Posted on Sep 15, 2014
The application & selection process of Service Academies
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Attached a news story from today's front page USA TODAY article regarding the current application process for Service Academies and how members of Congress play heavily into the final selections. Many might argue that this a nonissue and there are larger problems to worry about. Either way, I have the highest respect for those who commissioned through the ranks of Service Academies and would very much like to hear your opinion of this article regardless of background.
Do you feel there is a need to change this application & selection process? If so, what would be your recommended improvements or additional selection criteria?
Do you feel there is a need to change this application & selection process? If so, what would be your recommended improvements or additional selection criteria?
Edited 10 y ago
Posted 10 y ago
Responses: 4
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I worked for USMA Admissions as a local liaison for nine years. The nomination process is not the big deal. Potential candidates need to focus on making sure they are fully qualified and as best candidate as they can be. Once you know how it works it really isn't an issue other than being prepared for an interview or writing a letter. Some think political patronage gets people in, though this doesn't happen, since one still has to qualify. Every now and then a member of Congress can be a bozo and harm a candidate though the Admissions office knows who these are and works throough this issue. These bozos are rare and well known.
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I'm not a service academy graduate - and neither is Capt Brandon Charters (both Hornets from the no-so-world-renowned California State University, Sacramento) - however, as a follow up to this thread, it's great to see each of our service academies listed in the top 15 of highest-paying colleges for graduates!
http://money.cnn.com/gallery/pf/college/2014/09/10/higest-paid-graduates/index.html
http://money.cnn.com/gallery/pf/college/2014/09/10/higest-paid-graduates/index.html
Colleges with the highest-paid graduates
Graduates with bachelor's degrees from these U.S. colleges earn some of the highest salaries in the country, according to a report from PayScale.
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As having received an appointment to the USAFA via the mentioned selection process the nomination was the least of my concerns for admissions. I feel that this component only validates applicants from either a social or political perspective. Much like where General officers are nominated for promotion by the President of the United States, and then confirmed by the Senate. I say leave it as is as there are other channels that one can be commissioned. The service academies, ROTC programs , OCS, and even direct commissions have all served well in filling the military's need for officers.
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