<p>Jason,</p>
<p>The only reason I posted this is because it was a concern of the initial poster on this thread, navygirl, and the advice, to me, was becoming somewhat convoluted. Then you wandered in, obviously wondering the same thing. If I have given you something to think about, and somehow cemented your desires to stick with your original plan, my mission has been successful. If you are still truly undecided about your career, probably USNA was not your best choice.</p>
<p>Again, good luck. Don’t sell out. Make an informed decision. Don’t forget your original dreams, and if you decide to be a merchant mariner, just remember that only a third of the graduating class actually goes to sea and the reason they promulgate monthly salaries in lieu of annual ones is that you will not be at sea 12 months out of the year. At a normal six months at sea annually, your salary will be commensurate with an O-1 who is serving his country.</p>