<p>You should try and take all the nominations you can get. The reason I suggest this is because while the nomination process seems simple enough, there are a lot of things that can go wrong. ESPECIALLY if you don’t have an LOA. With an LOA, you just need a nomination. It doesn’t matter if you are #1 on the list or #10. Without an LOA however, it becomes a numbers game. </p>
<p>I don’t have the sheet in front of me, but each Representative is allowed so many people from their district in the academy at 1 time. Let’s assume for a second that the number is 5. If by change there are already 4 cadets at the academy from that district, then that rep is only allowed 1 more. I’m making up numbers because I don’t know the exacts at this time. But according to counselors at the academy, my son’s ALO, what I know from the academy and my own military experience, etc… there is a numbers game involved. Now, let’s assume that you are the principle nomination, but another individual WITH an LOA from your district is also on your rep’s list. Even the last name. I believe the LOA may trump you.</p>
<p>Even if I am a wrong to an extent, why take a chance. Be able to get in however it takes. Now, as far as the senator wanting to interview you, that shouldn’t be a problem. They understand that people have other things in their lives. You don’t have to tell them that it’s a wrestling match, but can say that you already have a prior appointment scheduled. Ask if they can do the phone interview either earlier, later, or a different day. Anyway, that’s how I would advise my son if he was still looking to get an appointment.</p>