How do midshipmen choose their military service assignment at graduation?

Midshipmen at the Naval Academy choose their military service assignments based predominantly on academic performance and personal preferences. This process, known as "service selection," takes into account the midshipman's overall academic record, performance throughout their time at the academy, and their expressed interests in various branches of the military.

The service selection is highly competitive; therefore, those who excel academically and demonstrate leadership skills are often given priority in securing their desired assignments. Additionally, midshipmen submit a list of preferred service choices, allowing them to pursue careers in naval aviation, surface warfare, submarines, or other fields, depending on their interests and career goals. This system ensures that the selection is merit-based rather than reliant on personal connections, chance, or popular consensus.