The Naval Academy Candidate Book: How to Prepare, How to Get In, How to Survive

by Sue Ross

New 3rd edition. A how-to book for young men and women interested in attending the Naval Academy, this book tells you how to prepare mentally, physically, and academically. The book walks you through the very involved application process, and tells you what to expect during the first year if you do get in. Includes advice for athletes, women, minorities, and a special section for parents.

192 pages, Paperback

First published January 18, 2008

Reviews

[Jacqui · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a great starter when you are considering the Naval Academy. It provides a solid overview of the Academy, how to prepare, how to get in and then how to survive if you are the less than 10% selected. I found it to be a factual, if dated discussion that covered the broad strokes for those who are considering the Naval Academy. It is written from the perspective of the professors at the Academy (their advice to wanna-bes) and students who have attended.

The reason I only gave it a three was for what wasn't in it--problems faced in the application process, how to get past roadblocks, who is most likely to be accepted there (so students can see if this fits them). While it serves the stellar candidate quite well, I think the student who wonders if they have what it takes will finish the book still wondering.

[Andrew Penca · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read this book over a period of six months. After reading Ross's Air Force Academy Candidate book I was not impressed yet I was not disappointed. The simple fact is that it was exactly the same as the Air Force book just including different buildings and names. As I discussed throughout my comments over the time span in which I completed this book, it simply dragged on too much. Most of the chapters and messages were the same as the previous book however, I still felt as though I gained an enormous amount of knowledge. After all, knowledge and understanding is what this book is used for so it was no surprise that it was not the most exciting book to undertake. Yet, a certain attitude of toughness and grit was portrayed throughout. I would only recommend this book if you haven't read any of the previous ones, otherwise there is no need.

In the last couple of chapters this book mimicked the previous one (Air Force Academy Candidate Book) however, some things were different. Most of the difference was displayed in the dialogue relating to traditions. For example, at the Naval Academy, before the hallowed Army (West Point) vs. Navy (Naval Academy) american football game; some of the Midshipmen paint the Tecumseh statue in all different styles from year to year. These include Native American war paint, Naval uniforms etc. However, it is not so much the tradition which amazes me, it is the length in which it lasted. This was well documented by Ross when she displays the seriousness at which this statue is taken. This attitude shows the true colors of the academy. A place in which all students are appreciative of what the institution stands for. These values being not only determination and ethical behavior, but also patriotism and respect. After all, these educational facilities are used to transform young American boys and girls into the men in women running the world's most powerful military in the world.

Other aspects of this book included the interviews with current Midshipmen and alumni explaining their journeys and what they learnt from them. I personally found these interviews and short paragraphs the most rewarding due to the fact that it is simply the truth. There is no twisting of this truth because these stories are their lives. Therefore, these have to be taken seriously and if anyone is curious to learn about the academy, I suggest looking into these perspectives to provide the best insight possible. Finally, the greatest thing I took from the interviews was the psychological battle that was described. The way the Midshipmen described training was astounding. They go through the toughest of physical challenges yet the mindset of each of them is key to their success. This is because not only are they facing a physical challenge but the four years of grueling academics that they will be put through is also an enormous obstacle. However, thinking about it now I realize that these four years of metaphorical torture are only so that they have the best chance of surviving while protecting our freedoms. It is truly amazing how motivated they are.

In conclusion, throughout the book there are interesting sections and boring sections however, I recommend you read all of them. Even if you do not want to attend the academy it is beneficial to see what these young men and women do to ensure we have freedom in our futures. Therefore, I recommend this book but only if you have not read its predecessors due to its heavy load of information.

[Deane Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

For anyone who wants to get into the Naval Academy, this is a MUST READ!! If possible get it during High School Freshman year and start acting on its advice immediately. HS Junior year is almost too late, but you can act on it even then.

[Silas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very helpful and informative guide that gave me great advice as I am about to commit to the Naval Academy. I strongly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in the Naval Academy.