<p>So I contacted admissions at the naval academy earlier this year, and they basically told me I need to improve my math score on the act in order to receive a candidate number. So I immediately began working with tutors, taking practice act's, and trying to tweak my test taking skills. Well, I have two more act's to get my math score up (one being this Saturday) and it is just now hitting me that this could be it. What happens if I dot go up? What if all the work I have put in doesn't help me improve? I have written several letters in the past to the academy to try to reinforce to them how much attending this academy means to me. But if I do not improve is there nothing more I can do? I have heard a story of one person who actually flew out to the academy to meet with a member of admissions personally to tell them how much attending the naval academy meant to them and intern was given the option to attend naps. Granted this sounds more like a myth then a story, im willing to try anything.</p>
<p>There are always options, but you might not like to hear about them. The first is, get your math scores up. Nothing can be done for you if you're not competitive. They don't want to see you being admitted to the academy, just to flunk out. It's a very tough school. Next, try another route to the Navy, a la ROTC. Or, you could also attend a junior college for a year and work on getting your scores up. Then again, you might decide to enlist and apply to the academy, via the NAPS route. It really depends on how hard you want to WORK for it. That is what will win brownie points with the admissions folks. They don't cotton to whining about really, really wanting it. That is not going to help, but rather hurt your chances. You might not get in this year, but there is always next, if you're serious about attending. They DO like someone who can overcome their own personal demons and struggles. Are you up to the challenge?</p>
<p>Have you tried the SAT's math? I know that the tests are actually fairly different and that some people who score well on the SAT score poorly on the ACT and vice versa.</p>
<p>First off, your post isn't pointless... If anything this board needs more potential mids posting, although I do enjoy, and sometimes take part, in the constant bantering between parents and grads... </p>
<p>Anyway, with your situation, you are at the point where you need to do anything and everything you can to get you into the Academy. First and foremost, which was mentioned earlier, is that you need to get your ACT grades up. Without competitive standardized test scores you'll be dead in the water. As far as flying out to meet the admissions officer; that may help, but its not that likely (I did drive out a few times, but I was from philly). A more resource concious approach would be to talk to your admissions officer on a semi-regular basis. To the point where they know you REALLY want it, but not past the point of annoyance. Its a bit of a fine line that shouldn't be crossed. My number one point of advice for you would to talk to everyone who knows anyone who knows anyone. My first lesson in connections came when I applied to the Naval Academy. Mind you, I didnt slip by because of connections (I had a 1420 SAT, 2 sport captain, and top 5 percent of my class), but sometimes connections will get you looked at a bit more seriously, to the point where, as a firstie, the dean of admissions remembered my name, SAT score, and the sports I captained. Thats what connections can do.</p>
<p>Anyway, if this year doesn't work out, then you need to look at your priorities. If #1 is to be a naval officer, the maybe you should just go NROTC. But if its worth it for you to be comissioned out of the Naval Academy, then go for it.</p>
<p>Try the SATs. It's not too late. You haven't told us anything else about yourself, therefore, it is hard to advise. If you are unsuccessful this year, go to a good college and do well in the normal plebe year courses. This will mean more than SAT/ACT competence.</p>
<p>Do you normally do well in math? Is it just test anxiety?
As a NROTC Mom I can tell you that if you end up going that route you will still be required to take 2 semesters of Calc. and 2 semesters of Physics...the same courses that the engineering majors take (as opposed to the easier versions, I mean). So work hard on that math and good luck to you.</p>
<p>Unfortunately I have never been good at math, actually its always been my Achilles heel. USNA69, im a 3yr varsity lettermen in football with a 3.4GPA, ACT - Math-21 (thats what I really need to improve) English -25, Science-26, Reading-33. I'm also an editor of the school yearbook, member of the Chess Team and a member of Key Club. I know my transcript isn't exactly turning heads, that's while im trying to do everything I can.</p>
<p>^^^^^
WorkHardHardWork, you need to improve both your math and english scores. The minumum scores that the Admissions Board is looking for is 26 Math and 26 English. Your english score is good enough to get a candidiate number, but you need to do better to be offered an appointment.</p>
<p>Do your best then move ahead when you've determined your best has been done. Reality is that calculus can be difficult ... even for one Mid with a 34 M ACT. And there's no way to side step it or put it off at USNA. Good luck.</p>