Would like to pass on a bit of knowledge I picked up over the last 18 months. Personal statement: keep it short, no longer than half the space provided, the board has a lot of applications to look at and a limited amount of time. Letters of recommendation: three from people that know you well, if using military officers, shoot for O5 and above; purportedly too many LOR can actually detract from your application. Medical clearance: seek to have it complete and part of your packet, only makes you more competitive. Own your packet: trust but verify what you hear/read. Don't give up: keep at it; if you're not competitive put time/energy into yourself and others and try again a year, two or five later. If I remember correctly the average age of selects is early to mid 30's. Finally, I would suggest to those in this thread (or lurking) who don't consider the Navy their only choice to prudently pursue a reserve direct commission in either the Coast Guard (prior service) or Army (prior/non-prior service).