Undergraduate / USNA Candidate essay - to achieve my dreams of serving in the navy [3]

Why do you want to attend the Naval Academy?
What are your long term and short term goals? (250 words or less)

Growing up with parents of Nepali descent who moved to America for opportunity allowed me to realize what this country has to offer. One can only imagine living in a country without freedom and possibility. I grew up in a small town with minimal diversity. My first exposure to diversity was when I traveled to Nepal; I saw the poverty, economic downfall, and child labor. The major differences between Nepal and America allowed me to appreciate the liberty I have at home.

Since I have had the privilege of growing up in America, I feel that it is my duty to devote my life to one of service. I desire to protect my family, my country, and my home. Unlike most civilian universities, service academies challenge their students and give them a sense of purpose and dedication to this country.

I am passionate and enthusiastic about attending a military academy because it prepares one morally, mentally, and physically and I am up for that challenge. Attending the academy will allow me to extend my dedication to this country in order to serve to the best of my abilities. Becoming a Naval Officer would allow me to show my integrity, as it is essential in the military to show one's strength amongst the others. I believe that I have what it takes to achieve my dreams of serving in the navy and reaching my ultimate goal of securing this country.

Undergraduate / What are the most important qualities in becoming a successful USMA cadet? 250-500 words [2]

Although there are many factors that weigh heavily in order to becoming a successful cadet, the most important qualities that an officer in the army requires are commitment and integrity. A potential cadet must already have these values instilled in them before being admitted to the academy. Integrity, being one of the seven core army values, promises a life of moral principles without compromise. I define integrity as executing the right actions, keeping ones morals in mind at all times, in the civilian and military world. The dedication to a life of service that a cadet must abide to requires being whole and undivided under any circumstances.

A USMA cadet is meant to grow into a leader during their time in the academy; commitment and integrity are primary elements of the military, which must be carried out through any military missions and are the sure signs of a commanding officer. When one becomes a part of the army, the cadet will inevitably be faced with situations that question their personal integrity; the cadet will have to choose between right and wrong, regardless of the consequences. An officer conducts his or her own life with sincerity in every dilemma that they face. One must devote their time in service to one of honesty and ethical behavior, always keeping these principles because they are critical characteristics of a military officer.

In order to lead a life as an officer requires one to live by the basic concept of the honor code as a daily mantra. One must be committed to a life of honesty and fairness, demonstrating the integrity and commitment a cadet has to the army. I believe commitment is the most basic principle in the army because one has to perform each action whole-heartedly even if it puts ones own life in danger. Being a dedicated cadet means taking on duties and responsibilities, not doing the bare minimum but completing these tasks with one's utmost potential. These qualities are critical in order to be an accomplished officer and are valued immensely to lead a professional life in the army. Once a cadet proves his or her commitment and loyalty to a life in the military, it ensues the becoming of a successful cadet.