<p>Wheelah</p>
<p>I understand and that may prevent such an approach from ever being adopted or even considered. We do live in a dynamic environment with challenges that change along with our potential foes; one of many reasons why change does occur even at the Naval Academy. I think it’s reasonable for the Academy to consider some middle ground in whatever form so the future crop of Naval officers can place a greater emphasis on the pursuit of a technical degree and still have a chance to experience some language opportunities despite their choice of an Engineering/Science track. I understand it may come down to the fact that there are not enough hours in their schedule to make something like this happen.</p>
<p>If that is the case perhaps they can look at language proficiency as another element of summer training. Offer a language class as a 2-3 week summer block each year. Spend a block or two of your summer out in the fleet and one back in Annapolis working through an intensive language program. I think you would still need to use it during the year if any of what you learned during the summer was going to stick but it may provide enough of a foundation for a Mid to continue on their own. </p>
<p>Given the current approach to languages and his desire to select an Engineering major our son decided to buy a copy of the Rosetta Stone language program to work with when he has time. Short of a direct approach I guess they could always make them available to interested Mids…</p>