Im a sophomore in highschool. I have a solid 4.2 to 4.5 GPA. I play Varisty tennis, soccer and JV lacrosse. Im planning on joining the SGA next year and beginning to do some volunteer work. Also I am a captain on tennis and possibly soccer. I have done my research on the academy. I want to attend but I am not sure if it is the right place for me. Its a little bit intimidating but at the same time I am drawn to the challenge and desire to defeat. I have my eyes on flying. I am seeking advice from graduates or current cadets. What is your background before the academy? What should I do to accomplish acceptance? What should I do to prepare? Why did you go? I also should mention I have a strong Christian faith. I feel drawn to the academy and can not see myself doing anything else. I am seeking guidance from God but sometimes what I want is different then what he wants. My email is philip.davis4@yahoo.com I would appreciate some emails so I can get a feel for things. I am willing to fight for the extra mile to be accepted.
I don't know how much help I'm going to be, but seeing as though you haven't had any responses I'd like to offer any advise. I'm an AFJROTC Cadet Second Lieutenant. I've talked to Cadets from the Academy and all of them say it's not easy.
To prepare, you need to have good grades, physical fitness, and be of high moral character. Basicly, just do well in school, stay physically fit, and get involved in sports.
It's good that you're involved in sports, the Academy looks fondly on your involvement in extracurricular activities, and it's even better that you're a Captain on your Tennis team.
You should also talk to your Air Force Liaison Officer (ALO). He/She can talk to you more about what you need to do to get accepted. You should also check out www.academyadmissions.com that's the Academy website.
Your GPA and extracurriculars look good. Right now, it looks like you have fairly good chances. The next step is contacting your ALO. Your guidance department/counselor should have your ALO's contact information. If they do not, you can find it at www.academyadmissions.com or www.usafa.edu
The academy intimidates most people, at some point. So, don't worry too much about that.
I was more of the brainiac type with a bunch of extracurriculars and one sport. I didn't prepare enough physically, and that has made my life here more difficult (please, don't make that mistake).
I too want to be a pilot. I came to USAFA because I felt that I could make a difference while serving my country (by doing what I really want to do--fly).
You should apply for Summer Seminar next year (about this time of year). Then, make sure you complete the application process in time (early, if possible).
They LOVE brainiacs...they need engineers, strategists, decision-makers...
I don't know if it is right for you, but I guarantee, if your GPA is a 4.2, you're on the right track.
Keep that GPA at 4.2, and keep all those extra-curricular activities. When you graduate, your options will be open. It's great hearing stories like yours!
As an old Grad, I suggest you do some real soul searching. To succeed at the Academy and then as an Officer, you must want the military life from the pit of your soul. If you have motivations other than a total commitment to the Academy and to the Service for all of your life, then the Academy is not for you. Why - It changes you - you will never be a civilian again.
Sounds like your mind is pretty made up and your just looking for confirmation, which is cool. If you are really worried about it though, know that you have other options like ROTC, and you can get a scholarship for that and still have the AF pay for your school. If you are looking for more options you may want to call up a ROTC detachment at another school you are looking at and talk to their admissions officer.
