Phnom Penh (FN), Oct. 3 – The application process for international students is essentially the same as that for US citizens, according to official website of West Point Military Academy, westpoint.edu.
“International cadets are fully assimilated into the Corps of Cadets. Their four-year experience here is identical to that of US cadets,” the website said.
“West Point is consistently recognized as one of the best undergraduate colleges in the US. We educate and train cadets to perform at the highest levels intellectually, militarily and physically. Ethical and moral development is emphasized as is selfless service to one’s country.”
To study at West Point, applicants must have the necessary critical thinking skills to successfully navigate the academic rigors of a West Point education tested through SAT/ACT and TOEFL.
“They must be physically fit to meet the demands of military training and athletics; they must possess character that is beyond reproach; they must have grit; and they must have a desire for challenge and to be part of something bigger than themselves.”
Back in 1995, the year Cambodian army commander Hun Manet was one among the only seven international cadets to be admitted to West Point even though the academy recruit 10 international cadets per annum.
Spokesperson of the US Embassy Phnom Penh, Emily V. Zeeberg also defended all higher education diplomas provided by US institutions.
Emily wrote in an email response to Fresh News’ question on Wednesday following former opposition leader Sam Rainsy’s allegation over Hun Manet's fake degree issued by West Point US Military Academy.
“Graduates of US colleges, universities, or institutes of higher learning receive degrees or certifications if they meet the requirements of that institution. A student’s country of origin is not a factor,” Emily stated in email.
Dr. Hun Manet, the eldest son of Prime Minister Hun Sen, was the first Cambodian to graduate from West Point Military Academy of the United States in 1999. Today, he serves as Cambodian army commander.
On 28 September 2019, Rainsy told supporters in the US: “Manet’s degree is a 2nd degree and was given for diplomatic reasons as the US wanted to build good relations. They give this to the sons of foreign prime ministers and presidents to show off in their home countries.”
In response, General Hun Manet, on Monday, called out Rainsy to wager with him over allegations that his from West Point was a fake one.
Sam Rainsy denied by saying that, “the real knowledge and expertise are shown through practical achievement and accountability without the needs to swear or wager like kids,” Sam Rainsy wrote on Facebook on 30 September 2019.
In the same statement, Rainsy said “Hun Sen and his family provide bad examples for the Cambodian youth and the education system in Cambodia by boasting their fake degrees or second-class diplomas associated with lower level education compared to the standard level.”
=FRESH NEWS
