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 was commissioned as an Infantry Officer in 2017 and initially served in the New Jersey National Guard. I deployed to the Middle East as part of Operation Enduring Freedom- Operation Spartan Shield with the NJ National Guard in February 2019. Upon returning from the deployment, I transitioned to Active Duty and was stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. I was assigned to 2-327IN, 1BCT, 101st Airborne Division from July 2019 to August 2022.
I most value the friendships and mentorship that I gained while serving in the Army. Many of the friends that I made over my 5 years in service remain some of my closest friends.
What are your thoughts on mentoring other students while at Vanderbilt? As a role model, what values do you want to share?
I am very excited to have the opportunity to mentor other students while at Vanderbilt. I enjoy being able to bring my experience and leadership lessons to others and provide them with insights so they are able to avoid some of the mistakes that I made when first serving in a leadership position. As a role model, I will encourage others to ensure that they are earning and maintaining the trust of their subordinates, peers, and supervisors. I will also work to ensure there is a healthy environment for people to grow and thrive. I feel that having a team dynamic based on trust allows for adaptability and efficiency in all types of work.
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 intend to focus on Operations & Analytics, as well as Strategy, while at Owen. I feel that my experiences prior to coming to Owen, and the lessons I learn here, will allow me to advise and assist others to solve issues within their organizations. I look forward to helping solve problems for organizations that will save them time and money in the long run.
What would you tell other veterans about the Bass Military Scholars Program?
I would tell other veterans that the Bass Military Scholars Program will provide them with opportunities and connections that most other organizations and programs could not dream of providing to students. I feel that the opportunities to mentor both graduate and undergraduate students and assist the local Nashville community are unmatched and allow you to thrive as a graduate student here at Vanderbilt. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity and do not hesitate to reach out to any of the current scholars and we will tell you of the incredible gift that the Bass Military Scholars Program has provided.