We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lauren Faria a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Lauren, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

Last year, after committing to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo’s Engineering program and my parents putting down a dorm deposit, I received a United States appointment to the United States Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS) in Rhode Island.

Earlier that school year, I applied to my reach school, the United States Naval Academy though I knew I had little to zero chance of moving along the process. To my surprise, I received a Congressional Service Academy nomination and a Junior ROTC nomination. But, this was only part of the process. I also had to do well on my fitness test and impress my area’s Blue and Gold officer — who was a direct liaison to Admission. Months went by and I didn’t hear by the expected deadline. I was at peace that I had not been admitted and moved forward.

An appointment at the prep school equated to a Golden Ticket to the Naval Academy. I was guaranteed a seat if I could commit, graduate in 10 months, keep up my GPA, and obtain another Congressional Service Academy nomination.

I was excited, but very scared when I reported to NAPS. With COVID precautions in place, it made matters worse. My parents weren’t allowed to walk me in which meant I couldn’t risk turning around one last time to say bye because I knew I’d cry.

The first few months were tough; however, I made Dean’s List for the first marking period, was named my Platoon’s Morale Welfare Recreation leader, and made the cheer team. The isolation and discipline were difficult yet I pushed through.

After Winter Break, the weeks flew by quicker. For Marking Period III, I was voluntold to interview for a leadership position which was more than I could ask for. At the beginning of the school year, my goal was to finish NAPS. To my surprise, I was selected for one of three leadership positions. I was Battalion Executive Officer (XO) or second in command of 300+ Midshipmen Candidates (MCs).

I knew the appointment was mine unless I didn’t make grades or broke an honor code. Through perseverance and hard work, I received another Congressional Service Academy nomination and to my surprise, I also received a Secretary of the Navy nomination.

Black Monday came around and I finally received an email confirming I had received an appointment at the United States Naval Academy. As I type this, I’m preparing to report for Plebe Summer or a seven-week Boot Camp in Annapolis, MD. It’s all surreal. I risked it all for a shot at my dream school, the Naval Academy which has a 9% acceptance rate.

Lauren, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m a product of two immigrant grandparents. They struggled, worked hard, and instilled that discipline in my parents. My maternal grandparents are from the Philippines while my paternal grandparents are from Portugal. They believe in “paying it forward” which is why my family has always been big on service to others. My love for service grew from Girl Scouts to Air Force Junior ROTC – I finished my senior year as Commander.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

As the first grandchild on both sides of the family, my mom often refers to me as the “prototype”. They had no idea what they were doing but tried their best. With that said, I wish I knew about all the great organizations in and around my area. I will be majoring in Electrical Engineering and I would have benefitted from joining my school’s #1 ranked Robotics team. I also would’ve benefitted from joining the free SAT classes my school offered. STEM/ STEAM is really gaining momentum which is great, but I wish I had taken advantage of free clubs like Girls Who Code.

How did you build your audience on social media?

I love sharing my stories on TikTok. Social media can be so powerful and positive if used correctly. Many think I enlisted in the military so my job is educating others on the United States Service Academies: Naval Academy, West Point, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine. I’ve answered many questions via fun and entertaining TikTok videos. And, because I’ve also competed and placed in the top 10 at Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen — prelim to Miss America, I like debunking stereotypes. We need to continue to be supportive of others and I believe inclusivity is key.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: LaurenFaria1
• Other: TikTok – @NotLaurenMichelle