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 had the honor of serving in the United States Army for six years, including four years as an Infantry Officer with 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment at Fort Benning, Georgia, and two years as a Signal Officer with the 302nd Intelligence and Electronic Warfare Battalion at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. During my time as an Infantry Officer, I served as a Rifle Platoon Leader, Heavy Weapons Platoon Leader, and Executive Officer. In these positions, I led, trained, and mentored over 100 Soldiers in demanding operational environments, advancing mission readiness, developing future leaders, and ensuring operational success under challenging conditions. As a Signal Officer, I served as a Battalion S6 (Battalion Communications Officer) for an Intelligence and Electronic Warfare Battalion, where I established and maintained secure communications, implemented advanced technological solutions, and ensured the seamless flow of critical information to support operations. I served both in the United States and overseas, including joint training with the Japanese Self-Defense Forces. These experiences taught me to operate effectively in diverse environments, adapt to evolving challenges, and build strong relationships with partners.
What I value most about my service is the opportunity to lead and mentor others while contributing to a mission greater than myself. The Army instilled in me discipline, resilience, and adaptability that continue to guide me in my life and career today.
What are your thoughts on mentoring other students while at Vanderbilt? As a role model, what values do you want to share?
I look forward to mentoring students by sharing both my experiences in the Army and the lessons I learned while navigating undergraduate life. As a mentor, I hope to emphasize the importance of resilience and the value of persevering through challenges, setbacks, and even failure. I am equally excited to mentor ROTC cadets, knowing they will soon be entrusted with leading young men and women and shaping the future of our Armed Forces.
While at Vanderbilt, what will be the focus of your studies and how do you plan to use this knowledge in your future career?
While at Owen, I intend to focus on healthcare and strategy. I plan to leverage my education and leadership experience to launch a career in the healthcare industry. What I valued most during my military service was the opportunity to help others and make a difference, and I believe I can continue doing the same in the healthcare field. My passion for helping others, whether through a major hospital system, an insurance provider, or another healthcare organization, drives my commitment to improving outcomes and making a lasting impact.
What would you tell other veterans about the Bass Military Scholars Program?
It is a great opportunity to be part of a team of diverse veterans who share the common bond of selfless service. Transitioning to life beyond the military can be challenging, which makes having teammates like yourself truly remarkable. Being part of Bass feels like a calling, much like the military, where you contribute to something greater than yourself and make a meaningful impact in the community.
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?
- Member, Armed Forces Club (Owen)