KMXT 100.1 FM Public Radio in Kodiak, Alaska
One of Kodiak’s own has been nominated to attend the U-S Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
On Tuesday Senator Lisa Murkowski announced that Karsten Schick of Kodiak has made her list of 43 nominees for appointment to U-S military service academies.
In her announcement, Murkowski described the students as "stellar candidates who have demonstrated excellent leadership capabilities and strength of character."
Schick was selected as an academy nominee based on his academic record, extracurricular activities and potential for leadership.
The news of his nomination by the Alaskan senator was an early Christmas present for the Kodiak High School senior.
— (nomination 1 "It felt pretty … I got back.")
By his Sophomore or Junior year, Schick knew he wanted to attend the Air Force Academy. His interest was fueled in part by his friend Justin Blott who currently attends the 4-year officer training school. In order to apply to the school and to get Murkowski’s endorsement Schick first had to tackle a mountain of paperwork.
— (nomination 2 "Yeah, that’s a bit … 7 different sections.")
Last summer he attended a 2-week introductory program at the academy. There he got a taste of Academy classes and physical training. He also learned that a first year student is called a "dooley" which is the Roman word for slave.
— (nomination 3 "The last day … to be a doctor.")
Schick’s mother is Solveig Christenson. She said that service in the military is a family tradition.
— (nomination 4 "I’ve kind of … a different path.")
A nomination from Murkowski is a coveted distinction however it does not guarantee Schick admission in the fall. He’s now in competition with other candidates around the country for a space in the academy’s class of 2014. The Air Force Academy will make the final decision.
In the meantime, Schick stays busy with school, sports and activities. He can be heard as one of the hosts of Kodiak High School’s radio program "In The Know" here on KMXT.
