Falcon Scholars

Randolph-Macon Academy welcomed its first two Falcon Foundation Scholars in the Fall of 2012. Since then, we have had over seventy Falcon Scholars attend R-MA.

R-MA’s Falcon Scholars of 2023 all received appointments to the U.S. Air Force Academy.

R-MA has an established academic curriculum that successfully prepares students for all military service academies, including the United States Air Force Academy. The High Flight program at R-MA is a proven regiment that has resulted in acceptances to all the United States service academies. This curriculum has been tailored further for our Falcon Scholars to meet the expectations and demands of admission to the U.S. Air Force Academy.

At Randolph-Macon Academy you will learn to live by the same Honor Code as applied at the United States Air Force Academy.

Air Force Leadership Training is instilled. Upon completion of Cadre Camp, every Falcon Scholar will be promoted to the rank of Cadet 2nd Lieutenant within the Corps of Cadets. They will be assigned to one of the flights as a Flight Adjutant and, along with the Flight Commander, will lead up to 30 fellow cadets in their daily activities.

A physical training program tailored to prepare Falcon Scholars for the DOD’s Candidate Fitness Test. All Falcon Scholars will participate in a fitness training program created to maximize their physical fitness score.

Every Falcon Scholar is mentored by an on-staff, Brigadier General. The mentors will advise the Falcons on the preparation needed to obtain an Air Force Academy appointment and to pursue a career in the United States Air Force.

Focus will be placed on each Falcon Scholar’s needs in the nomination, application, and appointment processes to the United States Air Force Academy.

The mission of The Falcon Foundation program, established in 1958, “is to further the ability of exceptional young men and women to attend the United States Air Force Academy…” The scholarship recipients are selected by the Air Force Academy from students who successfully obtained nominations to the Air Force Academy and who are fully qualified to attend the Academy, but were not selected.

We recognize that as a Falcon Scholar, you have already gone through an extensive screening process in your successful bid for an Air Force Academy nomination. Therefore, you need only to complete the following information:

• Submit Application (select Falcon Foundation Scholar from the drop-down menu)
• Supply Randolph-Macon Academy with an official copy of your transcript so that we may plan your course schedule (download transcript request form here)
• A copy of the letter stating you are a Falcon Foundation Scholar

You may also scan and email your materials to Admissions@RMA.edu.

You may fax materials to 540-636-5419, e-mail them to the Director of Admission and Financial Aid, or mail them to: Randolph-Macon Academy, Admission Office, 200 Academy Drive, Front Royal, VA 22630.

We would like you to visit campus for a personal tour. At that time you will have a chance to meet the President, the Commandant, and the Academic Dean. If you visit while school is in session, you will be able to meet the current year’s Falcon Scholars. If it is not possible to visit R-MA, a video call can be arranged with the aforementioned persons so that we might meet you and give you the opportunity to ask questions.

Randolph-Macon Academy offers equal opportunity for admission, regardless of race, sex, color, religion, national or ethnic origin.

The goal of the military program for the Falcon Scholar is to provide leadership training and character development in preparation for an Air Force Academy appointment.

Leadership Camp
All Falcon Scholars will join the Randolph-Macon Academy Cadre Leadership Training program in August. Like all other R-MA Cadre, they will receive intensive training in leadership, teamwork, drill and ceremonies, uniform wear, school policies, and physical fitness.

Rank and Position
Upon completion of Cadre Camp, Falcon Scholars will be promoted to the rank of Cadet 2nd Lieutenant within the Corps of Cadets. They will be assigned to one of the flights as a Flight Adjutant and, along with the Squadron Commander, will lead up to 30 fellow cadets in their daily activities. They will assist in the initial training and orientation of all new and returning cadets, as well as ensuring the health, safety, and daily accountability for assigned cadets in the dorm, in the classroom, and at all military functions.

Physical Training
In addition to the leadership duties described above and academic responsibilities, Falcon Scholars will prepare for the USAFA Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA). We expect every student to be prepared and to perform well on the CFA.

Aerospace Classes
All Falcon Scholars will be assigned to an Aerospace 400-level class taught by a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel where they will learn citizenship, academic and social integrity, character, and service to others.

Mentoring & Guidance
Each Falcon Scholar will be assigned a mentor who will focus on academic and military performance and ensure their USAFA candidate application process is on track. The mentor will prepare and manage the Academy interview preparation. Mentoring will emphasize school rules, school culture, uniform care, and wear, and Service Academy application requirements tracking.

Randolph-Macon Academy’s Academic Department developed the following specialized curriculum for the Falcon Scholars based specifically on the needs of the Air Force Academy. The curriculum focuses on four key areas: Mathematics, Science, English, and SAT/ACT Prep.

Mathematics

Successful Air Force Academy candidates need mastery of the foundation of mathematical principles to be successful.  Progress toward this goal depends in part upon the successful integration of the new mathematics with the old to ensure that students acquire the fundamentals, while they are provided with an overview of the rapidly expanding frontiers in the field.

Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry
Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry reviews and expands basic algebraic concepts and skills covered in Algebra I and Geometry.  Students learn a higher level of mathematical thinking and greater skill in working with numbers and algebraic expressions, equations, and inequalities.  Among other topics, they study complex numbers, functions, linear systems, quadratic functions, radical equations, trigonometry, probability and linear programming.  This is excellent preparation for excelling in the advanced mathematics courses such as pre-calculus and calculus.

Honors Pre-Calculus
This advanced course prepares students for calculus and higher level mathematics. Students are exposed to higher level functions, including circular functions (trigonometry), analytical geometry, sequence and series, polar coordinates, and conic sections. This challenging course prepares our most serious students for theoretical college calculus by challenging them to solve rigorous and complex problems with an in-depth knowledge of higher level functions.

Science

Understanding and applying major scientific principles and the development of confidence in the use of scientific methods is essential for the successful Air Force Academy candidate.  Classroom teaching stimulates an interest in research and investigation, and laboratory periods present opportunities for individual and group experimentation.  Both inductive and deductive techniques are used to aid students in understanding principles and solving problems.  All courses require extensive laboratory work.

Advanced Placement Chemistry
Students in this course extend the basic principles of general chemistry into a deeper understanding of the complexity of chemical processes found in stoichiometry, gas laws, chemical bonding, theorem chemistry, kinetics, and equilibrium.  Concepts studied are strongly reinforced by laboratory experiments.  The understanding of concepts and the ability to solve problems are emphasized.  Advanced Placement Chemistry requires an application of algebraic principles to fully comprehend the chemical forces at work.

Advanced Placement Physics
This class presumes at least an introductory background in physics and is equivalent to an advanced, college level calculus-based mechanics class.  Students examine the standard topics in a mechanics curriculum from the basic kinematics equations through gravitation and rotational dynamics in much greater depth and with the application of the tools of calculus.  Class time will be split amongst a combination of lectures, interactive demonstrations, problem-solving sessions and group work, and laboratory experiments.  Students are expected to spend a significant amount of time outside of class on the course material.  The student must have completed math classes through pre-calculus and one year of high school physics (or have an equivalent background as approved by the instructor or Dean).  In addition to this, the student must have either already completed or be currently enrolled in Advanced Placement Calculus.

English

A solid foundation in reading and writing is the best preparation for success at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Reading and analyzing literature and rhetoric develops the student as thinker, writer, and speaker. Students develop mastery and voice in diverse writing missions.  Rigorous vocabulary study with cumulative testing develops the language facility needed for reading, writing, and standardized testing. Students learn to develop a formal thesis in essays that focus on the themes and literary techniques of literature; they learn the Modern Language Association (MLA) style for writing research projects.

Advanced Placement Literature and Composition 

In texts ranging from Dante and Shakespeare to Albee and Beckett, students learn to read and analyze the world’s most important writings.  Students write analyses and interpretations based on application of the works’ textual details, literary elements, social and historical context, and themes.  The course affords students the opportunity to read and write in a variety of forms—narrative, expository, creative, and argumentative.  Students gain mastery in the process of drafting, revising, editing, and polishing a piece of work.  In developing sophisticated reading and writing skills, students explore and describe how language works. They learn to observe and analyze the words, patterns, and structures that create subtle effects of language.  The depth, breadth, and pace of readings and the writing assignments challenge students and prepare them to succeed in the Advanced Placement test given each spring.

SAT/ACT Preparation

Fundamental test taking strategies, mathematical principles, reading approaches, and vocabulary development form the foundation for this course.  To prepare the successful test taker, a multitude of approaches are used—computer research and testing, paper and pencil tests, vocabulary dissection, instruction on calculator use, and more.  This thorough course reviews the current approaches to successfully scoring on the college entrance examinations. The course is designed to help students improve their SAT/ACT scores. Our track record is excellent and we are confident that Falcon Scholars will experience significant improvement.

Randolph-Macon Academy welcomed its first Falcon Foundation Scholars in the fall of 2012. Since then, R-MA has welcomed more than seventy Scholars into its community. We’re thrilled to share with you their words on the R-MA Falcon Experience:

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When deciding where I should go after my senior year, I was hesitant to go to a conventional college and drown in student debt, but I knew I wasn’t academically or physically ready to attend the United States Air Force Academy. Upon receiving my Falcon Foundation Scholarship from my USAFA admissions decision, I knew this program was the right choice for me. 

I chose Randolph-Macon Academy because I knew there was only a small group allowed to attend this school and it was close to my home in Northern Virginia. Being the only civilian preparatory school with a program dedicated to the Falcon Scholars, I am grateful for my decision. R-MA is intentional with having their Falcons succeed at their school, the Air Force Academy, and at future careers and endeavors. 

Now, I can confidently say that I am ready to endure the challenges that I will face at the Academy. There may be ups and downs, but I’ve learned to love my fellow Falcons as a family and work with them as a team; something no other preparatory school can teach as well as R-MA. This will be a year to remember as the prerequisite to the United States Air Force Academy.

Isabelle Bruce
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’23
U.S. Air Force Academy ’27

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When I received word that I got the Falcon Scholarship… I was surprised, and a little bummed. But only because I wasn’t yet aware of how amazing this opportunity is. From my understanding, the Falcon Scholarship is given to those that the Academy wants, but does not have space to accommodate, and also those who need some more help in one or a few areas. The Falcon Year is meant to prepare you to be the best version of yourself academically and physically. And going to Randolph-Macon Academy, the Air Force Junior ROTC program teaches you so much militarily that will definitely help you be prepared for the Air Force Academy.

But real talk, this year has not always been easy. Homesickness, adjusting to the rigor of a full schedule, and making new friends is definitely an adjustment! But one we all made, and I know anyone can, and better to get that experience over with before the Academy. Overall, this year would have been worth it just for the preparedness and excellence in academics and physical training alone. I went much further in my CFA scores and have run longer distances than I once thought possible! But the added bonus that made this year so much more fulfilling was the relationships I made with my Falcon group and our 2nd Lieutenant. Dorm life and camaraderie with the Falcons, going on field trips like the Airshow with the Thunderbirds, and screaming/cheering each other on at PT are just a few of the best moments I have experienced here. I know I can be confident going to the Air Force Academy now because I am more prepared and ready than I would have been if I just got an appointment the first time around. So, if you are reading this as a Falcon candidate deciding what to do next, consider this: if the Air Force Academy is really what you want, I urge you to say yes to being a Falcon, and 100% suggest you spend it at R-MA. You will not regret it. 

Rachel Fryer
R-MA Falcon Scholar ‘23
U.S. Air Force Academy ‘27

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My experience at R-MA has been one like no other.  If you want a straightforward testimonial, then search no further.  Don’t worry, though, that doesn’t mean it’s going to be overly blunt or focus on the negatives.  My straightforward, 100% unbiased, raw, unfiltered reaction to this year is that I couldn’t imagine a place that could prepare me better for the Academy and for a career as an Officer in the U.S. Air Force (or any branch for that matter). 

But why? What makes this place a true prep school?  From my experience, it’s that R-MA is stressful.  It forces you to grow up and puts you in an environment where leadership is not only necessary to succeed, but necessary to survive.

Live for the joy, live with the bane.  Most importantly, never give up.  And remember, Integrity first, Service before self, and Excellence in all we do.  Also, I recommend you start running.  Good luck and Go Falcons. 

Warren Graves
R-MA Falcon Scholar ‘23
U.S. Air Force Academy ‘27

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Being awarded the Falcon Scholarship was the best thing that could have happened to me. This year has gotten me physically, academically, and mentally ready for the Air Force Academy, and I know it will be easier to make the most out of my time at USAFA because I spent a year preparing for it. The Falcon Program has taught me how to adapt to new environments, which is essential for future military life. R-MA has academically challenged me in many ways, and I feel as if I have made lots of progress in my studies here. I have learned good study habits, time management, and gotten better about not procrastinating. I have also greatly improved my fitness scores, due to the rigorous yet rewarding PT sessions. Most importantly, I have learned a lot about myself over the past months at R-MA, and I have grown as a person.

The greatest thing about being at R-MA for me was forming close bonds and friendships with the people around me. All ten of us Falcons are together almost all of the time, we have the same classes, do PT together, and study together. We have been there for eachother through every accomplishment and every hardship. We have learned to work as a team and support each other, and I will forever have deep respect and admiration for my fellow Falcons.

Elizabeth Germain
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’23
U.S. Air Force Academy ’27

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From the minute I arrived at Randolph-Macon Academy, I knew this place would be the setting of great change in my life. I knew I would experience so much change, face many unique challenges, and work through much adversity. I had done many things in my high school career to prepare me for USAFA, but being a Falcon Scholar has been truly the most eye-opening and powerful experience in my life (so far). I won’t sugarcoat anything for you; being a Falcon Scholar is really hard. You will be tested greatly in your interpersonal and communication skills, maturity level, and ability to handle tough problems and even more difficult people.

I learned to become a much stronger team member while I was here, and I grew to not just care about the Falcons or myself, but to love them. I love every single one of them as my own family, and I would do absolutely anything for them. That was my favorite part of being here, the camaraderie all nine of us shared. The team has been the best part of being at R-MA, and I’ve made the best friends I could have ever asked for with the Falcons

Your challenge as a Falcon Scholar is to discover new ways of leading others, and how to adapt yourself to fit any kind of teamwork/leadership issue. Every day will be an exercise in your discipline, knowledge, excellence, and character. Remember that empathy is important as well as holding others accountable. Always be the example, as you can hold no one accountable until you can hold yourself accountable.

My final word of advice to you is this: Keep the main thing the main thing. And always remember the Air Force Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do. I look forward to seeing you at USAFA as the Class of 2028. GO FALCONS!

Carolyn Kimzey
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’23
U.S. Air Force Academy ’27

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When I was first notified of receiving my Falcon Foundation Scholarship, I’ll be the first to admit I was confused, nervous, and a little disappointed. I didn’t know what the Falcon Foundation was, and at first, I didn’t know the opportunities it would present to me. Knowing what I know now about the program, the opportunities it has brought me, and the knowledge I have gained, if I was given the opportunity to receive a direct appointment to USAFA vs attending R-MA as a Falcon for one year, I could confidently say I would choose to come here first. While being at R-MA, I have gained invaluable leadership experience, and created bonds with some of my classmates that I will never forget. The quality of the staff, and the guest speakers they bring in, is almost unheard of anywhere else in the country. You will learn so much, not only about what being a leader in the military entails, but about how to thrive in difficult settings.

R-MA is extremely grueling. I thought my high school years were challenging between participating in 3 sports and taking rigorous courses in school. But being at R-MA, I have been challenged in so many ways it doesn’t compare to the past. Specifically, the schoolwork is extremely rigorous. The classes are hard, however this year will make you unimaginably better at time management. Even though the classes are difficult, the staff here is what makes this school one of the best in America. They will spend countless hours outside the classroom making sure you understand the material. I feel as prepared as possible before I show up at I-Day in Colorado in a couple months, and I wouldn’t trade this experience I’ve had at R-MA for anything.

Stephen Papiernik
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’23
U.S. Air Force Academy ’27

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Being a Falcon at R-MA has been one of the greatest experiences and opportunities of my life. It has been a long ambition of mine to earn an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy, and both the Falcon Foundation and R-MA have made that a reality. Everything from early morning PT to challenging academics have prepared my fellow Falcons and me for success at USAFA. I know that I have grown stronger both physically and mentally because of my time as a Falcon. I genuinely believe that everyone who puts in the work as a Falcon will go on to thrive at USAFA and become a great officer in the U.S. Air Force, and my fellow Falcons have shown that. Not only will we all go in prepared to succeed, we will go in as a family. This year has brought me closer to a group of people than I ever thought possible, and knowing that we will all have a built-in support system at USAFA makes going all the more exciting.

Zoe Racz
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’23
U.S. Air Force Academy ’27

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Being a Falcon Scholar at Randolph-Macon Academy has been a learning experience that I don’t think I could’ve gotten anywhere else. The unique leadership experiences and challenges have propelled me to grow more this year than I have within any other year in my life. The bond that I’ve formed this year with the other Falcons and our Lieutenant, and the many experiences we’ve shared together, is something that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Of course all of us have undergone a variety of challenges throughout our time as Falcon Scholars; this year was filled with difficult days that began at 5am sharp, but we got through them together. Being able to learn alongside others with the same passion and help shape other cadets has taught me as much as I aimed to teach others. Now, with these new experiences, I believe I am ready for the challenges and opportunities at the Air Force Academy.

Luke Schaul
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’23
U.S. Air Force Academy ’27

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Being at R-MA has not only given me incredible opportunities, but it has given me skills and knowledge that I would not have gotten if I went to any other school. As a Falcon Scholar, we are signed up to take some pretty rigorous classes, ones that were nowhere near the difficulty of the classes at my old school. I struggled… a lot, but with the help of the amazing teachers and their willingness to help anyone, also with some help from the other Falcons, I was able to get on top of my school work and succeed. Not coming from any ROTC background, R-MA was a great stepping stone into the Air Force Academy; being able to learn things like drill, uniform standards, and Air Force customs and courtesies will be very beneficial for me entering the Academy. Another great opportunity that I was given was to help coach the boys and girls varsity soccer teams. Working alongside the head coaches and the players to help better them and myself taught me new ways of leading that I will be able to apply for the rest of my life. In my time here I have learned more than just hard work from school and PT – I learned to build bonds with the other Falcons that accomplished the same thing alongside me the whole time. Not only has R-MA prepared me for the Air Force Academy, it has prepared me for my life. I’m extremely happy I chose this school when I got the scholarship, because I dont think I’m just going to do well at the Air Force Academy, I believe I am going to excel.

William Stark
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’23
U.S. Air Force Academy ’27

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2020 was not a normal year for anyone. Students around the world were isolated from academics, social fun, and athletics. Study skills suffered. Fitness fell away. Even our brains were getting soft. At the end of 2020, confidence was low, friends lost touch, and we were out of practice with almost everything.

R-MA provided a solid boost across all areas that matter. Academics were more rigorous than the high school in my home state. I felt the difference early on and teachers inspired me to do well. I found myself truly learning for the first time in a long time, enjoying the process, and getting rewarded for studies with my fellow Falcons. It is part of our culture to succeed.

R-MA’s daily focus on fitness challenged me at first. I saw what Falcons who came before me were able to do and, although I’ve always been athletic and into sports, I was intimidated. By the end of my Falcon year, I aced my fitness tests and I want more!

I was expected to take on leadership in ways I hadn’t been asked to before. Carrying our rock, symbolizing the burden of leadership, enriched my meaning of responsibility.

The social environment was also a win for me. As a Falcon, I find myself surrounded by nine other Falcons that I respect and admire. We push one another to be better and we support one another when things are hard. Best of all, we laugh together, have fun, and we mean it. Being a Falcon means being part of a great team. We achieve great things together and I’m grateful that we had this year to get back into the game.

Connor Dejewski
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’22
U.S. Air Force Academy ’26

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This year has been a really good learning experience for me in so many ways. One thing is that I have had the pleasure of getting to know my fellow Falcons, all of whom are very unique and are very supportive to me and to each other. I have learned the importance of time-management, punctuality, and the skill of prioritizing. It has always been nice doing PT with the other Falcons because I know that we are struggling and in it together.

Being at R-MA has helped me become used to being away from my family and to get mentally ready for the Air Force Academy. I have received so much help here from the faculty and from my friends to get through the application process and the suspense of waiting for an answer from the admissions board. Even though it would have been cool to get into the Academy the first try, this is an experience I would not trade for anything.

David Ignacio
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’22
U.S. Air Force Academy ’26

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Being awarded the Falcon Foundation Scholarship and attending Randolph-Macon Academy was important in developing into a model cadet. The various experiences and conversations with many retired and active military personnel, along with mentoring from previous Falcon Scholars give insight on expectations and hurdles. The opportunity is much more personalized and centralized amongst the Falcons at Randolph-Macon Academy, allowing for an engaging mindset not only as an individual but as a group. Motivation to better yourself will guarantee improvement in aspects such as leadership, communication, physical fitness, and academics while attending. Surrounded by a community of dedicated staff and students with similar milestones will fully prepare any Falcon Scholar for USAFA.

Fletcher Foote
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’22
U.S. Air Force Academy ’26

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The academics at R-MA are incomparable to what I had in my high school. Math classes this year have been challenging yet prepared me incredibly for USAFA. The group of Falcons are my family, all reaching for the same goal, we understand each other in a way no one else could. I am glad to be entering with the people I am close with instead of alone.

Isabelle Beaulieu
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’22
U.S. Air Force Academy ’26

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While I wasn’t sure what to expect when I accepted the Falcon Scholarship, I knew it would be hard. I knew it would push me and test me, force me to change in ways I wasn’t expecting. You are forced to absorb each thing that comes your way, and learn to work in many different situations. Things don’t always go as planned, but when you have the other Falcons’, you know someone understands you, and is always looking out for you. They are truly your brothers as sisters, and the bonds are forged in blood, sweat and occasionally tears.

It’s painful reading that Falcon letter, knowing that you have to work that much harder for a goal you could have already achieved. It also makes the acceptance letter that much sweeter, and your confidence stronger than ever. Part of that stems from the knowledge that there are others you have known for a year, and they want you to succeed as much as you want it for them. I know that I will step on the Academy grounds with new expectations, hopes, and determination.

It’s a hard step to take, but a worthwhile one. Every minute, hour, class, workout session, and meeting help you grow. You’ll only realize how much you’ve grown when you look back, and I promise you’ll be proud of yourself.

Jaimey-Leigh Weidner
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’22
U.S. Air Force Academy ’26

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My time at R-MA has been nothing short of incredible. There have been so many valuable lessons I have here that I believe have truly prepared me for the United States Air Force Academy. Routine weightlifting and intense workouts have built up my physical and mental resilience: something I never really thought myself capable of. The coursework and classes taught me more about the power of time management. However, the most important part of my experience here was the camaraderie I have had with the other Falcons. Through their encouragement and insight they have helped me to grow into a better version of myself. We all push together through the highs and the lows. I could not have succeeded here without the incredible team of people right next to me. I can confidently say that I feel prepared for the challenges ahead at the Air Force Academy, and I am excited to have nine of my closest friends going with me.

Kaarin Holter
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’22
U.S. Air Force Academy ’26

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Upon receiving my Falcon Foundation Scholarship, I visited R-MA and I knew immediately that this was the school that could prepare me to be the best version of myself. The strides that I have made mentally, physically, and academically are well beyond comparable to any other opportunity I’ve been given. The structure of the program was able to illuminate my weaknesses and build up areas that needed it, even if I didn’t realize it. I’ve been able to refine my leadership skills and excel in my physical abilities. Compared to where I was last year, I feel significantly more prepared for the Air Force Academy academically and I have a much stronger understanding of myself and how to overcome challenges. Most importantly, I’ve been able to do it with nine other people with the same motivations and morals as I do and have encouraged me along the way. That bond is definitely one of the most unique, and most rewarding, parts of this experience.

Lorna Loughery
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’22
U.S. Air Force Academy ’26

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When I received the Falcon Foundation scholarship I immediately followed up with research. I knew without a doubt that I wanted to attend Randolph-Macon Academy. R-MA not only presented the best opportunity for academics but a reassuring graduation and acceptance rate into The United States Air Force Academy. R-MA provided a multitude of challenges, whether it was academics, physical fitness,or intellectual. Just when you think you can no longer improve, you do. Staying motivated in any situation is challenging, but R-MA has taught me that dedication is key in achieving and succeeding .

These unusual sets of difficulties added to the preparedness I feel now going into USAFA in June. I knew that this year would be challenging but I never imagined being pushed past my limits. My leadership abilities have been challenged in ways I never imagined possible and I am so appreciative for the valuable lessons I have learned while attending R-MA.

I have learned how to appropriately respond when things become rough or challenging. R-MA has taught me to pick myself back up and keep going, and to fight for my ambitions even when it seems close to impossible. The structured environment proved to be challenging but effective. Most of my time, especially during the first semester, was devoted to school work, physical fitness, and reapplying to USAFA. I couldn’t have done it without the strong support system that the Falcon Scholarship program provided. Most importantly my fellow Falcon Scholars have become like siblings to me. Throughout the hardships here at R-MA I always found it easy to lean on the Falcons.

Makayla Hall
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’22
U.S. Air Force Academy ’26

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This year has been full of great surprises which have helped to prepare me for any upcoming challenges in the future. I have learned to use all the excellent resources available here at R-MA to my advantage in order to boost my grades and better my studying habits. I have been able to put in a lot of extra workout hours into specific weak points of my athletic abilities. The people I have met here will for sure become lifelong friends and the memories I have made will be unforgettable. I am extremely grateful for all this year has provided for me.

Pedro Camps
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’22
U.S. Air Force Academy ’26

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Randolph-Macon Academy’s Falcon Scholarship Program has taught me so many valuable things starting from day one. Learning to adapt to different environments and situations is extremely important at R-MA as well as in the military. Not only have I acquired more military knowledge and leadership experience, but I have grown academically, physically, mentally, and spiritually. R-MA has definitely prepared me for USAFA and I can say without hesitation that I am ready for the challenges that lie ahead. The other Falcons will become some of your best friends and will carry you through the difficulties that occur over the year.

Rachel Ninan
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’22
U.S. Air Force Academy ’26

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My year, so far, here at Randolph-Macon Academy has been one of the biggest learning experiences of my life. It has taught me invaluable lessons on leadership, problem-solving, and most of all time management. I didn’t think that it was possible to fit as much in a day as I have while here at R-MA.  I am also the fittest that I have ever been, which has been due to the rigorous PT schedule that we have made for ourselves. It has been great to interact and get to know my fellow Falcons and learn about what each of them brings to the table when trying to solve problems. But most of all I think that I have liked becoming best friends with each and every one of my fellow Falcons, we have become a little family, I would do anything for them and I know that they would do the same for me. I wouldn’t have traded this year for anything.

Colby Tell
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’21
U.S. Air Force Academy ’25

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Randolph Macon Academy was the best preparation for my future career at USAFA. Not only will you be the most physically fit, you will learn to live the military lifestyle and develop a sense of discipline and confidence that you never knew that you could have. Going to Randolph Macon for my prep year allowed me to be in leadership positions which other prep schools cannot offer. Taking charge of a flight and learning how to deal with and be a mentor to cadets was a beneficial learning experience that I will remember forever. The Falcon Foundation program, here at RMA, has given me a second chance to earn an appointment to USAFA and has given me the camaraderie of nine other Falcons who I call my best friends. I will not sugar coat it, most of your training and days will suck, but your teammates will be the ones that make your experience rewarding; and later on, those memories will be something you will laugh at.

Vivienne M. Truong
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’21
U.S. Air Force Academy ’25

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As soon as I found out I had been offered a Falcon Scholarship I didn’t have any doubt as to which school to choose.  I called R-MA and signed up right away. There’s several reasons why I believe this is the best place to prepare yourself for the Air Force Academy. First, there’s a small number of falcon scholars, allowing you to receive full attention in your training and to establish deep relationships with your comrades. Second, the Falcon program operates like a unit within a base: we have our own Officer In Charge (a freshly commissioned Air Force officer) with whom we train physically and mentally, developing endurance, perseverance, excellence, leadership, and just about anything a future officer needs. Third, it’s an [military values] environment, which enables you to initiate the understanding of the branch, its traditions, values,  and procedures. Being a Falcon at R-MA means you will be held to the highest standards, growing as a leader, a teammate, and a friend. Looking back at my year at R-MA, I have grown physically, mentally, and emotionally. Had I been appointed directly I would have had a rough start, but thanks to Randolph-Macon Academy, I feel ready for the rigors of the Air Force Academy.

Luca Valenti
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’21
U.S. Air Force Academy ’25

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Randolph-Macon Academy’s Falcon Scholar program has been the greatest learning experience I have gone through so far in my life.     Being here with other Falcon Scholars and R-MA students from all across the country and world has been an enriching experience that I will never forget.  While I now have so many great memories from my time here, it has not all come with ease.  I have been challenged and pushed to my limits both physically and academically, but there’s also been a good balance between that and just having fun.  Friendships have been forged with people of different backgrounds and beliefs, yet we are all one R-MA family, and within that I also have gained the amazing camaraderie of my eight other Falcon brothers and sisters, with whom I will soon enter the United States Air Force Academy as members of the Class of 2025.  Thanks to the leadership of R-MA, its teachers, staff and entire student body, I feel incredibly prepared for the next phase of my life.

Rocco Graziano
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’21
U.S. Air Force Academy ’25

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To receive The Falcon Foundation scholarship was a true blessing. Immediately after receiving the great news I had done research on all the prep schools, and R-MA stood out the most to me. I am very happy with my choice, I have grown mentally, spiritually and physically. From the very first day we were all held to new standards and were met with challenges. By overcoming the obstacles we were able to grow individually and as a unit. The memories and friends I have made here will never be forgotten. I am fully confident in my ability to excel at USAFA and bring pride to being an R-MA Falcon.

Rafael Maldonado
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’20
U.S. Air Force Academy ’24

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My year at R-MA has been one of the most memorable years of my life. This is solely due to the camaraderie that I share amongst the other Falcons who I can now call my own separate family. Being a Falcon at R-MA is no easy task; however, it is definitely a rewarding one. Fighting through the tough physical training while keeping up with the academic coursework has been a challenge that will prepare you for the rigorous environment at USAFA.

As a Flight Adjutant at R-MA, I can lead a small group of motivated cadets into parades and flight competitions. As a Falcon, I am able to be a role model for the whole corps of cadets here at R-MA. This is an incredible opportunity to learn and experience great leadership qualities that I will be able to use as an officer within the Air Force. After one year at R-MA, I can now say confidently that I am prepared for whatever USAFA will throw at me in the following years.

Ryan Messer
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’20
U.S. Air Force Academy ’24

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Being a Falcon Scholar here has helped me grow both mentally and physically. I am in the best shape of my life because of the constant workouts we do. Furthermore, being a Falcon has shown me the importance of a team and trusting in that team. I believe this school has prepared me very well for the challenges to come at the Academy.

Ryan Hidalgo
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’20
U.S. Air Force Academy ’24

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While some people may have been unsure about accepting their Falcon Foundation Scholarship, I was eager from the moment I opened the letter. What I didn’t realize going into this year, was how much Randolph-Macon Academy would push my weaknesses. It’s the first time in eighteen years that you are forced to work with a group of people who have the exact same goal as you, and instantly they become family. With every struggle that I faced, I found there were resources everywhere I looked to help me overcome them. Knowing that I have a support system of upperclassmen with me at the United States Air Force Academy will be a priceless resource that you cannot get when arriving there straight from high school.

Being at Randolph-Macon Academy has created a sense of independence. You rely on the Falcons, but you learn so much about yourself, your values, and your limits on the way. This year has been a year of adjusting to the challenges and pain, while also finding out what you can give to a group of eight kids who come from such diverse backgrounds. I am excited to finish this journey and proud to call this place, and these people, home!

Elizabeth Cassidy
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’20
U.S. Air Force Academy ’24

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The Falcon program at R-MA has genuinely changed my life. I have grown physically, mentally, and intellectually through the amazing mentors and staff at the school. I was challenged from the moment I stepped on campus and have grown drastically in the past six months. My goal of attending USAFA was always a focal point of physical training sessions and discussions with influential retired air force faculty. I feel so much more comfortable knowing that I am prepared to the best of my ability going into USAFA this summer. I feel stronger, motivated, and ready to take on anything the Air Force Academy needs of me.

Camryn Camarata
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’20
U.S. Air Force Academy ’24

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To me, coming to Randolph-Macon Academy was an acceptance of a challenge. I had the opportunity to attend almost any college in the nation on a full ride because of my NROTC scholarship. Although I almost chose that offer, I am proud and thankful I accepted the Falcon Scholarship over that one. I knew it would be more difficult to attend a service academy. I knew that it meant not going directly into college like the rest of my peers. I knew that this year would be one of my toughest years ever and believe me it did not disappoint. However, this year at Randolph-Macon Academy has been one of the most transformative periods of time in my life. I have never been more in shape mentally and physically.

I come from an area that is not known for its academic shrewdness. I have struggled through the majority of this year catching up to the other Falcons. Yet, because my drive and motivation to succeed is so large I have continued to prove my worth. I believe that it is this same drive and motivation that will make me successful at the United States Air Force Academy. Similarly, Randolph-Macon Academy has given me a head start that will benefit me greatly at the United States Air Force Academy. I have learned a deep understanding in classes that I would have definitely struggled with at the United States Air Force Academy. I have perfected a routine that works for me and keeps me organized and on top of my work. I have strengthened my body through workouts that would seem unorthodox to anyone outside of the Randolph-Macon Academy falcons. These are simply a few examples of how Randolph-Macon Academy has successfully transitioned me into an appointee of the United States Air Force Academy.

Blaze Williams
R-MA Falcon Scholar ’20
U.S. Air Force Academy ’24