I was wondering how much a slight criminal record would affect my chances of getting accepted. I was just starting junior year when i was charged with misdemeanor Animal Neglect for being an “accomplice” while i was with a group of high school friends and one of them shot a rabbit with a bow and arrow. My friend and I were ordered to court and charged with Animal Neglect instead of felony Animal abuse because we admitted to the crime. My friend admitted he shot the rabbit and that i had nothing to do with the killing of the rabbit but I was deemed an accomplice because I admitted I also shot the bow and did not report my friends actions to the police.Before this I was never in trouble and was an overall good kid. It was a stupid mistake and I regret ever being a part of it but I made a dumb decision and took responsibility for my actions and in turn paid for it(literally and figuratively). I’ve wanted to attend the Naval Academy since 8th grade and I’ve been preparing for it since. I did so much to stay out of any kind of trouble trying to become the best candidate i could be but i screwed up bad and wanted other peoples insight on whether this will keep me from the Academy. I have a congressional nomination lined up and he does not not think it will affect me too much but i want other opinions as well. I’m physically fit, not great eyesight but manageable, 3.5 gpa, varsity football, good health and fill out the rest of the qualifications pretty good.
My dad has been reviewing naval academy apps for years (he’s an alumnus). I didn’t double check this with him or anything but my understanding is that it would be very rare for them to not trust the congressional nomination for something like that. It would probably end up being about GPA or whatever if you didn’t get in. Sorry you got in that situation, good luck! 