Guidance on US Naval Academy letters of recommendation

I'm in the process of applying to the US Naval Academy and need advice on the letter of recommendation. Who should I ask for these letters, and what should the focus be to strengthen my application?

When it comes to letters of recommendation for the US Naval Academy, it is crucial to ask people who have seen your leadership, work ethic, resilience, teamwork skills, and potential for service in action, as these are qualities the academy greatly values.

A usual line-up includes teachers, coaches, a guidance counselor, clergy, or a community service supervisor. Your math or physics teacher can talk about your analytical skills and ability to handle rigorous coursework. English or humanities teachers can provide insight into your communication skills, critical thinking, and understanding of social issues - all crucial for a future naval officer.

If you held a leadership position in student government, a club, or a sports team, your advisor or coach would be a good choice as they have witnessed your engagement and leadership skills firsthand. Similarly, if you've been involved in community service or a job, someone who supervised your duties can attest to your sense of responsibility, work ethic, and service to others.

The Naval Academy also has an opportunity for a "peer" recommendation - a unique way to show your personal impact, congeniality, and team spirit. This should come from a classmate, teammate, or friend who knows you well and can give the admissions officers a glimpse into who you are from a peer's perspective.

A candidate's evaluation is not complete without a formal interview by a representative from the Naval Academy- the Blue and Gold Officer (BGO). The BGO will then submit an assessment that is also considered as a letter of recommendation.

When these individuals are writing their letters, remind them to focus on the characteristics that set you apart as a candidate for the Naval Academy. They should provide specific examples of when you demonstrated leadership, commitment to service, integrity, and teamwork. They should also make a case for why you would make a great midshipman and future officer in the US Navy or Marines.

Remember, your letters of recommendation should be from people who genuinely know you and can provide detailed insight into your character, abilities, and potential to thrive at the academy and serve the country. The more specific they can be about you, the better.