How can I best prepare for a military college?

Hey, I've been contemplating going to a military college after high school. What should I be doing now - in terms of academics, athletics, leadership - to make sure I'm prepared?

Preparing for a military college requires rigorous planning and builds upon your academic ability, physical fitness, and leadership skills.

Starting with academics, you'll need to excel in high school and focus on a strong grade point average (GPA). Not only will this improve your chances of acceptance, but it will also prepare you for the challenging coursework at military academies. Courses in mathematics and English are particularly important, but a well-rounded academic portfolio can demonstrate your wider skill set. Also, considering that these institutions are often technical in nature, advanced coursework in the sciences, such as AP Physics or Chemistry, can put you in a good position. Many military colleges, like the Naval Academy and West Point, also require the SAT or ACT, so you'll want to plan for standardized test preparation—starting with taking the PSAT/NMSQT early in your high school career.

Physical fitness is a hallmark of military service and therefore a key component to preparing for a military college. You should participate in athletic activities consistently, focusing on endurance (running), strength (push-ups), and agility (sports). An excellent way to demonstrate this commitment is by participating in a varsity sports team or, even better, captaining a team.

Leadership is equally critical. Military colleges aim to create officers, which requires strong leadership skills. They look for applicants who have demonstrated this trait in their high school years. That may mean securing elected positions in student government, leading clubs or initiatives, or being named captain of an athletic team. Working a part-time job, especially in a supervisor role, can also display maturity, responsibility, and leadership.

Finally, though not a formal requirement, exploring and understanding military life beforehand will put you in a better position both for your application process and for meeting the expectations once enrolled. This could involve speaking to veterans or current members of the military, attending a summer program at a military academy, or even joining a Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) program at your high school, if it's available.

Remember, each military college may have specific admission requirements, and it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the criteria and expectations of your chosen institutions well in advance. Preparation leads to success, so strategize early in your high school career and stick to your plan. Military college is a significant commitment and preparing adequately for such a challenging yet rewarding path shows not only commitment but also capacity for future success.