Sen. Rand Paul hosts service academy fair

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) — Students interested in attending one of the nation’s military service academies gathered Thursday night at Western Kentucky University’s Knicely Conference Center for U.S. Sen. Rand Paul’s annual Service Academy Information Fair.

The event brought together students, parents and representatives from the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine academies. Families also had the chance to learn more about Paul’s nomination process.

What makes a strong candidate

Angela Pace, Paul’s director of constituent services, said successful applicants typically combine strong academics with leadership and extracurricular involvement.

“They test high with their A.C.T. and their S.A.T. scores. They also tend to be, I think in some, you know, they’re involved in sports of some nature. They’re also leaders in the community, various clubs,” Pace said. “And so we’re looking for leaders and well-rounded candidates that, you know, they have it all.”

Pace said a service academy education also gives students the chance to grow as leaders and prepare to become commissioned officers in the U.S. military.

She said the fair helps families hear directly from academy representatives while learning when and how to seek a nomination through Paul’s office.

Paul speaks to students

Paul also addressed students during the event, calling it an exciting time as they make decisions about their future.

“It’s an exciting, you know, time in your life when you’re making these decisions,” Paul said. “You know what’s going to happen. You don’t control all of them, but I think it’s exciting to be in the process.”

He described the experience as a milestone students may remember well into adulthood.

“But it is a rite of passage and it’s a big part of what you always remember about the beginning of your adult life,” Paul said. “And we wish you well with that.”