La Sierra High School's Military Academy

Has anyone attended the military academy at La Sierra High School? Looking for pros and cons from those who actually experienced it.

While I did not personally attend the Military Academy at La Sierra High School, as a college admissions counselor, I have worked with many students who have graduated from it. Below are some pros and cons they have shared based on their collective experiences.

Pros:

1. Career preparation: Many students said the program prepared them for career paths in the military by teaching discipline, integrity, and leadership.

2. Academics: The curriculum is rigorous and helps students build a strong academic foundation.

3. Physical Activity: Regular drills and practices can make you physically fit and active, providing a valuable balance to academics.

4. Leadership Development: The program offers numerous opportunities for students to step into leadership roles and develop their personal leadership style.

5. Community: The camaraderie among cadets can be profound. Many described the classmates from their time in the program as lifelong friends.

Cons:

1. Time demanding: The program can be time-consuming with its demands including early morning hair inspections, uniform days, and other special activities. This can result in less time for non-military extracurriculars or part-time jobs.

2. Rigour: The rigorous nature of the program can be challenging for some, both physically and mentally.

3. Pressure: The intense focus on discipline and structure might not align with everyone’s personality or learning preferences.

4. Lack of Flexibility: Due to the nature of the program, there is less flexibility to explore subjects outside of the program’s focus.

It’s important to consider these factors when deciding if this program is the right fit for you. While it can offer an enriching, focused environment, it also involves a significant time commitment and particular style of learning. As always, it's best to visit the school, talk to current and former attendees, and make the choice that best aligns with your personal goals and learning style.