<p>USNA1985 is right on. The BGO is a valuable source of information and should be a viable part of each candidate’s game plan. </p>
<p>With that said, one word of caution. The BGO is looking for both initiative and the will to succeed at the Academy. Therefore, asking him questions to which the answers are readily available on CIS, the catalog, USNA website, etc., can possibly raise a red flag. So a question of “What date do I have to have my application package completed” implies handholding, while a “I know that the catalog states that applications must be completed by March 1. Is this acceptable, or should my goal be an earlier date?” shows that you have done your homework and that you are asking for his opinion. </p>
<p>It is extremely difficult to give a “top 5%” interview grade to a candidate for whom you have walked through the entire application process by pointing out chapter and verse of where the information is available. Be totally familiar with the CIS and the Admissions section of the website. Read the catalog. Jot down questions. Then call the BGO.</p>