In today’s post, I want to make sure you know the difference between a “nomination” and an “appointment” to a service academy. These terms can sometimes be confusing and are often used interchangeably.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

When you apply to a service academy (with the exception of the Coast Guard Academy), you must receive what’s called a nomination. 

Nominations are pre-screening tools used by the service academies to help them make admissions...

This week, I wanted to share a story that reveals a lot about why so many service academy graduates feel such affection toward their college experience despite its rigors and hardships. 

You may have heard of a gentleman named Jim Collins. Jim Collins is a world-renowned speaker, thinker, and management guru. He is also a professor at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. He has started companies, written books, and advised some of the most influential leaders in the world. 

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Last week, I reviewed what motivates some students to pursue service academy appointments and ROTC scholarships. 

For some, it was a call to serve, others wanted world-class leadership training, international travel, personal challenge, real-world experience, or the generous financial assistance. 

If these reasons weren’t so compelling, not many students (or parents) would be willing to endure what it takes to get to the finish line. 

Applying to one of these programs is...

Over the last few weeks, we’ve reviewed the basics of the service academies and ROTC programs.

This week, I’d like to do a side-by-side comparison of the two options so you can start to appreciate their similarities and differences.

Despite the differences, these programs can be so competitive that it’s often a good idea to pursue both options at the same time.

SIMILARITIES

The biggest similarity between service academies and ROTC programs is that once you graduate from...