Murphy hopeful for Naval Academy future

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Poland High Sean Murphy is one step closer to gaining admission to the Naval Academy. He was nominated by U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan of Niles, D-17th, for the military academy. He's hoping to find out by the end of January if he's accepted.

By ASHLEY LUTHERN

aluthern@vindy.com

One conversation with a relative changed Sean Murphy’s prospects for the future.

“I got to talking with one of my relatives who’s serving in the Navy right now and became interested and started looking up more information,” said Murphy, a senior at Poland Seminary High School.

Murphy sent an application and resume to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis. Once the academy received his application, the track coach there began recruiting him for the school’s team. Murphy runs the 800 meters and his personal best is 1 minute, 56 seconds.

Last month, Murphy got one step closer to gaining admission to the Naval Academy. He was nominated by U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan of Niles, D-17th, for the military academy.

“It’s been a lot longer application process than any other college,” Murphy said. “A lot more work, too.”

He had to undergo a medical examination and submit his test scores, grades and list of extracurricular activities to the academy and Ryan’s office. In addition to track, Murphy also is a member of National Honor Society, Spanish Club, the varsity cross country team and volunteers at a track and field camp for children.

Murphy should be notified about the school’s decision by the end of this month. If accepted, he plans to study aerospace engineering and is considering flight school after graduation.

“I’ve always liked challenges and the academy would be another challenge,” Murphy said. “It’s hard to balance education and all the training there, because they’re trying to transform you from a civilian to a Naval officer. It’ll be hard, but I’m excited.”