College Counseling Director visits USMA at West Point

Mrs. Amanda Miller, our Director of College Counseling, was honored to experience a world of tradition, discipline, and academic excellence during a recent Educators Visit to the United States Military Academy West Point. She was humbled to be selected to join a distinguished group of educators from around the nation, each recognized as influential leaders within their respective scope of work.  

Mrs. Miller shares reflections about her experience:

This experience was a highlight of my career. Throughout my three days at West Point, I was exposed to the four pillars (Academics, Character, Physical, and Military) that make West Point one of the most distinguished institutions in the country. My colleagues and I received an in-depth academic briefing from the Vice Dean of Academic Affairs, which provided a detailed look into the rigorous and holistic curriculum all Cadets will embark upon. What stood out was the emphasis on moral and ethical development, which is embedded in every aspect of the West Point experience. Each Cadet will be challenged in their own way yet will undoubtedly grow into the best version of themselves.  

I also had time to engage in focused conversations with West Point’s Admissions Team. The Admissions Team detailed the rigorous selection process, emphasizing not just academic competitiveness but also the qualities of leadership, physical excellence, and commitment to service that define successful candidates.

One of the most memorable moments came during dinner with West Point Commandant Major General Lori L. Robinson. She shared insights into leading one of the nation’s premier institutions. Her passion for shaping the next generation of leaders and her commitment to the values of duty, honor, and country were incredibly inspiring.  

A highlight of the visit was reconnecting with a member of our Brother Rice community, Eamon Mott ‘ 20. Eamon is a senior at West Point majoring in Mechanical Engineering. He has found much success during his life-changing experience as a Cadet and is preparing to graduate later this spring. We are immensely proud of Eamon’s success and grateful for his service to our country.

Reflecting back, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced West Point firsthand. I was able to engage in meaningful dialogue with colleagues from across the country, which is always reinvigorating as we return to our own roles. More importantly, I walked away with an entirely new appreciation for the commitment and determination US Service Academy Cadets embody every day.