New Hartford juniors Alexandria French and Felicia Huang were selected among thousands of students from across the country to participate in the West Point Summer Leaders Experience. To be chosen, students have to be among the top five-percent of their class, submit standardized test scores, and show that they participate in a variety of extracurricular activities.
The weeklong immersion is led by current West Point cadets. It helps students who are interested in attending the military academy explore the school’s educational facilities, team-building athletic activities, and realistic military training.
“My favorite part of the experience was witnessing the sheer quality of camaraderie and support by fellow candidate cadets,” said Alex.
“One thing that really stuck out to me was the camaraderie of the environment,” agreed Felicia. “There was a big emphasis on holding each other accountable and staying together.”
Both students said the experience taught them lessons that will stick with them as they finish their time at New Hartford. The experience instilled qualities such as discipline and work ethic that students can carry with them as they continue their education.
“I loved the atmosphere and its emphasis on raising students to their best potential,” added Alex.
Both Alex and Felicia said the program helped confirm they were on the right future path.