Alumni Blog
“Two hots and a cot – all is good.”
Posted April 10th, 2015
United States Air Force Academy Cadet and 2013 Prep graduate, Kyle Brandt spoke to a dozen aspiring military academy students. During an in-depth conversation over lunch, Cadet Brandt generously offered many details of his experience thus far, provided extensive advice on applying to a military academy, and discussed the rigors along with the attributes of an academy education.
Applying to the United States Air Force Academy is a considerably involved process. There are many steps and important deadlines to meet, and just applying to an Academy requires focus and determination. Brandt fondly credits the school for keeping him on task and academically preparing him well, as he was the first non-native speaker of Arabic to validate both 100 level Arabic courses. “A college guidance department that will bleed your blood, cry your tears, and smile your successes,” says Brandt as he encouraged the students to utilize the resources that surround them while being at St. Augustine Prep.
The attentive 12 Prep students focused intensely on the presentation slide that read “Big Ticket Items,” which covered key objectives to consider when deciding to apply.
The first point, be physically fit. Fitness matters and as a cadet at the United States Air Force Academy, you will take physical fitness tests each semester to measure your overall strength and conditioning. For men, that means in order to achieve a maximum point total, 21 pull-ups, 8’0” long jump, 95 crunches, 72 push-ups, and a time of 1:35 in a 600 yard run.
Second, be motivated. Know your reasons for why you want to be at the Academy. The reasons why you want to stay will be found on your journey.
Thirdly, understand you will no longer be an individual. Your strengths are for the benefit of the team. Your weaknesses is to the detriment of the team. Work together to minimize the weakness and maximize the strengths.
“Kyle knew early on that the United States Air Force Academy was his destination of choice. He prepared himself to the best of his abilities, stayed focused, and with determination and honor, he succeeded in being accepted. There is no doubt, Kyle will continue to soar,” says Mrs. Brooke Coyle, Director of College Guidance.
