For the personal statement that USNA requires, they want me to write about a particular life experience that shaped my character/integrity. I want to write about how I had to go through knee surgery after I tore my ACL, but I checked on the DoDMERB medical qualifications and any injury to the ligaments of the knee is grounds for disqualification of academy admission. I have to get a waiver for my medical exam to get past this. I was wondering if it would still be a good idea to write about my experience with surgery and recovery even though the injury may be the reason why my application isn’t qualified.
DODMERB site: http://www.usna.edu/Admissions/_files/documents/MedicalAppendix1.pdf (knee ligament injuries are listed under musculoskeletal system)
This question is definitely one for a more seasoned individual who is acquainted with the admissions process of the Naval Academy and what they look for, but any and all advice is appreciated.
I’m a USAFA ALO, but there are a lot of ways we look at applications the same way that Blue and Gold officers do when it comes to the process. I would look at that story and think, “He might not pass his DoDMERB.” What are some other ideas you have for an essay? I have sons that went to USNA (2011), USAFA (2015) and USMA (2017). One of them wrote about being bullied in middle school and how when he grew up (6’1" 180 tight end) and had the chance to take vengeance, he chose forgiveness instead and it helped him become a more compassionate leader. Another son wrote about what life was like as a military brat, living with life and death and how his dad is his hero. Do you have a military family member (parent, grandparent, aunt/uncle) who has been a hero to you? Your essay needs to show how you overcame adversity from within or from without and the process by which you overcame. Send me an message with your ideas and I’ll tell you what I think (I’ve written 15 books as well–LOL).