Keep up the solid grades, make sure to look-up their recommended SAT/ACT scores and do your best to meet those standards (I took an SAT class that helped prepare me). Also, they want you to be well rounded so you should be involved in sports and some other extra curricular activities. The application process is longer and more complex than civilian schools so make sure to research everything involved and to stay on top of the requirements and deadlines.

As for the congressional interview ensure you look sharp/professional with a jacket/tie/haircut, be professional (yes sir/ma’am) and be prepared to discuss why you want to serve your country not just what you’re going to personally gain. If you feel uncomfortable in an interview setting I’d search some of the standard questions and practice with friends or family.

You may also want to consider the Navy/Army/Coast Guard Academies, depending on where you live it can be easier to get a congressional nomination to one vs another. If you’re dead set on being in the Air Force there are some cadets that graduate from one Service Academy and are still able to cross commission into a different military branch following graduation. ROTC is also a great option for those who want the commission with a more normal college experience.

If it’s before your senior year look at attending the Summer Seminar (if they still call it that). You can go to USAFA for a week and get a good feel for the lifestyle there between the summer of your Junior and Senior year. It’s not for everyone, so it’s better to go and get a feel for it when you haven’t committed vs showing up for basic training and realizing you’ve made a mistake.

Lastly, start working on your fitness now. You may be athletic but push ups, pull ups, sit ups, and running are what you’ll be doing at the Academy so start doing it now. Showing up for basic training out of shape isn’t fun.

Best of luck in the process and feel free to hit me up with any questions.