Apply to SLE if you have never been to USMA and want to see the fort, but SLE is just a summer camp marketing tool targeted to those who might not otherwise know about or apply to a service academy, like @mechemaj22 above. SLE has zero bearing on admissions and is not part of the Whole Candidate Score (WCS) used to determine appointments. MOST appointees do not attend SLE, so do not be concerned if you apply and are not selected as USMA is looking for that fringe applicant, not those who are already convinced that a service academy is for them.
Also note that SLE does not reflect what it’s like to be an actual cadet at USMA one iota. It’s just an opportunity to look around, play soldier for a week, get your questions answered, and compete a CFA (optional).
Love your post Mechemaj22. Your post belongs on the front page of West Point website! I’m glad you found your path! Survive the Beast and enjoy the Plebe year.
If you want to be a lawyer, why do you want to go to West Point? Even if you want to serve your country in the military as a JAG, there are “better” ways to get to law school. And if you are concerned about your math and science proficiency, remember that all cadets at WP take up to two years of engineering regardless of their major. It’s mandatory.
Army guidelines allow for law school only after 2 or more years of service. So you can’t go directly out of WP unless you have prior service before entering the academy.
I’ve always aspired to attend a prestigious service academy, more specifically USMA or USNA. I feel obligated, because of family history and a duty to my country, to serve my nation to the best of my abilities through the military. It will also secure me with a job for some time while leaving college. @Choski94 Thank you.
My son is an athlete and has been given a verbal commitment by two service Academiies here on the East Coast- he is an excellent student and is very interested in the service. However, none of his peers are supportive and think that he would get more out of an Ivy League school ( three are reaching out to him as well right now) as far as social life, academic choices and no “ pay back with possibly your life “ for five years after graduation. I think it’s a great opportunity and provides strong pathways to a young mans career and future. I need advice
I am new to this so I apologize for not being in the right thread. I will find out how to make a new one. You seemed very knowledgeable so I signed up and entered my question in this thread.