USNA/want to go/grades not great!

[Anonymous]

I am a freshman in high school. I am struggling with school work, but love the military. I live in Annapolis. I am a member of the Sea Cadets and love everything about the military. I really want to go to the Naval Academy. What chance do I have of getting in with just OK grades? Do they ever admit people whose grades are not that great? I know it is very hard to get in especially in Maryland. How are the women midshipmen treated? I consider myself a well rounded person, am physically fit. I am reading everything I can about academy life. I would be a good officer. I will apply for ROTC as well, but the academy is my first choice. Any advice from USNA graduates on what I can do to increase my chances of getting an appointment?

LWalker@JELeanos.com

[Anonymous]

You sound very motivated which is a good start. However, the academy is very difficult to be accepted. Good grades are a must. I recommend hiring a tutor to help you throughout high school, visit your teachers before and after school for extra help, and study in groups if that helps. And study lots. I mean you should study hours everynight and on weekends. Remember you'll be studying that much at the academy and at which ever school you attend after the academy. You have plenty of time to bring your grades up. Don't give up your dreams for a problem with school work. But remember, if you don't make it to the academy, you can join ROTC as a scholarship midshipman or a college program midshipman. An officer from the academy isn't necessarily a better officer than those from ROTC or OCS.