military thrown in. They thought they would have more free time. Etc., etc. </p>
<p>Attending USNA is like getting married. There is this build-up among friends and relatives and others that tends to make people swallow/ignore their doubts and concerns ("everything is already planned"; "my parents are so excited"; "I've already told everyone -- how embarrassing to back out now").</p>
<p>However, just as it it is much better to realize before the wedding that it may not work -- much easier than going through a divorce after the fact -- it is better not to attend USNA if you are seriously concerned. Don't take the attitude -- "well, I might end up liking it." </p>
<p>The real issue is that, by attending and then quitting, you take the place of someone who likely would have made it through. I realize some poeple attend 100% certain and then change their minds. But do think about whether you're doing this for yourself, whether it is what YOU truly want. If not, it is MUCH better to use your Plan B.</p>
<p>[BTW, this is not targeted at the original poster; just a general message for all of you out there making these decisions.]</p>
<p>USNA1985 Copied, Pasted, and Emailed to son who is making his decisions soon...</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>1985 ... wonderfully, carefully, heartfully said. Reading from a distance, in several ways, it seems you've really nailed this one. </p>
<p>While it does not aid anyone's personal decision-making, the collective good news would appear to be there are very few of those who determine to attend and do so ... for the wrong reasons ... or at least reasons that prevent their completing what they start. As The Princeton Review might note of USNA candidate appointees, "There's lots of pre-qualifying among applicants." Let's hope so.</p>
<p>Good luck to all making this important decision, and thanks for this gem, '85.</p>
<p>You change your mind, you change your mind; there are plenty o fothers who do the same. Do whats right for YOU!</p>