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 enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 2010 at 19 years old. My first assignment was at Joint Base Lewis–McChord, Washington, where I worked in finance and accounting for two years. I wanted a more direct role in the mission and earned a spot at the 304th Rescue Squadron in Portland, Oregon. After three years of pararescue training, I returned to Portland as a PJ, conducting local rescue missions, deploying once to Iraq, and traveling frequently for missions around the world. I left active duty in 2017 but continue to serve as a reserve pararescueman, with two combat deployments since 2020.
The most important aspects of my service are purpose and people. The Air Force gave me a profound sense of meaning at a young age and still does today. Just as important, I’ve had the privilege of serving alongside teammates who continually inspire me with their professionalism, grit, and humility.
What are your thoughts on mentoring other students while at Vanderbilt? As a role model, what values do you want to share?
I know my successes are the result of mentors who invested in me, and I want to do the same for others at Vanderbilt. The military taught me the value of integrity, constant self-improvement, and service above self. Mentorship through Bass is a way to both live those values and pay them forward.
While at Vanderbilt, what will be the focus of your studies and how do you plan to use this knowledge in your future career?
My focus will be on strategy and operations, with an emphasis on healthcare. I want to strengthen my problem-solving, analytical, and leadership skills to transition from rescue operations into business. Over the long term, I plan to start my career in strategy and eventually build a company that prioritizes both performance and social impact.
What would you tell other veterans about the Bass Military Scholars Program?
What matters most to me about the Bass Military Scholars program is the community. It connects me with veterans who still feel a responsibility to serve and who push each other to find purpose beyond ourselves. The financial freedom it provides is important, but even more valuable is the chance to be part of a mission-driven group that keeps service at the center of our lives.
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?
- Mentor, Service to School