As a Right C3 coach, I recently had the opportunity to visit the United States Naval Academy. Commonly referred to as “The Yard,” the Naval Academy has been a mainstay for anyone looking to jump start their potential military career since 1845.
This historic 338-acre campus is located in Annapolis, Maryland, perched along Chesapeake Bay. It is here that students begin their journey toward becoming United States Navy and Marine Corps officers. Students, referred to as “Midshipmen,” are inducted with a military oath on their very first day. All midshipmen are held to the same exacting standards as the United States Navy and Marine Corps.
Freshmen are exposed to classes in military orientation, etiquette, character development, seamanship, small arms, and physical training. Midshipmen also receive courses in naval science and leadership, seminars on officer development, and hands-on experience with basic ship handling on board yard patrol craft. Each subsequent year after their freshman year, midshipmen also get to experience a cruise aboard a surface ship or submarine.
In addition to the stringent military preparation and physical fitness requirements, midshipmen are also held to very high academic standards. The Naval Academy prides itself on the quality of education, and the quality of character that it produces. Often ranked as the top Liberal Arts College in the U.S., the Academy also routinely secures high rankings for its engineering programs and overall best college score. The Academy provides a top-level education and unparalleled military preparation, and it doesn’t cost a dime. That’s right, it doesn’t cost any money; just a commitment. All tuition, housing and expenses are paid for by the U.S. government in exchange for a 5 year military service commitment.
This free, top tier level education does not come easy though. Military academies have acceptance rates that rival Ivy League schools. With over 17,000 applicants, only about 1,200 students receive appointments to join the Naval Academy. They look for students who have been heavily involved in extracurricular and leadership activities, in addition to high academic marks. On top of that, students wanting to attend the Naval Academy must receive an official nomination. These nominations typically come from local Congress representatives, Senators, and even the Vice President! These nominations are very limited and very difficult to obtain. Any student seeking entrance to a military academy should ask each available person and start as early as possible.
This beautiful campus is open to the public and tours are available daily. If you are unable to visit the campus, you can always contact the admissions office at the Academy for more information. The United States Naval Academy is an amazing place to get an excellent education and challenge oneself in all aspects. To discuss the Naval Academy or any potential military options, contact your Right C3 coaches today!
