West Point Struggles to Fill Ranks

Qualified candidates dwindling

By Alexa James
Times Herald
WEST POINT — While the volume of applications to the U.S. Military Academy is on the rise, the number of qualified contenders to choose from is shrinking.
The reason for the disparity isn't grades or test scores or extracurricular accolades. The problem is physical fitness: An increasing number of applicants are out of shape or taking potentially disqualifying medications for conditions such as asthma or attention-deficit disorder.
"The youth in America are becoming heavier and heavier and, in some cases, obese," said Col. Deborah McDonald, West Point's director of admissions.WEST POINT — While the volume of applications to the U.S. Military Academy is on the rise, the number of qualified contenders to choose from is shrinking.

Her office has received more than 11,000 applications for the Class of 2013. That's 10 percent more than last year. Still, McDonald has concerns about filling the ranks. Last year, fewer than 2,000 met West Point's standards. "I do see a problem," she said, considering West Point will extend offers to as many as 1,600 applicants.Her office has received more than 11,000 applications for the Class of 2013. That's 10 percent more than last year. Still, McDonald has concerns about filling the ranks. Last year, fewer than 2,000 met West Point's standards. "I do see a problem," she said, considering West Point will extend offers to as many as 1,600 applicants.
The reason for the disparity isn't grades or test scores or extracurricular accolades. The problem is physical fitness: An increasing number of applicants are out of shape or taking potentially disqualifying medications for conditions such as asthma or attention-deficit disorder.
"The youth in America are becoming heavier and heavier and, in some cases, obese," said Col. Deborah McDonald, West Point's director of admissions.

West Point's student body of about 4,400 cadets balances a high-pressure mix of academic and military training. Cadets pursue bachelor's degrees on par with those of the Ivy League while training for five-year commitments as Army officers. Tuition — worth about $202,000 over four years — is free in exchange for service.
In tough economic times, it's not unusual for West Point to garner more interest, but to increase its presence among America's best and brightest, the Academy is implementing a host of changes to make its grueling, 18-month application process easier to complete.
Next year, the entire application will be available online. West Point is also retooling its Web site with new recruiting videos, including one targeting minority students.
The Class of 2013 has attracted larger numbers of minority applicants. Hispanic candidates are up 9 percent, and the African-American pool, which has been West Point's biggest challenge, is also increasing.
Admissions officials worked hard last year to build stronger relationships among minority members of Congress. The application requires a nomination from a senator or representative, so West Point staff met with minority caucus members on Capitol Hill to discuss the process. The face-time seemed to work.
"Our African-American nominations are up by 15 percent and congressional black caucus nominations are up by 50 percent," McDonald said.
West Point has begun extending offers of admission for the Class of 2013. Pine Bush senior Opeyemi Ifafore, 17, is among hundreds waiting for word.
"It's a great education," she said. West Point's discipline and leadership training is the experience she's looking for. "I know it's going to be tough," she said. "It's worth it."
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