<p>Hey everybody,
I've been checkin out this site for a while, just joined but thanks to everyone for posting and answering other peoples' questions because that really helped me finish up my application to USNA. I've got a couple of questions that I was hoping someone might be able to answer:
First, in some Naval Aviation forums I've seen some references to DH. What exactly is that?
Secondly, I've been thinking about possible majors at USNA if I am accepted (currently 3 Q'd, nom in hand, waiting on admissions). My goal has been to fly Navy since I can remember; since everyone graduates with a BS, would it be fair to assume that every major at the Academy will sufficiently prepare someone for Naval Aviation?
Thanks for any help you might be able to provide.</p>
<p>DH = Dear Husband</p>
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My goal has been to fly Navy since I can remember; since everyone graduates with a BS, would it be fair to assume that every major at the Academy will sufficiently prepare someone for Naval Aviation?
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<p>You can become a Naval Aviator with any major. If you have dreams of someday becoming an astronaut, you should get an engineering major. But, as they beat into your head all plebe year, you do not need to go aero engineering to fly. </p>
<p>The above said, the Navy increasingly wants officers with technical majors (engineering, science, math) and strongly encourages mids to pursue those majors.</p>
<p>I remember pretty distinctly when we went to a meeting with local Blue and Gold Officers about a year and a half ago, that it was stated that the Naval Academy encourages the midshipmen to pursue a degree that interests him or her the most and to not make a selection of major because he or she thinks it will help them become more competitive in their service selection. However, I'm sure that knowledge and performance in any program will play in to slotting in to service selection and every Mid needs to complete their degree program to the absolute best ability. But the message was that based simply that someone was a chemistry major and someone was an engineering....on that basis alone doesn't mean one would be selected for Naval Aviation.</p>
<p>I'm sure there are graduates who are far more qualified to comment on if what was stated at this meeting actually plays out in real life.</p>
<p>I've heard the same advice from BGO's and officers. You should pick a major that interests you. That way you won't be struggling with classes as much as you would be if you were in a major that did not interest you. Your GPA would probably be higher and that'll give you better chances of getting your first choice service selection.</p>
<p>As far as the academy preparing you enough for flight school down at Pensacola, I think that any major will do. Granted, I'm not speaking from experience, but I read a book on naval aviation and the journey through flight school and they teach you all of the math/science/engineering things that you need to know while you're there. Having a technical background, I'm sure would help- but I think that the academy gives you enough to do just fine. But please correct me if I am wrong.</p>
<p>ever heard of poli sci and fly?</p>
<p>Haha yeah I have heard of Poli Sci to fly, doesn't sound like a bad option. BulletandPima, thanks for your response, but the DH I was referring to has something to do with Naval Aviation, although I'm not sure what. Anybody have any idea?</p>
<p>A technical major cannot hurt and will possibly help. First off, knowing as much as possible about the aircraft and it's systems makes one a more effective pilot, both in the aircraft, and working in conjunction with the maintainers to fix 'gripes' is probably enhanced.</p>
<p>One should be planning at all times in the back of their mind for a subspecialty. In the aviation community, procurement at NavAir is a very viable one. Working with both Navy engineers and civilian contractors, it is always nice to have a technical background.</p>
<p>NASA has been mentioned. One does not get into NASA as a pilot without going through TPS. The vast majority of TPS students have technical degrees. And the test pilot career path, in itself, is exciting and rewarding.</p>
<p>No, it is not necessary, but it will limit your possibilities and may hinder your growth.</p>