<p>well I can’t say if you are “sunk”…
but it sounds like a great topic for your personal essay!
You have “me” curious as to what “impacted” you that turned things around-
and grabbing a reader’s interest is a good thing!</p>
<p>9th grade grades are what they are- a starting point. Showing progression each year, IMO, is far better then regressing and bailing out in senior year- but you will need to be able to speak to it… either in your essay, or you can speak to it when you interview with your BGO- a good BGO will include that in his/her write up- so be sure to explain it- you are correct, “no excuses” is the way to go- so speak to how you changed course and what you did to correct things. Turning adversity into a positive is a good testiment to character- and character is at the core of USNA.</p>
<p>Nail senior year. In this case, I would suggest perhaps handing in your application after you have some senior grades to report (usually I advocate for getting it in early)- but speak to your BGO and follow his/her advice- they will have your package before them and will be better able to judge. Do what you can to work closely with your BGO-they can be a huge asset. </p>
<p>What are your chances?
No one knows.
100% against you if you don’t apply.
So IMO, everything else is a “plus” and in your favor.
Have a back up plan- no matter how steller, have a back up plan.
Best of luck!</p>