Running 10 miles and lifting weights five times per week may seem like an arduous routine for some people, but for senior Michael Riva, working out is not only a hobby but also necessary conditioning for the Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS), where he will be enrolling next year.

NAPS, located in Newport, R.I., offers a unique program that combines both academic instruction and military training to help potential students like Riva transition from civilian life to the armed forces. Students depart in July and must complete a 10-month school year before graduating in May.

“I really believe that NAPS will be a good fit for me,” said Riva. “It is a great school in terms of academics and it opens up so many opportunities for my future.”

Next year, Riva will be taking rigorous classes in subjects such as chemistry, physics, calculus, English and information technology. In addition to enrolling in these classes, Riva will also participate in a concentrated training program that includes both physical exercise and military drills.

“From what I hear, the schedule is rather regimented, and I think it will take some time to transition into this new lifestyle,” said Riva.

Riva’s interest in the Naval Academy stems from his childhood. When he was younger, a family friend took him out to many Navy football games, which was his first exposure to the school. But Riva’s primary motivation in enrolling in the Naval Academy transcends mere football games.

“My parents really lived the American Dream, and it is because of this that I have really grown to appreciate the value of American ideals like freedom and opportunity,” said Riva. “Defending our country and all that it stands for will be an extremely rewarding experience.”

During the past summer, Riva attended a summer seminar at the Naval Academy, which is a one-week program that gives potential applicants a chance to see what life in the armed forces is like. Riva took classes and participated in a physical training program that is modeled off a typical Navy workout routine. The training program consisted of Navy Seal workouts, marching drills and a two-mile obstacle course.

As Riva looks to the future, he has many years left of schooling before he enters the armed forces. He must first graduate with a GPA of 2.0 or higher next year from the Prep School before he gains acceptance into the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Riva feels that his experience at WJ has prepared him well for the upcoming years.

“Next year will be a very busy one because I’ll have to balance both academics and military training,” said Riva. “All the classes I’m taking now will lay a good foundation and give me a head start for next year.”

After four years at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Riva will have to fulfill a five-year minimum service requirement in the Navy or the Marine Corps. As for Riva, he is currently unsure of where he wants to serve, but he is looking forward to the next few years as a time of boundless opportunities.

“You have to take a long-run perspective of your career,” said Riva. “Life at the Naval Academy may be difficult at first, and you may not always like it, but when you graduate, you’ll have a great job and an exciting career in the U.S. Navy. For me, that’s definitely worth it.”