Sedona Red Rock High School junior Ryan Pfaff’s summer vacation plans are a bit different from those of his peers. He will be spending a week of his summer at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., from May 31 through June 6, taking part in the U.S. Army’s Summer Leaders Experience designed for juniors considering applying to the academy.

“Then, right after that, I’ll go straight to the Naval Academy to do a really similar program … the one at West Point is more focused on leadership, and the Naval Academy’s program is more technical,” Pfaff said. 

Pfaff will then head to Annapolis, Md., for the U.S. Naval Academy’s Summer Seminar, held from, June 7 through 12. There, he will live in Bancroft Hall, the dormitory that houses all 4,000-plus midshipmen at the academy.

“I’m looking to pursue political science, and I thought attending these programs would be a great way to learn more about leadership and gain insight into the military,” Pfaff said. “It felt great when [I] found out I was selected for both programs, [and] it was definitely the highlight of my day. Other recent highlights, I’ve visited both the academies over spring break, and I’m improving a lot on the track. My track and field season is progressing great. Last year I wasn’t able to run a mile, and just last night, I got a 6:40 mile.”

Pfaff was also a member of the Sedona Red Rock High School cross-country team in the fall, and said he has been focusing on his athletic training ahead of the summer programs.

“I’ve been exercising a lot more, and trying to eat healthier so I’m in better shape when I go,” he said. Outside of athletics, Pfaff also participates in the Sedona Police Department’s cadet program, which gives students hands-on experience in law enforcement. The program is funded entirely by donors and aims to build leadership, communication and teamwork skills in Sedona youth.

“It’s a fun program and gives you leadership opportunities,” Pfaff said. “I enjoy spending time with everyone there. It gives me insight into law enforcement, which I see as a potential career.”

Pfaff recently represented the Sedona Police Cadets at the regional competition in Chandler in January and said that he was proud of their performance even though they won no awards. “Only two of us had been to a competition before,” Pfaff said. “Considering that, it went really well. Our group has grown together really quickly.”

Pfaff also serves on the SRRHS student council, is a member of the National Honor Society and participates in the Interact Club. He said that his goal is to receive an appointment to one of the military academies and that he is considering a career as a military officer, rather than a four-year stint.

“Leadership is not just about leading people; it’s also about being someone others can look up to,” Pfaff said. “It’s about being there to help others and offering guidance, or simply spending time with someone so both of you benefit. For me, leadership is about the opportunity to help people and improve the community and the country.”