About Eric Shangle Expertise I am able to answer any questions you have concerning the United States Naval Academy
(USNA). I graduated from USNA and have served as an officer in the US Navy. My experience
at the academy, as a student-athlete, and as a naval officer will help me answer your
questions.
Experience
Graduate of the Naval Academy.
Education/Credentials B.S. Ocean Engineering, US Naval Academy, 1997
M.A. Human Relations, University of Oklahoma, 2002
MBA, Naval Postgraduate School, 2005
Expert: Eric Shangle Date: 1/9/2008 Subject: Son's Visit to Naval Academy
Question Good Morning - I have a question. My son is an athletic recruit and we have submitted all paperwork and he has received his Congressman nomination. My son is waiting on approval to visit the Naval Academy in Annapolis and I was wondering, is there anything specific we should know before he gets there like, what type of clothes should he wear, is business casual appropriate? Also, what will they be looking at when they meet and talk with him? Thank you. Traci
Answer Traci,
Thank you so much for answering this question. I revel in the fact that you are about to embark on a wonderful journey and experience...both you and your son. Your question takes me right back to my days in high school!
First of all, congratulations are due to your entire family!
I am not completely sure about what stage you are talking about with attire, etc. If he already received his nomination, then he should be just waiting for his appointment to come through. As an athletic recruit, this should be almost automatic. The coaches do have some pull in the process (I know from experience).
My advice is as follows. Always dress the role you want to portray. I currently work in HR and give this advice daily. You want people to perceive you in the manner you want to be perceived. Dress to impress. You can always OVER dress and be appropriate. This is something that the academy teaches you. You can arrive at any function wearing a uniform more formal. However, you should NEVER arrive wearing something less formal.
To be honest, attire is not all that important. The academies are federally funded. They can't discriminate based upon how a candidate dresses. Some people come from socioeconomic backgrounds that don't afford them the opportunity to buy dress clothes. However, if your son can dress well....DO IT!
Nothing will impress the Academy and their affiliates more than someone who truly is a class act. It shows that they take the process and institution seriously.
Quick story...when I was interviewing with my congressman there were so many people waiting to be interviewed. It was insane. I had on a nice sport coat and slacks. I did look good, however I remember seeing a bunch of kids (my age) in uniforms from their military schools and military programs. I felt so inadequate. It made me wish I was even more dressed up. In the end, it didn't matter. I got the nomination and appointment. I just wanted to be able to stand out and show them that I had what it took.
I know that this has been a long answer, but I think it's important for you to have an understanding about what your son is about to do. You are a part of this process as well. He is going to need your support along the way!
You also asked what you/he should know and what they are looking for.
You should know this. The academies are looking for the future leaders of tomorrow. That is it in a nutshell. Nothing more. They will be trying to ascertain whether is has what it takes to be stripped down to nothing (a plebe) and then be built up into a naval officer. Each person is looking for something specific. Just tell him to be HONEST and GENUINE. I am sure he will be fine.
If you have any other questions, please let me know.
Go Navy...Beat Army!
Eric
