BAUMHOLDER, Germany - For most teens, college life brings to mind images of campus parties, long leisurely weekends and a renewed sense of freedom and independence. But for Steven Billington Jr., a cadet at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, life at one of the most prestigious military universities in the world is an entirely different experience.
It is a portrait filled with a disciplined curriculum, early morning physical training and a strict code of honor. It is a lifestyle Billington has grown to love, a lifestyle that has given him a defined sense of purpose and a new definition of what it means to reach beyond the limits.
Billington spoke to Baumholder Middle High School juniors on May 14 as part of a series of presentations for schools and education centers throughout Europe to discuss admissions, cadet life and summer training.
The Kaiserslautern native said it was a privilege to return to Baumholder’s high school, where he graduated as co-valedictorian, and share his academic experiences with fellow students.
“It’s an invaluable opportunity to be able to come back and discuss all of the opportunities that lie ahead of them,” Billington said. “It’s never too early to start planning for the future, and I’m here today as an advocate for good education.”
As a second year cadet, Billington said he was initially motivated to apply for the academy after observing a West Point graduate and feeling inspired by his sense of character. Billington felt compelled to explore his options. He then completed an intensive application process, including phone interviews, and managed to secure presidential and senatorial nominations in his favor.
“Each application that the academy receives is carefully reviewed,” Billington said to the roomful of students.
“Your SAT scores are important, but it’s also important to distinguish yourselves as leaders and make your application stand out. Consider volunteering in the community and do what it takes to show that you are a person and not just an application.”
Billington noted that West Point’s academic reputation is upheld through its teachers since many of them are also West Point graduates.
“The instructors know us and they understand us, because they have walked in our shoes,” said Billington.
Several students in the audience posed questions on the daily operational tempo at the academy.
Billington candidly described his first six weeks of training from a civilian to a new cadet as “overwhelming,” stating that it involved both physical and mental endurance.
“It was a challenge. There were several times when I looked in the mirror and questioned my abilities,” he said. “But I kept going and each day got easier. I wanted to prove that I could handle it. It made me mature, and I felt like I was doing something with my life.”
Billington entertained students with scenarios of his first year as a cadet: the use of elevators was forbidden, breakfast was limited to 10 minutes and personal cars were not allowed on campus.
“All of these things (elevators and cars) made me realize what things in my life are a privilege and what things are a right,” he said.
Billington said he has no regrets and is only looking ahead. “The academy is truly a school for leadership,” he said. “It’s good, solid training. I learned how to become a leader from following high military standards, and I am a better person because of it.”
Social Sharing