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 graduated from Clemson University and commissioned as an Armor Officer with a branch detail from the Finance Corps in May 2017. My first stop was Fort Benning, where I completed the Armor Basic Officer Course, Army Reconnaissance Course, Airborne School, Ranger School, and Pathfinder school. I was then assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg and led a Cavalry Platoon during a deployment to Helmand and Logar provinces, Afghanistan.
I then assessed for service in the 75th Ranger Regiment and served as a Ranger Battalion Budget Officer for 2 years, deployed again to Jordan, and served as the Regiment’s liaison to the National Capitol Region in Washington, D.C. After completing the Finance Captain’s Career Course I returned to the 75th Ranger Regiment’s headquarters to serve on the regimental staff as the Deputy Comptroller.
My experience in the Army was world class, and what made it so incredible were the people. Men and women that wake up every day ready to do the toughest jobs, under the worst circumstances, in austere environments, for little to no recognition – just a sense of duty to Country and one another. The relationships that I formed during my time in service are among the most impactful of my life.
What are your thoughts on mentoring other students while at Vanderbilt? As a role model, what values do you want to share?
I truly owe a lot to the people that helped me, and my goal is to emulate them as a student mentor. I’ll always extend a hand to those in need and encourage them to pay it forward. I strive to lead by example, inspiring others to grow personally and professionally through a life rooted in discipline, integrity, and respect for self and others.
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 plan to pursue concentrations in Operations & Strategy and Analytics in preparation for a career in Consulting. Leveraging my experiences in military operations, resource management, and leadership combined with the technical expertise provided by Owen’s MBA curriculum will position me well to immediately add value as a consultant. Additionally, Consulting will allow me to continue to do what I found most fulfilling in the Army – being a member of an elite team organized around the toughest problems.
What would you tell other veterans about the Bass Military Scholars Program?
If you’re anything like me, hanging up the uniform wasn’t an easy decision. I view the Bass Military Scholars Program as an opportunity to continue our mission, continue to honor the oath that we swore, and surround yourself with equally motivated and talented individuals. I also thought my transition would be smoother than it was. Having access to the resources and network of this program helped my family and I tremendously. Bottom line: if you’re considering Vanderbilt as your next stop – apply to this program.
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)
- Member, Golf Club
- Member, Owen Partner’s Association
- Member, Strategy and Consulting Club (Owen)