The Option of Military Academies
Our military academies are some of the best academic institutions in the country. They teach you about the military, as well as how to be a leader and an excellent individual.
The Different Institutions
There are differences in each of the institutions but they all have one thing in common. They produce some of the best leaders our country has to offer. Here’s a list of the different institutions:
- The United States Military Academy Preparatory School (West Point): Some of the leaders in the United States Army have come from this academy.
- The United States Naval Academy: Located in Annapolis, MD, this is where both Navy and Marine officers are trained.
- The United States Air Force Academy: The Air Force trains its officers at this academy in Colorado Springs, CO.
What Does It Take?
If you don’t know what it takes to be accepted into one of the military academies, I’ll say this. It’s a lot harder than being accepted to any other college.
Their academic standards are as high as many other prominent schools. Then you must also obtain letters of recommendation from a senator or congressman/congresswoman. So it’s not as easy as taking a college entrance exam, passing, and then deciding you want to attend West Point.
The Great Opportunity of Completing a Military Academy
If you’re fortunate enough to attend one of the military academies, then the true commitment begins after graduation. In most cases, you’ll have a 6-year military obligation to complete after graduation. This will include time on a ship, deployed overseas, being in an infantry unit, or flying a plane.
One of the best opportunities you’ll have happens after your military obligation is complete. From there you can decide on continuing your military career or moving on to civilian employment.
I can assure you, if you graduate from one of the military academies, you’ll have a good life ahead of you. Either in the military or employment in the civilian world.
Think Ahead and Make a Decision
You should make a decision early on in high school. If you want to attend one of the military academies, it takes a lot of commitment and you must do well in order to be accepted into one of the military academies.
Do yourself a favor. Add in some extracurricular activities because the academies will look at the whole person and not just the student.
So if you decide you want to attend college and join the military, then set out to do both. Make the best out of your military career and give yourself the best opportunity for success.
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