As my title mentioned, I’m interested in going into politics/law after college. Would the Naval Academy allow me to do that? Obviously I’d have to serve for about 5 years, but after that would I be capable of beginning a career in DC, be it in law, advocacy, or government? Would the Naval Academy set me up for success in a career like that? Any experience or advice would be much appreciated… Thanks in advance!!!
Absolutely! We’ve had many political professionals come from the service academies (e.g. John McCain). The Navy also has a robust law program if you want to explore becoming a JAG before leaving the service. Good luck!
USNA to JAG appears to be difficult: https://www.serviceacademyforums.com/index.php?threads/jag-corps.9100/
USNA to JAG is very difficult indeed, as USNA generally feeds less than 10% of grads into the restricted line communities, however after 5 years in an URL community(Navy or USMC), and assuming grades at USNA were decent, the unique background can definitely help getting into a civilian law school, but politics is a path that is a lot less clear cut.
Jimmy Carter went to Navy. He got into farming and then politics.
Certainly possible…I did it. A couple things. If you go to USNA, go with an open mind about serving a career. Its funny how many who thing they are going to be lifers leave early (like I did), and many who go in thinking this is just a stepping stone serve long careers. You cannot go to law school right out of college, but the Navy does have a program that sends junior officers to law school, usually at the end of their first sea duty. Its a great program, Navy pays tuition, and the officer is on active duty (so you get paid to go to school), but there is an extended service committment. If you get out, an undergraduate degree from USNA and Naval Service will certainly open doors politically, and I would expect it to help get into law school.