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: 2/22/2008 Subject: What is expected
Question Hello, my name is Ashley, I am a junior in high school, and I have completed the Pre-application/Summer Seminar application to USNA. I have a 4.3 G.P.A. ranking me 7th in my class though I am ranked 2 in quality. The awards I have received are, the 4.0+ Plaque both years of high school, the departmental award for physical science (meaning I was the best student and highest grade in that class out of the whole school), the departmental award for chemistry, the Scholar Athlete Award, Who's who among American Highschools, and I am planning on winning tons more. Remember I still have this years awards and next years. I am in AP language and Composition, Kenyan College's AP Government, and Honors French 3 (That is only my honors/AP classes), next year I am taking Honors Physics, AP English Literature, Kenyan College's AP American History, Honors French 4, and another college course that will help with my path. I am Captain of all 3 Academic Clubs at my school. I play varsity tennis, run varsity indoor track, and varsity outdoor track. I am a member of about 4 other clubs and 1 volunteer club. I do other community volunteer work as well. Okay, so my question is, Do you think I have good chances of getting into USNA? Am I on the right path?
Your answers are greatly appreciated, Thank-you so much for serving our great nation, and Go Navy! Beat Army!
Answer Ashley,
There is no right or wrong path to get into an Academy. The admissions board is looking for future leaders. These leaders can come in many shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. You appear to be doing everything you can do to excel. That is important. It's not that you should be overly involved. Just make sure that you excel at what you do.
Academics, clubs, and sports are all ways to show that you have leadership potential. Academics show that you can be molded and learn. Clubs show that you are well-rounded. Leadership positions show that you are trying to learn to be a leader now. Sports are great, because they show that you care about your body as well as your mind and soul. However, these are not guarantees for an appointment. You will need to gain a nomination from a Congressman/Senator (or equivalent). This is a crucial step. Interviewing is important to show that you can think things through as well.
Yes, I think you have a good chance at getting in. I just want you to realize that there is no 100% chance. I'll leave you with this question:
Suppose there was another girl in your state that had the exact same credentials on paper that you have. What would make you stand out from her?
If you can answer this question honestly and effectively, I think you are on the right path. Remember that leadership potential is the key. That is the whole point of the academies. Their sole purpose is to develop you into a leader. Do you have what it takes?
