After returning from a recent tour of multiple universities, Meghan O'Malley ('16) shared her insights on the culture of the United States Naval Academy with the ATA College Prep community. In a follow-up interview, Meghan was kind enough to offer specific advice to fellow students who might be interested in applying to this prestigious institution. Her words paint a picture of an education devoted to the values of teamwork, service, and patriotism in Annapolis, Maryland.
What was the most exciting thing(s) about your trip?
Meeting new people in different places, and getting to see what the different schools are and their atmospheres.
Did you find out anything surprising on your visit?
Every single summer, for 8 weeks the cadets get to experience things like getting to work on ships, jump out of helicopters, and experience almost all of the job options in the Navy.
Do you have any interesting stories from your trip, or did you hear any good stories from other people along the way?
Everything is given to you. One of the girls on the [tennis] team was describing how she came to the Naval Academy with nothing. They give you everything you think that you would need. She even got a stapler and the staples to go in it . . . .
What was the most valuable lesson that you learned on this trip?
People are there because they want to be a part of something bigger than themselves, and everyone has each other’s back there because the whole academy is one big team.
If you could give a recommendation to your friends interested in applying to this school, what would it be?
To apply to this school, you would have to want to serve your country. You would also have to be selfless because they are one big team, and they believe selfish people won’t make it there, and you have to WANT to be there if you’re going to survive.