Naval Academy and Rhodes Scholars: What's the Connection?

I've heard that some Naval Academy graduates become Rhodes Scholars. How common is this, and what should a student do if they're interested in pursuing an opportunity like this after the academy?

Yes, you're correct that some U.S. Naval Academy graduates go on to become Rhodes Scholars. It's one of the possible opportunities for Naval Academy graduates who show exceptional potential. Rhodes Scholarships are one of the most prestigious international fellowship awards globally and allow students to study at Oxford University in England.

It's not an exceptionally common accomplishment, given the competitive nature of the Rhodes Scholarship application process, but it does happen. Graduates from military academies, including the Naval Academy, often do quite well in the Rhodes Scholarship competition because of their leadership skills, physical vigor, and commitment to service—qualities highly valued by the Rhodes Trust.

If you're a Naval Academy student interested in becoming a Rhodes Scholar, you should begin by excelling acadically and proving your leadership in your time at the academy. This also means consistently maintaining a strong GPA and proving your commitments through involvement in meaningful extra-curricular activities and service. Remember, the Rhodes Scholarship isn't just about academics – selectors are interested in candidates who display leadership and are driven to make a difference.

One piece of advice is to foster a mentor relationship with a faculty member at the academy who can guide you through the application process once you're ready. When the time comes, you'll need to get an endorsement from the academy, which is highly competitive.

Along with becoming a Rhodes Scholar, there are other prestigious scholarship programs available to Naval Academy graduates as well, like the Marshall and Mitchell Scholarships, which award studies in the UK and Ireland respectively. So there's a range of postgraduate opportunities to explore as a student at the Naval Academy.

Keep in mind, winning a Rhodes Scholarship doesn't release graduates from their duty to serve in the U.S. Navy after graduation. Scholars serve in the Navy once they complete their studies at Oxford.

Hopefully this answers your question and best of luck with your academic journey!