<p>usnaathlete2013: well, in light of the fact you are applying to USNA, you have your good points now don’t you!</p>
<p>So-
will assume you were reading here, had a question, and decided to join in. All good. Sometimes you have to just stick your toe into the water first before you make the leap!</p>
<p>will also assume you are looking to put your best foot forward. If you have to stumble a bit, best to do it here. If nothing else, this is a good place to send up a test balloon to see which way the wind is blowing, where the strong currents are, and where the tornado’s are forming. </p>
<p>You have decided to apply to a terrific program- it takes some guts, a lot of initiative, and a whole heck of character, persistance and tecacity. I will be the last one to shoot you down for trying, so please continue to ask your questions and test the water. The only thing I would ask is that you listen to the comments offered as objectively as you can - keep an open mind- and then make your decision either way. You will get the gammet- the good, the bad and sometimes even the ugly- but one thing is for sure, you will get a broader perspective than what you started with, and in the end, more info on which to make YOUR decision. I stress YOUR decision, because you will be the one reaping the outcome- be that good, bad or indifferent.</p>
<p>So never let us sway you one way or the other- but do factor it all in. As hard as it is sometimes (I struggle with this myself!) try not to take things personally- trust that “most” of what is offered in these forums is done so with good intent- and that which differs will quickly declare itself, and you will quickly learn to discriminate between the two and let the nasty stuff roll off like water off a duck’s back!</p>
<p>So you have lots of answers to your question to consider, and now it’s your turn to make your decision. Make it in peace! </p>
<p>But more importantly, do continue to stick around and ask away! We will continue to spout our advice- and then some! Just don’t lose the forest for the trees! </p>
<p>Best of luck!</p>