Each year, the Air Force Academy looks for well-rounded applicants with these qualities: excellent academics; strong leadership skills; and strong athletic ability. Current Worthington Christian senior Stephen Barlow fit these standards and was nominated by state congressman Pat Tiberi, receiving a valued scholarship worth $400,000 to attend the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.Stephen started the long process at the beginning of his senior year by filling out online questionnaires just like those any other college would offer. Then, Stephen had to receive a congressional nomination: this is achieved by writing an essay and having an interview with state congress board members. For the application itself, Stephen was required to write three short essays about 300 words long and complete a physical fitness test, which consisted of push-ups, sit-ups, and various other exercises.
Congressman Pat Tiberi nominated Stephen, taking him by surprise: “I was not sure if it was going to happen,” exclaimed Stephen; “actually, I did not think it was going to happen, but it did!”
Stephen’s interest in applying to the Academy started with WCHS teacher Mr. Pifer: “Mr. Pifer is the one that got me interested; I wanted to do something bigger than just a normal college; something that helps other people, not just myself.” Mr. Pifer is a civilian liaison officer that represents Worthington Christian High School for the Academy.
Attending the Air Force Academy is a huge commitment, and would take a lot of Stephens’s time. Basic training starts June 25, so he would not be able to have a summer. Basic training lasts six weeks long, and he would undergo this twice. After basic training, he would attend actual school at the Academy for four years just like a normal college. Once Stephen graduates, he would have to serve about five to nine years; Stephen hopes to be a pilot, which requires serving for a minimum of nine years.The Air Force Academy is not Stephen’s only choice; he was also offered a full- ride to the Ohio State University. He is still making his decision and as of the moment he feels “right down the middle,” but is leaning towards OSU. The major reasons why he would not go to the Academy would be due to the distance from Ohio and the huge commitment he would have for the rest of his life.
If Stephen does choose to go to the Academy, he would be a lot farther from home and away from his family most of the time. He would be able to visit for Thanksgiving and Christmas, though.
Stephen has had a lot of support from his family as well in making the right decision. His mother, like most moms, is very worried about the whole idea of Stephen being gone for such a long period of time; however, she will support him in whatever he does choose. On the other hand, Stephen’s dad is very excited, and encourages him to make whatever decision he wants.
On April 14th and 15th, Stephen will be taking a visit to the Air Force Academy in Colorado with his dad. The Academy will pay for the trip out there for Stephen’s family. Stephen is “pretty stressed” about the visit and making his final decision. “It’s hard to make a decision that will affect the next 15 years of the rest of your life,” says Stephen.
Students and teachers from WCHS support Stephen in his decision, as well. Mr. Pifer has had Stephen as a student for over two years and thinks that “It is a great opportunity: and I admire him for desiring for a high academic standard for himself, but also to serve his country.” Stephen’s younger brother Johnny says “I think it is really cool and a great opportunity, but I would miss my brother; we’re pretty close.”
