The application & selection process of Service Academies

2014-09-15T20:45:35-04:00

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?

Response by Lt Col Skip Fleshman made Sep 16 at 2014 1:48 AM

2014-09-16T01:48:29-04:00

As a former AFA ALO (evaluating and helping AFA applicants) Id say the nominations are just one step in a very thorough process. Yes a senator, VP or presidential nomination carries a lot of weight but the kids must be qualified. And those qualifications are TOUGH!

Response by COL Eric Holmes made Sep 16 at 2014 5:22 PM

2014-09-16T17:22:41-04:00

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.

Response by SPC David S. made Jan 7 at 2015 8:03 PM

2015-01-07T20:03:48-05:00

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.

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Aug 12 at 2015 10:36 AM

2015-08-12T10:36:23-04:00

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

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.