Female going to the Naval Academy after junior year of college

<p>I'm curious to know if there are any women out there who have decided to attend the Naval Academy(or any military academy for that matter) after completing a few years of college? I have wanted to go to the USNA ever since I can remember (my father had went there) and I never took up the opportunity to apply in high school, partially due to a serious relationship and partially because I didn't know if it was for me. It has been on my mind frequently and I fully regret not going when I had the chance. For the women (and men) who have gone to a military academy, did you find it challenging to make friends? Right now, my only biggest fear about attending the academy is that my age will affect my ability to make friends, considering most people in my class would be much younger than me (I'd be 21 when attending). Any help is much appreciated! :) </p>

<p>Hi!
I am currently 18, female, a freshman in university, and I am waiting for my invitation to NAPS. I applied my senior year of highschool = denied. Summer before going to college = denied. (so, I will be 20 when I enter the Naval Academy). The thought of being 20 among my 18y/o acquaintances used to make me feel embarrassed, ashamed, and stupid.<br>
But, I am primarily going to the academy to master a body of knowledge and to be the best leader in the world - that is all I can dream about. I was never the best student, there was always someone better than me, I never scored optimal on exams; but that doesn’t define me haha. Your age doesn’t define you. You’re probably a really cool chick raised by a USNA alumni; who wouldn’t want to be friends with you?? I’m actually jealous! You’re so accomplished already!
When I go to USNA I want to be the best I can be!
So what if we’re the 20/21 yr olds, a bit older than our classmates; we have more experience with college, and we have virtually more knowledge. We can use that to our benefit. I need all the knowledge and confidence I can get before jumping into what will be the four most stressful years of our lives. </p>