<p>I am currently a junior and am wondering if it is a good idea to contact my senator or representative by email. I know there contact information, but I just want to know what I should include in the message or if this is even a good idea. Thanks.</p>
<p>Writing a formal letter is a MUCH better idea. Introduce yourself, your intentions/goals, and a few tid bits to introduce yourself.</p>
<p>Write a formal letter and be sure to ask for any Nomination applications they have. (Most MOCs will have their own application for you.)</p>
<p>MOst MOC's aren't really looking for a formal letter any more. Often an e-mail or a phone call will get the application materials to you. Spare them the personal information at this time. The application will ask for more personal information than you can imagine. MOC web sites can be very useful. Also, it's probably better to get to know the congressional staffer who handles academy applications rather than the MOC. The staffer has far more influence on your nomination and can really help you if there are problems with your application or things related to your interview. The staffer in our MOC's office became a good friend and is following up on our son's activities and experience at the academy. That may not be so common, but the staffers really are some of the best guidance you can get.</p>
<p>Yes, the staffers become a huge part of your process. My MOCs' staffers began knowing my name quite well and remembering my calls. They are extremely helpful.</p>
<p>As a note, I never made any first contacts, my first paperwork to them was my application.</p>
<p>I would make a "first contact" to every one of your potential nominators including the VP ... this is standard procedure.</p>
<p>You might check out the VP's web site. I'm not sure he actually wants an application from anyone. I think he's taking recommendations only from the academies. Could be mistaken, but I'm pretty sure that's the way it was last year.</p>
<p>Speaking of nominations, I have pretty much completed my file for my representative and one of my senators. I called the other senator's office and spoke with the woman who handles nominations, then sent a letter requesting more information. I waited for two weeks, then called the office again on Monday. I left a message, but she has not called me back. I don't want to be a pest, but would it be appropriate to try again today or tomorrow? I am applying to USAFA and USNA (USAFA is my first choice), so I am seeking an Air Force nomination from my represenatative and a Navy nomination from one of my senators. I am planning on seeking another Air Force nomination from my other senator, just in case I don't recieve the local one. I would like to have all of my information submitted in as timely a manner as possible because I believe that this demonstrates my dedication. Also, I want to make sure that they have adequate time to review my material.</p>
<p>My cadet (class of 09) filled out an application for a VP nomination and sent it in, I remember it was much less paperwork than the other nomination packets. She received a VP nomination last year (05). Not sure if the procedure is the same for this year but i do remember her filling out paperwork/application.</p>
<p>Jame3, be sure to apply for all your academy choices from all your nomination possibilities. There's no rule against that, and senator nominations are really hard to get. Be sure to tell your congressman and senators that you are interested in a nomination for both USAFA and USNA. You might just be offered both.</p>
<p>Along the lines of letting the Senator's and Congressmen know your Choices on Service Academies...We did not even know the Prep schools existed until we went to interview with our Congressman. They had a USNA Prep school student there to give us a talk, and we realized that we should not rule out attending the Prep Schools. Our cadet did end up going to the USAFA Prep school, and it was very beneficial. The education and military experience gained there were very valuable when the time came to go to the Hill. We looked at it as being similar to being Red-shirted for athletics at a University.</p>
<p>I know many of you are the best of the best, and the top of the bunch....but honestly there are alot of you out there seeking to get into a Service Academy. I would highly encourage you to be open to all of the options, especially is you are determined to go to a Service Academy.</p>