<p>A few years ago my son was accepted to SLS, or equivalent with a slightly different name, seminars at all four of the five service academies at which they were offered; he attended three of the four and loved all three. The only academy offering a formal graduation ceremony was the USMA at West Point, which we, as parents, regretably were unable to attend. Although our son did not have time to share a great deal of info. with us, he did mention that the interviews were informal and conducted by student squad leaders. The interview mainly consisted of asking the attendee, our son, his thoughts about the 6 day experience and whether or not he would like to attend the academy. Our son knows several students who did not attend SLS, or were rejected to SLS, yet were admitted to a service academy. The SLS equivalent at the USAFA in Colorado Springs was tantamount to acceptance to the academy if the student completed all requirements.</p>