When weighing his options for higher education, twelfth-grader Aravind Rajeev knew what he was looking for: opportunities for growth in his confidence and leadership skills, as well as the development of brotherhood with his peers. Rajeev found all this and more with the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point, where he will attend with the hopes of setting himself on a path toward a career in International Relations.
West Point’s application process was “long and grueling,” Rajeev said. After submitting his essays, Rajeev secured official nominations from both Congressman Vern Buchanan and Senator Rick Scott — a feat Rajeev noted to be rare. Rajeev later passed his Candidate Fitness Exam (CFA) under the guidance of his personal trainer, Heather Pollack-Rupp.
Over the course of one full year, Pollack-Rupp witnessed Rajeev’s physical and mental development; presently, she lauds him for his growth.
“He’s one of my favorite kids I’ll ever remember, always,” Pollack-Rupp said. “He puts in tons of effort and works so hard — you never have to ask him to do anything twice, no matter how painful or difficult.”
After receiving a letter of assurance (LOA) in the summer, Rajeev was extended an official acceptance to West Point in November.
“[Getting my acceptance] was a moment of happiness and relief. All the steps in the application process, they’re arduous—once you officially got it, it’s like, ‘Wow. This is amazing. This is such an achievement,’” Rajeev said. “Seeing it all come together was amazing, and my family, we celebrated once we heard the news.”
Rajeev also received an ROTC scholarship to Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service. Ultimately, the unique opportunities presented at West Point were what led to his commitment.
“The person you become after leaving West Point is someone you wouldn’t even believe. You wouldn’t believe that you could become that person, that leader with so much confidence and ability,” Rajeev said, speaking to what stood out to him about West Point.
Pollack-Rupp is excited to see all the future holds for Rajeev.
“The world is his oyster,” she said. “He can do anything he wants to. He’s going to be something spectacular. There’s not many people in the world like him, and we’re lucky to have him and know him.”
As the first member of his family to enter the military, Rajeev’s path following his time at West Point is currently uncertain, though he looks forward to making the most out of the opportunities he’s extended.
“The place we’re in the world right now, there are challenges. The people who commonly take on those challenges are the ones who’ve gone through them, and you see that in the characters of those who’ve been through service academies,” he said. “They take charge in challenging situations and support the general welfare for their peers, their countries, and everyone around. It’s exciting, though I know it’ll be tough… I can’t yet comprehend the person I’ll be, four years from now.”