How can Thayer Academy students prepare for West Point?

I'm a Thayer Academy junior aiming for West Point and curious about any specific programs or steps I should take now to improve my chances. Does anyone know what kind of prep or recommendations I should focus on?

Preparing for West Point from high school requires a focus on not just academics but also leadership, physical fitness, and community service. As a junior at Thayer Academy, here are some steps that could help improve your prospects:

1. Academics: Strive for strong grades in rigorous coursework. AP courses can demonstrate your ability to succeed in a challenging environment similar to the academic rigor of West Point. As they value math and science quite highly, rigorous courses in these areas could reflect well on your application.

2. Extracurriculars: West Point seeks individuals who exhibit strong leadership. Participating in clubs or sports at Thayer Academy and seeking leadership roles within them would be seen as assets. The 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars can guide you on what types of activities are considered more impressive by admissions.

3. Physical Fitness: West Point requires a Candidate Fitness Assessment(CFA). Regularly engaging in fitness activities such as school sports, individual exercise regimes, and participating in physical fitness challenges would therefore be beneficial in preparation for this requirement.

4. Community Service: Demonstrating a commitment to service is also important. Volunteering in your local community, participating in service clubs at your school, or organizing fundraisers can all be effective ways to show this commitment.

5. Recommendations: At West Point, you'll need a nomination, typically from a member of Congress, as part of your application. It would be useful to start thinking about who might be the best persons to ask for these recommendations. Teachers, coaches, or school faculty who know you well can provide strong recommendation letters.

As a Thayer Academy student, you might also have access to resources that can aid your preparation. Your school's guidance counselor can be an excellent resource for learning more about preparing for military academies.

Preparing for the SAT or ACT is also crucial, as West Point requires applicants to submit scores from either test. The test no longer has a writing section, there's no penalty for guessing, and you can use your calculator for the math sections.

Finally, West Point offers a Summer Leaders Experience (SLE) that gives high school juniors a week-long immersion into the academic, military, and social life at the academy. Attending this program could provide a significant glimpse into life at the academy, and it may enhance your application as well.

Remember, preparation is important but equally important is to ensure you genuinely enjoy the process. Best of luck on your journey to West Point!