MHS cadet takes West Point offer

Faced with the choice between U.S. military academies that had accepted her, Maricopa High School graduating senior Dylan Hill announced her decision this month.

 

“I chose West Point because I view it as an excellent institution for teaching people how to lead and, in addition, has a wide array of things to study and participate in,” she said.

 

Hill had also been accepted into the Naval Academy.

 

“Overall, I think that this school will challenge me greatly, whether through tough academics or military training, helping me to gain experiences to draw upon once I become an officer,” she said.

 

The U.S. Military Academy at West Point was established in 1802. To be accepted, applicants must meet academic, leadership and physical requirements and receive a nomination from a member of Congress. Hill was nominated by U.S. Rep. Tom O’Halleran.

 

Hill has been a leader in the MHS Air Force Junior ROTC.

 

“I have been physically preparing for cadet life and training by expanding my physical training schedule and increasing intensity,” Hill said. “But overall the best preparation I have done is multitasking and maintaining things like grades, work, and extracurriculars since West Point is known to challenge one’s ability to manage time effectively.”

 

Hill will be the second MHS graduate in two years to be accepted into West Point. Cadet John Blodgett just finished his first year.