Coronado High School senior Saxton Sylvester was among 29 high school students nominated for appointment to a military service academy by U.S. Rep. Scott Peters, a Democrat who represents California’s 50th congressional district.
Sylvester was nominated for appointment to the United States Air Force Academy.
“I chose the Air Force out of all the academies because I like the fact that they have an emphasis on making and using new technology. They are always among the first to research and jump on new things,” he said. “My goal is either to fly helicopters or RPA’s (remotely piloted aircraft).”
He submitted his application last fall and interviewed with the congressman’s Academy Selection Board in December. Nominations were announced in January, and he received his official acceptance at the Air Force Academy on March 20.
A congressional nomination does not guarantee admittance to an academy, it’s just the first step.
“After you get a nomination, you still need to apply to the academy. I had to do a fitness test, write two more essays, and do another interview with Air Force Academy admissions,” he said.
Naval mom his mentor
Throughout the process, Saxton’s mom has been his mentor.
“She went to the Naval Academy, so she told me all about getting in and what it’s like going to an academy. We talked a lot about it before I made my decision,” he said.
Nominations are based on a ‘whole person’ evaluation, with factors such as academic achievement, extra-curricular activity, leadership skills, physical aptitude, character, motivation, and a personal interview.
In a statement releasing the names of the nominees, Peters said: “This group of exceptional students from San Diego will continue our local military and veteran history. The parents of these nominees should be extremely proud of the extraordinary, service-minded, and patriotic young Americans they have raised. Congratulations to all.”
Saxton plays varsity football, track, and rugby for the Islanders and has attended Coronado schools since kindergarten. He has two older sisters who are currently attending college and law school.
