Tell us about your military service. What did you do? Where did you serve? What do you value the most about your military service?
I served as an Infantry Officer and Green Beret in the U.S. Army, with assignments in the 101st Airborne Division (Fort Campbell, Kentucky) as well as 10th Special Forces Group (Fort Carson, Colorado). I’ve had the opportunity to deploy to Syria, Afghanistan, Lithuania, and Poland and witness key U.S. foreign policy in action. During my time in service, I’ve worked with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures to achieve common goals and interests. Undoubtedly, the men and women I’ve forged relationships with along the way is what I value the most about my military service.
What are your thoughts on mentoring other students while at Vanderbilt? As a role model, what values do you want to share?
In a similar manner to my time in service, I want to forge bonds and relationships with other students at Vanderbilt. I hope to share some of the lessons that I gained through my own experiences with others. I came from a community where actions speak louder than words, and I want to carry that tradition to Vanderbilt University. Through example, I hope to show the value of teamwork and the importance of connecting with people from any background.
While at Vanderbilt, what will be the focus of your studies and how do you plan to use this knowledge in your future career?
I am attending Vanderbilt University School of Medicine to earn my M.D. and train as a physician. I plan to continue my service to others in a different manner, this time through medicine and healing. I hope to bring the skills that I’ll learn at Vanderbilt back to the communities I’ve been a part of.
What would you tell other veterans about the Bass Military Scholars Program?
The Bass Military Program is an incredible opportunity to find the support and community that you need as you leave the service. The Bass community will understand the difficulties that you face as you make a significant change in your life in a way that other people may not comprehend. The people in this program will help you continue to find purpose through service to others, while making sure that you’re capable of supporting yourself.
Beyond your role as a Bass Military Scholar and Vanderbilt student, in what ways do you give back, support others, and engage with your community?
- Volunteer, Shade Tree Vanderbilt Clinic
- Member, Veterans Med Student Club
- Member, Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) Club
- Member, Global Student Surgery Alliance