<p>This is about the time of year last that my son got his acceptance notification. (He was waiting on a medical to clear also). So don't give up yet! His alternate plan (after service academies) was to go to family alma mater also. I know there's times he thinks he's missing what his friends and sister have experienced--but then he knows they're missing what he's experiencing! </p>
<p>I think those who have said that the year of college and then re-apply are right--it does show perseverence & determination. And those are qualities you'll need! Watch out for the biggest roadblocks to a service academy that are widely available at a college--booze and wild living. You can have a great time at State U without them!</p>
<p>fm</p>