How to Prepare for West Point
The United States Military Academy, located in West Point, New York, is designed to develop cadets to become leaders in the United States Army. The education extends beyond academics to include moral and physical challenges as well. As a result of its mission, West Point is very different from a civilian college. Any student entering West Point should be prepared for its unique challenges.
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Instructions
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Take college-prep classes throughout high school. Take four years of English as well as advanced math and science classes. The course load at West Point is heavy, and the other students are very bright.
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Be ready for science and math. Today's army is very technical, and West Point needs to ensure all graduates (not just the engineering majors) can work in a technical environment. All cadets graduate with a Bachelor of Science Degree, regardless of major.
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Get in shape physically. Prepare with conditioning exercises such as sit-ups, pull-ups and push-ups as well as running. Cadets are expected to be in shape when they arrive.
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Stay active in extracurricular activities. Time-management skills are vital at West Point. The more practice you get in high school, the better off you will be.
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Take on leadership roles at work, school or on teams. Learn how to deal with problems that arise in these roles. West Point exists to educate leaders. "Duty, Honor, Country" is more than a slogan.
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Visit West Point if possible. Nothing provides a better idea of what the experience is like than seeing it first hand. Talk to recent graduates about their experiences.
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Learn about the Army. The more you know about tanks, artillery, infantry, career opportunities and military traditions, the less foreign everything will seem.
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Tips & Warnings
Be ready for rules and regulations. West Point is very structured.
West Point takes its Honor Code very seriously. Do not lie, cheat or steal.
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