I’ve heard that most top colleges want to hear that you excel in one specific domain rather than attempt to be a “Jack of all trades.” I know this holds true for the research universities, but does it hold true with West Point? Or do they want, as their website says, to see a “holistic candidate?”
West Point looks at a bit of both, but definitely places emphasis on a well-rounded person. Many people do get recruited as exceptional athletes but lack in academics compared to others who aren’t as athletic. Still, West Point has three major sections to the application: academic (60%), leadership (30%), and physical (10%).
If you take challenging courses such as AP, IB, or honors classes in high school and do well in them, as well as do well on your ACT and SAT, and maybe even PSAT to become a national merit semifinalist or finalist, then your academic score is pretty much set.
For leadership, they look at officer positions in clubs as well as commitment to that club over time both as a member and as an officer. Student government, team captain, lettering, as well as programs like Boys and Girls state, Boy and Girl Scouts, and awards relating to leadership can cement your leadership score.
Finally, your physical score is based on the Candidate Fitness Assessment, the directions for which are found on their website. Practice each individual event and then practice the test all together before taking one for a grade. Also, if you are a girl, work on pull-ups, because even though it isn’t mandatory, it greatly improves your score on the CFA and it gives you some respect.
Basically, do many things, but show commitment to each thing that you do. Be passionate about your interests and West Point will see that.
I say all of this as someone who went through the whole application process not too long ago. Hope this helps!