<p>DRL,</p>
<p>I was an ET (surface, Nuke was too laterally restrictive for me), for six years. I just got out this September and was accepted for Spring 2013. I’m deferring to Fall '13 for personal reasons, but I’m getting off topic, so let me begin answering your questions.</p>
<p>First of all, as you should be aware, GS is specifically for non-traditional students with the average age hovering right around 27 (I’m 24 and it looks like you just turned 24 if I read your U/N right). That said, they have a pretty solid veteran community on campus. The new president (or dean, I can’t remember) was quoted saying something along the lines of wanting more veterans. (I can’t find the source, but I believe it is on the gs.columbia website). Additionally, they have a pretty substantial military history ranging. Integrate it. Part of the application requires your SAT scores and high school transcripts, as well as any college credits taken, if applicable. I had a 2.61 high school GPA and my SAT scores were 1830. However, my college GPA is over a 3.9 and I had outstanding recommendation letters from my Commanding Officer and Departmental/Divisional LCPO. The admissions essay asks for 1500-2000 words. Many people go over. Mine was 1377, but I did not have any fluff. I was very direct about my experience in the Navy, why I performed poorly in high school, how it is different, why I want to go to Columbia and why it’s the right fit for me. </p>
<p>Basically, you need to take all of your accolades from your naval experience and let Columbia know why your position as LPO, a position typically held by one paygrade higher (say something like that - It let’s them know people trust you with more responsibility), will allow you succeed and excel in an Ivy League environment.</p>
<p>If your high school grades were poor and your SATs are mediocre (like mine), then college classes can only help (assuming you perform well). It shows growth and improvement. That is not to say that they will transfer, but it shows that you’re interested in advancing your education.</p>
<p>In my opinion, my admissions essay and letters of recommendation are what got me in. Take it for what you will.</p>