Over one million people applied to college this year, each hoping to follow their dreams and pursue a higher education. However, for a select group of students, the dream wasn’t just about college; it was about service, honor, and commitment. Out of this one million, 12,000 applied to the United States Air Force Academy, and only 1,400 cadets were appointed.
This year, Joseph Vieira (‘25) was one of them.
Who is Joe Vieira?
On November 14, 2006, Joe Vieira was born. From a young age, he had been driven by ambition and a desire to achieve big things. Though he didn’t always know the Air Force Academy would become his goal, Joe has always sought a sense of purpose in everything he does. As a two-sport varsity athlete, he excels in both soccer and track and field, showing his dedication to athletics.
Outside of sports, Joe is a passionate leader in several clubs at RMHS. First, he is a part of Athletic Impact Mission, a club which donates sports equipment to kids in need and promotes social mobility. He is also a part of Wings Initiative, a clothing and donation club, and is a Rocket Ambassador which focuses on supporting and mentoring underclassmen. Additionally, he is a proud member of both the World Language and National Honor Societies, reflecting his commitment to academics and leadership. Joe also attended Massachusetts Boys State, which is a highly selective summer leadership program that teaches young men the principles of American government and the responsibilities of citizenship. Through his many activities, Joe has proven that he is not only dedicated to personal success, but also to making a meaningful impact on those around him.
Ms. Maura Keefe, a guidance counselor at RMHS and someone who has closely worked with Joe, shared that he exemplifies the core values of the United States Air Force Academy: integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do. “I’ve never had to worry about Joey doing his own work or trying his hardest,” she said. Ms. Keefe highlighted Joe’s desire for excellence, noting his willingness to challenge himself across all academic subjects, even those outside his comfort zone, and his efforts to remain physically prepared through sports. “He has tried to strive to be the best in everything.” She also praised Joe’s independence, leadership, and the initiative he showed in figuring out the complex AF Academy application process. Lastly, Ms. Keefe believes Joe stood out as a candidate not just for his well-rounded resume, but because “he’s very dedicated to all that he does.”
Why the Air Force Academy?
For Joe, the decision to apply to the United States Air Force Academy wasn’t just about college, it was about purpose, challenge, and legacy. “I’d say there are about a billion reasons why I wanted to go to the Academy,” he shared. The idea was first introduced to him by his mom near the end of his sophomore year, during a time when Joe was unsure of his future. He had never even heard of the service academies before, but once he began researching, something clicked. Joe had always been fascinated by planes and the idea of flying, making the Air Force a natural fit. That connection deepened when he learned more about his grandfather, who served in the Air Force. “It makes me proud to know that I will be carrying on his legacy in a way,” Joe said.
But beyond family ties and personal interests, it was the Academy’s difficulty that drew him in. “When my mom introduced the idea to me, she warned me that it would be very, very difficult, and that I should only do it if I was really prepared for that difficulty. For me, the challenge of the application process and of getting into the academy was not a deterrent, but a motivator. I wanted to do it because I knew it would be one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, and I am really glad that I didn’t shy away from that challenge.” For him, the Academy represents not just an opportunity to pursue his passion, but to be part of something far greater than himself: “I get to serve my country like millions have done before me, and protect the freedoms and ideals that they worked so hard to maintain.”
What is the path to go to the Academy?
Joe’s and his fellow cadets’ path to the Air Force Academy was far from easy. This path is unlike any other college application process, and Joe experienced this firsthand. His journey began in the spring of his junior year when he completed the Pre-Candidate Questionnaire, which ensures that applicants meet certain basic requirements. Once promoted to official Candidate status, Joe began the full application in the summer, which included an extensive 23-item checklist. This application is separate from the Common App and demands significantly more effort than traditional college applications.
While most schools ask for a single essay and one recommendation letter, the Academy requires three essays and five letters of recommendation. Additionally, Joe had to complete a physical fitness test, undergo medical and eye exams, and participate in multiple interviews. To Joe, the most challenging and unique part of the process was securing a nomination from a U.S. congressperson. Each nomination required its own essays, resume, and interview. Joe’s efforts paid off , as he earned nominations from all three of his congress people: Representative Seth Moulton, Senator Ed Markey, and Senator Elizabeth Warren. By the time his application was complete, Joe said, “I’d guess that I have spent at least twice as much time on my Academy application than all my other twelve college applications combined.”
What is life at the Air Force Academy like?
Thomas Gallegos, an RMHS 2023 graduate who is entering his third year in the U.S. Air Force Academy, shared his firsthand experience navigating the demanding lifestyle of a cadet and offered valuable insight into what Joe can expect. “It’s tough, you have a lot on your plate every day, on the weekends, and over the summer.” From his perspective, one of the most challenging aspects of Academy life is the constant change. “It feels like almost every semester something new with the schedule or responsibilities changes,” he says. “It’s super important to find a rhythm here, and the change always derails that.” Despite these challenges, according to Thomas the hard work pays off: “It’s rewarding.”
He also shared what a typical day looked like for him this past year:
6:20 AM: Wake up and shower, grab breakfast
7:00-7:50 AM: Brief on something (usually has this 2 days a week)
8:00-10:00 AM: School classes
12:00-12:45 PM: Formation and mandatory lunch
1:00-2:00 PM: Classes
3:00-4:30 PM: Workout
5:30 PM: Dinner
6:00-7:00 PM: HW, chores, etc.
10:00 PM: Asleep
Thomas also had some advice for Joe as he gets ready to start his journey. “Stay motivated and find hobbies. If all you have is school, then life will suck. If you don’t put in enough effort, life will also suck. You need a solid group of friends. Have a little fun, but stay locked in.” His final piece of advice emphasized the importance of staying open and grounded: “Just have awareness when you are getting to a point where you need to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
What are his future plans?
Looking ahead, Joe’s goal is to commission as a pilot in the Air Force, a dream fueled by his fascination with flying and the unique opportunities the Academy offers. “I’m definitely excited to start my career in the Air Force, and hopefully become a pilot.” At the same time, Joe is also realistic and open-minded about the journey ahead. While flying is a major goal, he recognizes that there are many other exciting and valuable paths within the Air Force, like intelligence, and he’s eager to explore them. More than anything, he wants to stay present and make the most of every experience over the next four years. “I don’t want to get caught up in only thinking four years ahead; I want to really enjoy my time at the Academy and build meaningful, life-long connections.”
Though he admits he’s nervous about the challenges ahead, including the intense schedule, basic training, and the dramatic shift in lifestyle, Joe remains self-assured. “I know myself, and I know that I am capable of overcoming these challenges. I’m doing all of this for something greater: not just for myself or for my education, but to serve my country and my people. And that makes it all worth it.”
