<p>Hi all,
I'm a new mom here. In reading through the threads I came upon a distinction that I didn't understand. My son got three nominations, two Senators and one Congressman. I don't recall reading in the letters that he received that he was being selected for a principle nomination or a competetive nomination. (Although, I intend to rush home and re-read those letters!) I'm guessing that a principle nomination is the most desirable, but it sounds like all of this is just a random waiting game. (I know it's really not, but it SEEMS that way!) Of course, we are in "nail biting" mode and are looking for any signs of hope to get us through the next month or more as we await work. Any insight you could provide would be very helpful.</p>
<p>Thanks,
Kat</p>
<p>Well, here’s hoping you get good news before you hit the quick!</p>
<p>Yes, principal means the nominee is THE preferred nom and if he/she is 3Qed (scholastic/whole person, CFA, med) then he/she must receive apptmt. Competitive simply means “here’s my list of (up to 10) nominees for each slot available in my quota. You all pick USNA admissions folks.” An MOC can also have a principal nom and remaining either competitive …or ranked.</p>
<p>Again, good luck. May all dreams dreamed in your home come true.</p>
<p>Okay, here’s a follow-up question. Both of our Senators nominated 20 for USNA. How is that possible? I was under the impression that the limit was 10. I guess the good news is that my son got nominations from both, as did only 4 other students. Any ideas why they nominated so many?</p>
<p>Kat</p>
<p>It’s 10/available slot. Each Senator and MOC has 5 slots available for appointments at any given year. Each of your Senators apparently has at least 2 available slots (minimally 4 total), thus a max of 10 nominees/available slot for appointment. </p>
<p>Why so many? 3 reasons I can think of …</p>
<ol>
<li><p>There were at least 20 seeking USNA appointments deemed qualified by the Senators’ screening mechanisms …</p></li>
<li><p>Politics! Support as many as possible</p></li>
<li><p>They realize “things happen” and thus having alternates makes good nominating sense, assuming all are valid candidates. For example, some may choose alternate plans, some may not qualify, etc.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>Hey…that’s encouraging! (I think???) I need to take the advice I’ve been giving my son…say your prayers, then let it go!</p>
<p>I appreciate your prompt response!</p>
<p>Kat</p>