By Jack Meyers '27
Dylan Gutowski ‘25, recent star of A Chorus Line and member of the Varsity tennis team has recently been accepted to West Point’s Summer Leaders Experience. The Summer Leaders Experience (SLE) is a highly selective program that offers rising high school seniors a unique opportunity to experience life at West Point, one of the nation's most esteemed military academies. During this week-long program, participants engage in academic workshops, physical and military training, and leadership exercises, gaining first hand insight into the rigorous demands and rewards of a military education. This exceptional achievement highlights Dylan Gutowski's dedication to leadership, service, and personal excellence.
Dylan Gutowski comments on the rigorous training needed to be accepted into the program: “Getting accepted into the Summer Leaders Experience at West Point required a combination of academic, physical, and extracurricular preparation. Academically, I maintained a high GPA and took challenging courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) classes, to demonstrate my dedication to learning… Physically, I engaged in regular exercise and sports to build my fitness levels, which are crucial for a military environment. In addition to playing top positions on the varsity tennis team, I participated in several other team sports at SJR such as cross country, track and wrestling all of which helped me build endurance, strength, and teamwork skills. Extracurricularly, I took on leadership roles in the 3D printing club and organized fundraisers for local charities. I also volunteered extensively in my community, which allowed me to develop a sense of service and responsibility. This combination of academic excellence, physical fitness, and leadership experience helped me stand out as a candidate for the SLE program.”
Dylan further explains: “My motivation to apply to the SLE program and learn about a career in the military stems from a deep respect for the values of honor, duty, and country. Growing up, I admired the discipline and dedication of military personnel and the sacrifices they make to protect our freedoms. My uncle served in the military and his stories of courage and resilience inspired me to explore this path,” when asked about why he chose to pursue this experience.
“I hope that the Summer Leaders Experience at West Point will significantly contribute to my personal growth in several ways… I anticipate that the challenging physical and academic environment will push me beyond my comfort zone, and help me develop greater resilience, discipline, and time management skills… I look forward to learning from experienced military leaders and interacting with peers who share my commitment to service and excellence… the experience will provide me with a deeper understanding of the values and traditions of the U.S. Military Academy, reinforcing my commitment to service and leadership… Ultimately, I believe that the SLE program will make me a more disciplined, motivated, and capable individual, ready to take on leadership roles and make a positive impact in any field I choose to pursue.”
Dylan Gutowski will attend the experience this summer among several other recruits chosen. Congratulations to Dylan, and best of luck from the SJR family!