These teens are ready to trade in civilian life for military life.
Five Idaho high school graduates from across the state are hanging up their street clothes for the Navy’s blue and gold uniforms, as they move to Annapolis, Md., this month to attend the U.S. Naval Academy.
Nearly 16,000 students from across the nation applied for one of 1,165 appointments to the Naval Academy’s Class of 2022. In Idaho, 55 students applied.
The admissions process requires each student to apply for and receive a nomination from their congressman or senator, complete a medical and physical fitness exam, submit transcripts, recommendations and essays. Screening is thorough, with a focus on well-rounded individuals who have demonstrated leadership potential and a willingness to accept responsibility, as well as outstanding academic credentials.
An appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy is equivalent to a full four-year scholarship valued at nearly $450,000 including tuition, room and board, medical and dental benefits and a monthly midshipman salary. After completing the four-year curriculum at the Naval Academy, students receive a bachelor of science degree in one of 25 majors and earn a commission as an officer in the United States Navy or Marine Corps.
Take a look at the five students who are headed to Maryland.
Jamison Julian, a graduate of Nampa’s Columbia High School
Sponsored by: Rep. Raul Labrador, Sen. Mike Crapo and Sen. Jim Risch
Grade-point average: 4.2
SAT score: 1430 out of 1500
Major: Oceanography
Dream Job: Fighter Pilot, Astronaut or U.S. Ambassador
Why did you apply to the U.S. Naval Academy? The Naval Academy offers an unparalleled opportunity to pursue leadership, service and adventure with no monetary cost.
What do you hope to gain from the U.S. Naval Academy? Leadership is my passion — I know I will be a better leader and person graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy than I would be at any other institution.
Joey Gibbs, a graduate of Kellogg High school
Sponsored by: Sen. Mike Crapo and Sen. Jim Risch 
Grade-point average: 3.6
SAT score: 1300 out of 1500
Major: Aerospace engineering
Dream Job: Become a pilot in the Navy serving for at least 20 years and then become a commercial pilot or working as a contractor to design and build more advanced aircraft.
Why did you apply to the U.S. Naval Academy? To fulfill my lifelong dreams of becoming a pilot and serving in the military.
What do you hope to gain from the U.S. Naval Academy? I hope to gain a set of skills that will not only prepare me for my life ahead, but to allow me to become successful in every avenue that my life chooses to take for me. Whether it be mental or physical obstacles or determination sticking through a project to the end.
Damien Stonhill, a gradate of Hillcrest High School in Ammon
Grade-point average: 4.35
ACT score: 32 out of 36
Major: Aeronautical engineering
Dream Job: I hope to go into aviation both in the Navy and in the Civilian career field.
Why did you apply to the U.S. Naval Academy? I want to serve, but also take the most difficult path towards service. The challenges of receiving an appointment and completing the four-year program offer opportunities for personal growth and improvement that appealed to me.
What do you hope to gain from the U.S. Naval Academy? I would like to become a better person and gain skills that will lead to a successful career in both the Navy and in the civilian world.
Landon Nurge, a gradate of Wood River High School
Grade-point average: 4.0
ACT score: 31 out of 36
Major: Chemistry or electrical engineering
Dream Job: Flying fighter jets on carriers.
Why did you apply to the U.S. Naval Academy? The overall challenge of the Naval Academy was very appealing to me, as well as the amazing opportunity to be able to serve and graduate through one of the best schools.
What do you hope to gain from the U.S. Naval Academy? I hope I can be shaped into a leader and can take these insights with me throughout my life.
Dutton Roger, a graduate of Sandpoint High School, will also attend the U.S. Naval Academy.
