Consider the CGA

Bossf51 · 08-19-2005, 11:56 AM

I know a lot of you are applying to West Point, AFA, Navy etc.
A viable alternative is the Coast Guard Academy. Although it is highly competitive it offers some advantages over the other academies.

1. You don't need a congressional or other type of appointment. Candidates are selected directly by the Academy.
2. It is the smallest of the service academies and as such offers a family-type atmosphere that is conducive to a successful career.
3.The mission of the Coast Guard is humanitarian.
4. It offers a tremendous engineering curriculum for those so inclined.
5. The school is Division III in athletics offering many opportunities to play for those who are not quite up to Division I.

Take a look at CGA. My son is there now and he is very happy with his choice. Good luck to all.

aspen · 08-19-2005, 12:11 PM

Here's a recent article about the Coast Guard Academy from an engineering careers magazine. I didn't know that the Coast Guard had been made part of the Homeland Security Department.

http://www.diversitycareers.com/arti...coastguard.htm

Bossf51 · 08-19-2005, 03:17 PM

Thanks Aspen for posting that excellent article. CG became part of Homeland Security in 2003 I believe. It reflects the service's increased role in defending our shores against terrorism. They are expected to get more funding for this purpose as time goes on.

taffy · 08-19-2005, 10:10 PM

yes, consider the CGA... just dont take my slot!

Jamzmom · 08-20-2005, 08:36 PM

Hi Boss... you're awfully quiet these days! I'm sneaking in here because I see you're busy recruiting again LOL. They should pay you a stipend! I would like to add to your last post that the CG MUST have more funding to do the work that they do. They play a huge part in keeping our ports safe. Makes me break out into a sweat when I think about what could happen without more Coasties to do this important job. When you see a busy port such as Norfolk and the traffic going to & fro, its amazing no disaster has occured yet. And its just a small one. You kids listen up! Get those apps in because we need you to study hard and learn well to keep us safe! Great article Aspen. Thanks. And Taffy, go for it!