Well....I wouldn't know what it's like for Pilot Officer, but I am doing Officer Training right now for the Canadian Forces. I know that US Army and CF officers probably go about things differently, but there is one thing that remains common.
In order to be a good leader, you have to first be a good follower.
This means exactly what it says. You do your job and the people under your command will do theirs.
Either way, I wish you the best of luck getting into West Point and maybe I'll see you soon during the annual Hockey game between WP and RMC. (Where I am)