<p>As a high school junior, I'm curious about possibly applying to West Point. (I'm still not completely sure yet) I have all A's, volunteer at my local hospital, assistant captain of my school's hockey team, eucharistic minister, etc. (Theres more but this isn't a "What are my Chances?" thread). Overall I wanted to know if not being an Eagle Scout or high ranking member of some organization (like the Boy Scouts) will be a big problem if I were to apply to West Point. Thanks</p>
<p>Well, I don't think not being an Eagle Scout or high ranking member of some organization would cause you big trouble. Not everyone can become an Eagle Scout. One may work for one's best or even for 110%; however, not getting a high honor does not mean that one worked less. It's good to show some recognitions, but not always. I would like to emphasize the importance of participation and what you get out of it.
West Point would not turn you down, just because you don't have an Eagle Scout.</p>
<p>less than 20% of academy appointees actually attain eagle scout.</p>
<p>Haha. I was always under the impression that almost everyone was an eagle scout there. Thanks for the info</p>
<p>Those statistics are available on the academy websites.</p>
<p>As long as you have other leaderhship positions, not being an Eagle Scout won't put you at a major disadvantage.</p>
<p>Does leadership entail just being the captain of a team or can it include community activism and other related activities?</p>
<p>Leadership positions can encompass many different areas. As long as you demonstrate leadership in your community activism, then I would say it would count.</p>
<p>This link may help:
USMA</a> Admissions: Start Young</p>
<p>"The following high school experiences will develop and demonstrate your leadership potential:</p>
<p>Class, club, or student government position.
Awards in academic societies, such as the National Honor Society.
Participation and achievement in athletics.
Participation and success in public speaking and other nonathletic activities.
Participation and achievement in Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Civil Air Patrol, or Reserve Officer Training Corps.
Membership in community or church organizations.
The United States Military Academy considers it more valuable for you to achieve distinction in a specific activity, rather than participation in a number of activities without any evidence of leadership achievement. "</p>
<p>Icflyer,</p>
<p>Are you planning on applying to SLS this summer? That would be a great way for you to get a flavor of academy life. As you mentioned that you're not completely sure yet, this is an opportunity to take classes, have an invigorating morning pt session, have some of the fun part of military training, and meet with other rising high school seniors who are in the same boat you're in.</p>
<p>I'm hoping to go to the SLS but I heard its pretty tough to get into so we'll see.</p>
<p>But not as hard as you think! Be Confident!!</p>