<p>Do I sense a modicum of quibbling? splitting of hairs? need for the final word here?:eek:</p>
<p>Nah, I didn't think so. ;) Don'tworry. :cool: Be happy. :D</p>
<p>
<p>Nah, I didn't think so. Don'tworry. Be happy.
</p>
<p>I thought you were arguing with yourself but apparently not, so I will answer you. It also appears that, by some, at least, your own post could be considered an attempt at the last word.</p>
<p>First off, the discussion here is about a Senatorial nomination in a state where the competition is most likely not such that the names must be divided. The candidate more than likely will be able to apply to both Senators and also his Congressman. Also he is not missing his primary chance at nomination, his local Congressman. The odds of him not getting at least an alternate are very slim. Also the odds of him getting a primary, if this is the selection method, from his Senator, and nothing from his Congressman are even less likely. </p>
<p>Secondly, we are talking about a very important part of the admissions process, not a âsightseeing tripâ. It was this description, along with the comment that the advise has become parents vs candidates, that has caused me to weigh in. The Admissions Board ensures that those accepted have the academic credentials to make it through. The unknown is the desire of the candidates themselves. Knowing what they are facing is a huge part of this. CVW is probably the most important tool which they can utilize to ascertain their future. Additionally, the sooner the better, where it can be a part of their initial decision process, when they are most influenced. So yes, the parents may want their kids in an Academy, not really concerned with what they will be facing, while the candidates themselves are more pragmatic, desirous of real information. NASS is an artificial environment. CVW is the real thing. I would never, with very few exceptions, recommend a candidate accept an appointment without having attended CVW.</p>
<p>Additionally, most candidates look better on paper than they do in person. Not being negative, but most are not polished interviewees. Most boards realize this, I think, and, in my opinion, few candidates either âmake itâ or âbreak itâ based solely on the interview. Therefore, a legitimate opportunity to have the record go before a board without the interview should not be seen necessarily as a negative.</p>
<p>Lastly, the Academy desires the most qualified candidates. If a candidate, in the quest to become the most qualified candidate possible, made the decision to attend CVW and missed his sole chance at a nomination, and is a candidate in the top 1500 or so, which the Academy desires, they will probably work with his three MOCs after the fact to attain a nomination.</p>
<p>Each case is different and no blanket statements should be made. However, in this case I feel the candidate has a valid concern.</p>
<p>Whistle Pig, clear your PMs.</p>
<p>USNA69: Thank you for a very clear-cut explanation of the importance of CVW in the applications process. </p>
<p>One comment about NASS and CVW. From discussions with my dd, I think they each have important, but distinct roles. The environment at NASS is artificial, but it (mock Sea Trials) was an eye-opener for dd that she still wasn't ready physically. CVW showed more of the everyday life of a plebe, but it actually lessened her concerns about the academics, because she has already covered (in high school AP classes) a lot of the material in the classes she attended. It's too late for Class of 2012, but if anyone hoping for 2013 and beyond is reading, I urge all of you to apply for NASS, and to also attend CVW if given the chance.</p>
<p>Thank you for all of the advice! I agree that CVW is extremely important- and I was really psyched to go! However, it turns out that both of my senator interviews are that weekend. I have to go with my gut here and do the interviews ( I'd rather not leave it to chance with the congressman because my district is prob. the most competitive in the state- though the state isn't that competitive for USNA). I am going to call the academy and see if I can attend another CVW- for I do feel that this is a crucial part of my decision process ( plus I really really want to go :) ) Thank you again for all of the advice.</p>
<p>^^^^ sounds like a plan!</p>
<p>best of luck!</p>
<p>if I may.... posted some interviewing tips awhile ago- if i can find, will repost!</p>
<p>found it! good Interview thread!</p>
<p>how sweet would it have been if CVW was this weekend? think about all the history of this weekend.</p>
<p>If you were invited and attended the Naval Academy SS, would you get invited again to visit with a CVW?</p>
<p>There has been some good advice on this thread. I think that when you can find an alternative, namely to CVW, you should pursue that option and attend your nomination interview. When my son was applying several years ago, we had an interesting situation. A Navy coach was specifically planning on attending a showcase to observe my son playing at the same time that the MOC interviews were planned. He called the MOC's office and explained the situation. Since they knew that the coach could possibly have some influence on his admission, they happily agreed to schedule a separate interview for him. The entire panel was not in attendance but the head of the nomination process did interview him for well over an hour. They had a great conversation and my son ultimately received two nominations from that MOC. Bottom line is to evaluate where the flexibility is in the process and talk to those involved. I agree that CVW is important but there are alternatives to that date and I would push both my BGO and Admissions for another date.</p>
<p>Son called his regional director and was able to reschedule CVW for a later date. </p>
<p>Two nominations from the same MOC? Seems very odd...</p>
<p>My daughter had 2 nominations from the same MOC. He had 2 slates to fill that year and we were told that he wanted to make sure she had the best shot at getting in.</p>
<p>^^^^^</p>
<p>Strange. All he had to do was make your daughter his principal nom. That way, if she was triple Q'ed, USNA would have to select her. And, he could have another candidate in the pool to get an appointment. Then again, MOCs can do anything they want with noms provided it complies with the law, and regardless of whether it makes sense.</p>
<p>I had the same problem back in November, CVW the same day as my congressman's interview. I called and they were really understanding, and allowed me to do it over the phone, and I got the nomination, so I wouldn't worry about it too much. They are usually understanding about it all.</p>
<p>I never stepped on Academy grounds until I-Day. I think everyone knows what they're getting themselves into even if they don't visit.</p>
<p>Getting a nomination is a pivotal part to even having the opportunity of gaining entrance through the gates surrounding the yard.</p>
<p>I don't think I'd have fun on a CVW anyway, but it's just me. I mean think about it, you are a civilian attending classes with a plebe. I would feel so out of place and intimidated.</p>
<p>Better to wait and secure a nomination than have 2 days of shocking adventure at USNA.</p>
<p>With all due respect to the previous poster, would encourage anyone seeking to attend any of the academies- and for that matter, any school- to visit- and visit more than once. Would further encourage them to do an overnight stay if offered- regardless of school- you get a whole different perspective being amongst students as opposed to sitting in an information session, or readking just the catalogue. If you are going to feel intimidated and out of place, better to do it on a visit then on I-Day.</p>
<p>Don't know of anyone who would purchase a car before taking it out for a spin- and you are "purchasing" a heck of a lot more - $$$, time and effort- in taking this journey- best to make sure it is the right path for you!!!</p>
<p>Getting a nomination is essential to getting in.
If you can manage that AND visit the academy, go for it.
If unable to attend a CVW, then visit at another time- but visit.
You owe yourself that- you are picking the USNA every bit as much as USNA is picking you, and it has to be a "good fit" on both sides! </p>
<p>Best of luck!</p>
<p>^^^ ditto</p>
<p>In the case of a service academy I have to believe most people would derive some comfort for the knowledge they gain from talking to Mids that have just gone through the experiences that await you. "If they can do it, so can I". </p>
<p>Preparation for a SA is both physical and mental, aside from getting and staying in shape, knowing something more about experiences and expectations should have some value. </p>
<p>Our son came back from his CVW and commented that the experience reinforced his desire to attend. It was also the place he felt most at home at, in contrast to the "CVW's" he experienced at other academies as well as VMI. I would join the chorus that have commented to date and advise you to place a higher priority on your MOC interview, but still try and attend a CVW if your schedule permits it. </p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>^^^^^</p>
<p>Totally agree with last 2 posts. While it does depend to some extent on the individual, it makes good sense to visit any of the colleges you are seriously thinking of attending. I certainly believe that at least some who apply to an Academy do NOT fully understand the commitment that will be required of them.</p>
<p>If you feel 'uncomfortable' just visiting for a weekend, imagine how tough it would be to attend for 4 years. A visit is the right time to see if you feel you would fit in or that college is right for you.</p>
<p>In general, it is probably a bad idea if the first time you see your college is the day you move in.</p>
<p>Hey! I just wanted to let everyone know that I really appreciated the advice! I started this thread a while ago and eventually made up my mind to go with the MOC interviews. I'm glad I did because now I'm going to CVW in January and I got the principal nomination from the MOC whose interview I would have missed! Good luck to anyone else that was in my position- I know you'll make a great choice!</p>
<p>As is often the case, the real proof is in the puddin'. ;) Congrats. You made an exceptionally fine decision, I believe we might all agaree. Go get 'em!</p>