<p>I have one child (not one of my AFA cadets) who needs a little push to get into new situations, but once there, he blossoms and does very well. It sounds a lot like your son, zackwheat. If the child were mine, I would gently nudge him in the direction of at least the interview with the ALO. After all, just because he is shy or slow to jump in with both feet now, doesn’t mean he will be so in the future - especially if he wants a (demanding)(and people intensive) medical career. If, after the interview, he doesn’t say, “Wow! THAT’s what I want!” and doesn’t make motions on his own to pursue it, then, I would drop it.</p>
<p>It can be very difficult for parents to deal with these situations, and I feel for you! Obviously, your son is motivated in scholastic pursuits, and in karate. Ultimately, I think that most of the kids who get the nom and appointment are good fits at the academies. You ALO may notice right away whether s/he thinks your son is a good candidate.</p>