Most people facing a shortened summer vacation would pout around this time, but Clyde Shavers says he’s lucky.

The Newport High senior will report to the United States Naval Academy on June 30, marking an abrupt end to his post-graduation glee.

It’s there that he’ll endure the rigors of “plebe” (freshman) summer, a punishing seven-week program that turns young civilians into midshipmen, and eventually officers.

Clyde isn’t dwelling on his abbreviated vacation. Instead, he’s getting fired up for the coming experience.

“It’s going to be hard and seem almost impossible, but I’m kind of excited,” he said.

As for summer vacations, Clyde has plenty to look forward to. Students at the Naval Academy, or Annapolis, spend that time in training programs getting familiar with Navy and Marine Corps jobs.

A typical stretch could see him floating on a frigate one month and flying in a jet the next. Freshman typically end their year with a sailing cruise, often to places like Bermuda.

“I’m a little jealous, really,” said Clyde’s father, Brett Shaver. “I think it’s a great opportunity – an honor and an adventure.”

Brett is a former Marine Corps corporal. If he ever held a grudge against officers, he’s made an exception for his son.

“He’s a great kid looking at a fantastic future as a leader,” he said.

Clyde is the only student that Annapolis accepted from the Bellevue School District.

The Naval Academy is notoriously selective with its applicants, but Clyde’s resume included membership with the National Honor Society and fluency in three languages: English, Chinese, and Japanese.

In order to enroll at Annapolis, applicants must obtain a nomination by a member of the U.S. Congress or the vice president.

Congressman Dave Reichert nominated Clyde after an extensive application and interviewing process.

Clyde is already preparing for his first summer at the Naval Academy. He wakes up every day at 5 a.m. to run three miles, and also works out during practices with the Newport tennis team, which he captains.

“After my four years, it’ll all be worth it,” Clyde said. “The hard work will amount to something. I’m not just working toward the betterment of myself, but of my entire country.”

Joshua Adam Hicks can be reached at 425.453.4290.