<p>I know this is an extremely open-ended question, and, ultimately, it is not something that can be deciphered by anyone save for the college admissions panel. However, I'm considering applying for USNA, and I'm wondering if I'll be accepted. I received a pamphlet for the USNA Summer Seminar recently and I'm going to apply to get in, and, perhaps, apply to go to school itself in the future. I'm definitely up for the challenge of USNA despite my obvious weaknesses, but please tell me what you all think I can do to make my chances greater. Please know that I am a girl, a junior in high school, and live in VA.</p>
<p>My step-dad attended USNA decades ago and was sadly killed shortly after while in training as a pilot. I'm also wondering how that may impact my acceptance.</p>
<p>Academics:
GPA: 3.56 unweighted
GPA: 4.11 weighted
PSAT: 213 (I haven't taken my SAT yet, but I my projected score is a 2130/2400)
I will have taken 10 AP classes by the end of my senior year.
I rank in the top 10% of my very large public school</p>
<p>Extracurricular:
National Honor Society (I plan on applying for co-president next year)
Congressional Debate Team (going to metrofinals in March)
Extemp -- Speech
UNICEF Club Member (I plan on being on the executive board for this next year)
Sigma Tau Sigma (Executive Board Member)
French Club
Secular Student Alliance</p>
<p>Athletics (This is by far my weakest area):
Cross Country (JV freshman and sophomore year)
Track (JV freshman and sophomore year)
I cannot do push-ups/sit-ups well. Please, please, please help me in this area. I think it might be too late to get into a Varsity sport... I'm well aware of the 90% of students who have Varsity letters at USNA, and I have no clue what to do. I have no idea where to even begin. Will my extensive academic and volunteering portfolio alleviate this issue? How severely is athleticism judged for candidates?</p>
<p>Outside of School/Extra stuff:
Member of Girls in Technology, a selective program for girls interested in STEAM fields
Girl Scout Ambassador
Raising a service dog for Guiding Eyes for the Blind (for my Gold Award Project)
I'm a confirmed Catholic and a member of my church CCD class
Camp counselor-in-training for two years at Girl Scout camp
I am planning on attending Gov School for Humanities over the summer</p>
<p>Your fine and you started on the right foot. Some will say it is early to apply for the class of 2019 but it’s not. The one thing that you will not be given is your chances. Your only chance is to apply. If your going to apply for the Naval Academy you should also apply for the NROTC scholarship. Even if you do not want NROTC apply anyway. There is a lot to both of these applications and way too much to tell in one sitting. Start your research and read the PM I sent to you.</p>
<p>By the way the “Congressional Debate Team” should be a powerful addition to your application. </p>
<p>Regarding NASS, my DS had the time of his life and is a 2018 candidate. Along with NASS they also have a candidate visitors weekend. Read the PM I sent you.</p>
<p>Disclaimer: I’m also a class of '19 (soon to be) applicant, so I’ve got no personal knowledge, but from talking to many, many USNA grads, parents, mids, etc., I’ve got at least some stuff to help you.</p>
<ol>
<li><p>It’s really impossible to do chances because so many things factor into the decision…I like to say service academies are harder to get into than Harvard because of the nomination and fitness parts. </p></li>
<li><p>VA is a very competitive state; what district are you in?</p></li>
<li><p>NASS is even more competitive than the Academy itself, and if you don’t get in, that doesn’t mean you don’t have a chance at USNA itself, and vice versa. Also, NASS gives you a limited view of the Academy because it shows all the wonderful, fun stuff. </p></li>
<li><p>Your step-father won’t impact your application. Also, being a female doesn’t matter either.</p></li>
<li><p>It’s not necessarily too late to earn a varsity letter, and at the very least, if you can, do JV sports still. Something is better than nothing. And at the very, very least, you need to be able to do sit ups and push ups, because it’s on the CFA and especially if you’re lacking in the sports department you need to do well on the CFA. Start practicing, and talk to someone (a gym teacher or sports coach maybe) to give you advice. Start by doing wall push ups, then modified push ups, and so on and so forth.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>
It’s a big thing, and while of course, there are candidates who are admitted without varsity sports, it’s important.</p>
<p>My son attended NASS last summer and loved it. He did his application online at mid-night because he thought it would give him the best advantage. (his G.C. at school recommended this as well). He is a current applicant. I do think that being a female is an advantage due to the fact that their are more men at the academy and fewer female applicants. Like the previous posters I agree that NASS doesn’t necessarily mean acceptance. Many mid-shipman were never accepted to NASS.</p>
<p>It’s best to contact the offices of your elected representatives this Spring/Summer to let them know you are interested. Sometimes getting the nomination is the biggest part of the battle. All of them have their own application process and way of evaluating candidates. In addition, you can find out the name of your blue/gold officer (BGO) online. You can reach out to them in the Spring/Summer. They can be enormously helpful to you! Best of luck to you! BTW, the Navy Application itself is a big one. Best to get it in to NAVY by early fall. I think my son’s was completed by September 15.</p>
<p>Agree with other posters to pursue the NROTC application. You pick 5 schools on that. Also a big application. I hope this is helpful.</p>
Yeah, it used to be a pretty big one, and even if the early 2000’s it was, but admissions is pretty much gender-blind now; I’ve been told this by a BGO. I think it’s because they have a lot of female applicants now (not as many as the guys, but a significant amount).</p>
<p>Hey! I can’t send PMs yet (newbie here!)… I’d just like to say:</p>
<p>Thank you so much! I’m checking the website out now; my username is navvybound as its predecessor was taken unfortunately. </p>
<p>It’s all a bit overwhelming, but the hard work will be worth it.</p>
<p>Hearing that academics and leadership are more heavily weighted is the best news I’ve received. I’m still going to start working out more often, push-ups, sit-ups, miles runs, etc. However, my chances of getting into a Varsity sport are extremely slim given my lack of experience and innate athleticism.</p>
<p>I’m so worried that I’m putting forth a lot of time and energy and I won’t make it in… </p>
<p>Wow, it’s so great that you’re applying too! I’d love to hear about your application experience as you go along too. Thank you so much for your input :)</p>
<ol>
<li><p>I’m in the 10th district; my Rep. is Frank Wolf.</p></li>
<li><p>That’s good to know about NASS… I’m still hoping I get in! Are you applying?</p></li>
<li><p>My parents are actually looking into getting me a personal trainer specifically for the CFA. I’m hoping to see some serious improvement! Also, I’m planning on returning to Cross Country and Track, hopefully making the Varsity team; however, my chances are slim because my team is enormous every year.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>Either way, I’ll take your advice about “some sports is better than no sports!”</p>
<p>Excellent, I will watch for your post on the other forum. This being my 2nd child through the system there is still a lot to learn as a parent. My DS purchased the book “The Naval Academy Candidate Book: How to Prepare, How to Get In, How to Survive” Author:<br>
Meneely, John.</p>
<p>There was a section for we parents that was quite helpful. Adding to that was sitting in on an admissions brief at the Academy and our parental interview with our sons BGO. </p>
<p>There is a lot to dive into but again you started at a very good time. The book I mentioned is only one of many but again it helped. My son has been through it so much that the binding is now shot.</p>
<p>I suggest taking your post from here and placing it on the other forum I told you about. See what kind of response you get. The only suggestion is do not ask to have others chance you. As I said your not going to get much from that. Look to see what the discussions are about. Field a question that you may need some guidance on. You should also look at the NROTC web site. Again, apply for both the Academy and NROTC, the boards like to see that. You will also see a section for ROTC on the site I told you about.</p>
<p>CE527M also made some very important points. The two that really stood out to me was that VA is a very competitive state. & If not selected to NASS it is not the end all. NASS is also very competative. Could not agree with these point enough. </p>
<p>In the end if your serious about this you need to apply to know other wise…you will never know what you don’t know.</p>
<p>By the way that was an outstanding PSAT it will be helpful with NASS. Now add a “0” to the end for the real SAT, that will be really helpful on your Academy application. Last point don’t just hold yourself to the SAT, take the ACT as well. If you knock that out of the park like the SAT send both scores.</p>
<p>Do not allow the process to get in your head and be overwhelming. Engage and drive yourself. This is one of the things they are looking for. </p>
<p>Good luck…you started the journey now push through and go for it!!</p>
I’ve been talking to a few different Academy applicants, and one of the biggest things I’ve taken away from them is that regardless of whether they were appointed or not, they really learned a lot from the application process (because, boy oh boy, is it a lot!) and they actually felt they improved as a person going through the whole process.</p>
<p>
That’s one of the more competitive districts I believe; I’m in 5. (They’re all competitive though, it’s VA ha.)</p>
<p>
Yep, and I’m hoping I get in too (only a few more days 'till the application opens)! A guy from my church went last summer (and is now a plebe) and had a blast.</p>
<p>3unitsIlove gives some awesome advice…the book he recommends is excellent (I received it for Christmas of 2012 and ripped through it in a couple of days). I’m guessing the website he told you about is Service Academy Forums…there’s a ton of great advice on there.</p>
<p>NROTC is a great plan B, and you can always apply to USNA as a freshman in college if you aren’t appointed the first go 'round.</p>
<p>I just posted it on a thread just now; I hope I did it correctly, haha! </p>
<p>The book sounds like a perfect way to immerse myself in admissions and so forth. Thank you so much for the recommendation!</p>
<p>I’m really banking on getting into NASS… I can’t help but feel I will be seriously discouraged if I don’t go. Well, more so my parents than I. They say they will get me everything I need (a personal trainer, books, everything) if I get into NASS… Looking at the competitiveness, I’m thinking that it’s pretty slim that I’ll get in. However, I will still do my best!</p>
<p>Thank you, I’m taking the SAT in March for the first time. I’m hoping my scores will improve much more seeing as I took the PSAT without any prepping I’ll most likely take the SAT again in September/November and the ACT around the same time.</p>
<p>I heard VA was really competitive! I’d imagine my district would be the most competitive next to 11 since we are closer to Maryland, and the wealthiest which is unfortunate for me!</p>
<p>I’ve just started writing by 1000 word essay; I’m so nervous (excited, though!) for the 17th. I’m hoping we both get in; that would be very cool. Do admissions evaluate you on your athletics? According to the website it appears like it is mostly academics (your test scores and class ranking) and your essay, but I’m not sure.</p>
<p>I’ll definitely try to get my hands on the that book. It sounds informative. </p>
<p>Also, could you briefly tell me what your athletic credentials are? It’s okay if you don’t want to; I’d just like to know to get a feel for what I’m up against haha ;)</p>
<p>I think for NASS, it’s mostly just academics and essay, as well as geographic location (it’s also a “recruiting” program…they especially want people to go from underrepresented areas). Which doesn’t help us at all, ha.</p>
<p>
Sure, I’ve run track since 9th grade, which is it (and I’m not great). So I’m sort of in the same boat you are. I really wish I had been more proactive in 9th grade and joined another sport, like swimming. But oh well! I’ll just work with what I’ve got and hope for the best.</p>
<p>Okay good! That’s definitely comforting to hear that academics is what matters for NASS… I’ve run Track and Cross Country since 9th grade as well! I skipped Cross Country this year because I wasn’t seeing any results and my schedule was getting a bit hectic, but I’m returning to Track next month and Cross Country in the summer. Most likely on the JV team… but at least it’s something!</p>
<p>Physical fitness is a HUGE part of what USNA is looking for in applicants. If you don’t do varsity sports, workout daily, have your own fitness regime you WILL be behind your peers if given an appointment. Regardless of your h.s. background, you will be expected to keep up with those having extensive sporting experience. Consider trading off some clubs/extra-curriculars if you are serious about applying. I can’t speak to your specific school, but sometimes clubs/ECA’s can be fun and you make new friends, but if you can’t specifically describe what you do (besides ‘go to meetings’), then that really won’t help your application look any better.</p>
<p>Have a plan B, since you are applying to a VERY selective school.</p>
<p>NEVER SETTLE… You said you were going back to track, “most likely on the JV team.” As Time2 has indicated this is a VERY competitive school. Your not going to be able to just lay down and settle at the Academy, your going to work your mind and body harder than you ever thought possible. If your going to go for this then grab hold and be as competitive as possible each and every day. </p>
<p>If your going back to track set your sights high and be competitive. Do not settle for “most likely on the JV team.” If you go into it with that thought than that is what you will earn. </p>
<p>I have coached for 16 years, 10 at a competitive level for kids. Go to your coach on Monday and talk to him / her about their team expectations and let them know that your goal is to support the team, their goals, and that you want to earn your varsity letter. </p>
<p>We all have walls in our lives that “WE THINK” we can’t go through, around or over because our minds can work against us. It will shock you once you reach down inside yourself and do something you did not think was possible. Control your outcome by fighting what you think is difficult by remaining positive and in control. </p>
<p>If your coach wants to see you run the mile in 8min on day 1, practice now and do the mile in 7:40. If the coach wants 5 push-ups practice now and on day 1 give him / her 10. You have to push through each and every day. March to your own drum beat and don’t worry about what your friends are doing. This brings me to leadership and following. The Academy wants leadership. Even if your not the best out there you can still lead and motivate. Be humble, accept humility and failure and make them your greatest accomplishments. </p>
<p>A coach sees more than you think!!</p>
<p>Find that inner strength that your mind hold back. If you settle now, you will settle later. NEVER SETTLE…</p>
<p>I agree. I am going to really work hard to make Varsity. I’m joining high and long jump this year. Making Varsity will be difficult, but I’m training on my own to hopefully make the team. I’ll let you all know if I make it! :)</p>
<p>I’m already getting better at push-ups and crunches. Everyone is right; it’s only a matter of practice and repetition.</p>
<p>Anyway, I won’t settle. I will work my very hardest and challenge myself.</p>
<p>“Making varsity will be difficult”… Not if you put everything you have into it and leave it all on the field / floor. Again, a coach sees thing you dont know about. Just be positive and work harder than everybody else, at the say time support your teammates. Don’t sit back and expect something to come to you…earn it! </p>
<p>Yes, everyone is right; it is a matter of practice and repetition but not just “only.” Rememebr what I said if you can reach down inside and find that inner confidance of giving just a little more; the extra sit-up’s, push-up’s, inches in the long jump will be your reward. </p>
<p>“I will work my very hardest and challenge myself.” This is your key to getting that varsity letter, it starts with this very statement.</p>
<p>I saw your other posts from the other forum. You had some nice responses. When a moderator jumps in that is extra nice. Start with his / her response, get the book I told you about, apply for NASS, try to visit the campus (now if possible) and do as much research on what your getting yourself into. As a Navy veteran myself find what the honor concept & mission statement is of the Naval Academy. Ask yourself one question. Am I ready to live what this means? If the answer is no your journey should end. If your answer is yes then go for it and don’t look back. Put yourself in a place that will make you competative. </p>
<p>One more thing… Don’t forget to apply for NROTC. If you have questions use the other forum I told you about.</p>
<p>navybound, if you need any assistance or have any questions, I can help. I have just recently been through the Naval Academy admission process. I went to NASS, later received a Letter of Assurance, and this weekend I received my Offer of Appointment from the Academy. You seem to have the drive for the Academy, so keep up the hard work!</p>
I’ll most likely take the SAT again in September/November and the ACT around the same time.</p>