Chances at the Academy?

Bill0510
Sat, 04 Jun 2005 18:20:11 +0000

As mentioned in another thread, the logic displayed on this thread is so flawed at so many different levels that a post is almost not called for; that is, * almost * not called for.

First. I am curious as to why people feel the need to apologize when no insult or other deleterious offense has been committed. No wrong, no need to apologize.

Second. It is well established that the Academies do not look to grades alone in determining admittance. Whether or not one’s grades are good enough for another private institution is largely irrelevant. In any event, being in the top 25% of a “sucky” school is hardly a claim to intellectual horsepower.

Third. Hard to evaluate new SAT scores just yet. A score of 1270 using the old math/verbal places a candidate squarely in the middle 50% of applicants [at least for USNA]. Considering how many applicants–many more than are admitted–have NO problems, why would the Academy seek to admit somebody that does have problems.

Fourth. The Academy does not want recommendations from ALL teachers; as I recall, it was only your math and English teachers that are solicited. Maybe, in addition, your counselor.

Fifth. Most likely, your BGO [it might be helpful if an applicant knew what that was] will be familiar with your high school and the JROTC program. Despite what one might intend about hiding certain aspects of his/her background, it is likely that informal discussion w/ school counselors and/or JROTC commanders will reveal any problems w/ applicants.

Sixth. It is arguable whether, after four years, a sergeant’s position is an outstanding display of leadership. Commendable? Perhaps. Outstanding? Questionable.

Seventh. Homosexual activities are a cause for separation from military service. If you are not *homosexually active * [or don’t intend to be active–see below] then you may not be violating regulations. This give rise, however, to a question: If one is not sexually active [or intend to be sexually active] with same-sex companions, are they still a homosexual? Is one a homosexual if they are merely attracted to same-sex companions but do not otherwise act on their attractions? That is, isn’t a homosexual defined by their sexual orientation and activities? [The military defines a homosexual as a person who “engages in, attempts to engage in, or has a propensity to engage in, or intends to engage in” homosexual acts, which, of course, are further defined to include bodily contact between membes of the same sex intended to satisfy sexual desires.] So, avoid the defined activities and you are home free.

Eighth. This is a GREAT thread. Youngster angst, pathos, ethos, logos . . . all in one. My young jedi, the choices you have made and the genetics you have [whichever belief you espouse] are the ones that you have. Suggesting that OTHERS have insulted you for being honest does not change the cold, hard facts of your record. At the same time, do not insult others for being honest with you.

Conclusion? Some people have a lot of issues in their lives. The military is not in the social services business. Why choose a marginal candidate with issues over outstanding candidates with no issues? That’s life.

Sounds like GPA isn’t the only thing that sucks.