<p>To mdfromct:</p>
<p>I will not try to even guess at the machinations of the admissions office in trying to determine the appointments, either direct to the academy, or to foundation or NAPS.</p>
<p>What I would like to do is give you a mom’s perspective.</p>
<p>First, I don’t understand why YOU are doing all the calling and checking. This is your son’s journey and he must be the one who takes the initiative to follow up as best as possible. Guide him, be his sounding board, but let him make those calls if he truly wants this.</p>
<p>Second, you already know he is on the lower end of the academic scale. Everything is relative to everyone else applying from the same state or district. Some less qualified candidates will be admitted from less competitive regions while more qualified will not be successful merely because of the pool from their congressman and/or senator. I know your son is fantastic; we all think our children are the best things on earth, but the eyes of the admissions office are less biased than we are in evaluating our sons and daughters. Knowing this, make sure you have a back-up plan B, C, and maybe even D. Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.</p>
<p>Third, pray. If your son has done everything in his power to promote his candidacy, that is all that is left. If he does not realize his dream this year, then reevaluate for next.</p>
<p>I wish your son every success in his quest.
Candidatemom</p>