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
Question Hello. My name is D.J. and I am currently a junior in high school. I plan to attend the Academy. I recieve good grades (A's and B's) and play baseball and football. I plan to start volunteer work soon and I am a member of two clubs in my high school. I am wondering what else i can do to improve my chances of being accepted.
Thanks
D.J.
Answer D.J.,
Great question. It's also a question that there is no one answer for. Each applicant to the Naval Academy is judged against a myriad of categories. There is not one specific thing that will guarantee your Nomination or Acceptance. It seems that you are on the right track.
Here are some things you might want to consider:
1. Don't try and spread yourself too thin. The Academy is looking for "well-rounded" not "overly-committed" individuals.
2. Concentrate on your grades. Your grades are the MOST important.
3. Look at your test ACT/SAT scores. The higher these scores are the better. A good rule of thumb is whether your SAT's are over 1200.
4. Sports is important. It's not crucial that you excel though unless you plan on playing collegiate sports.
5. Letters of recommendation help. Do you know any distinguished grads, politicians, high-ranking military officers, etc? These could help you out.
I know that some of these sound impossible. Trust me though...they are not. Seek out your congressman or senator. Start making an impression NOW. Write letters...lots of them. Keep your name in front of people. This way they know who you are when you interview and/or ask for a letter of recommendation. Just don't become annoying. :-)
I hope that this helped you out. If you have further questions, please let me know. I applaud your desire to serve in a time of war. That takes true character. Good luck and BEAT ARMY!
You can rate my service on here if you wish too.
Eric
