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 the United States Military Academy in 2017 and commissioned as an Infantry officer. My first assignment was with 1st Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division, where I served as a platoon leader and deployed to Iraq. After my time in 1st Brigade, I ran the Division’s Pre-Ranger program before moving to Fort Benning where I finished out my six-year career serving as an instructor for newly commissioned lieutenants in the Infantry Basic Officer Leader Course.
What I value most about my time in the Army is the people I had the opportunity to meet and the lifelong friendships I have made.
What are your thoughts on mentoring other students while at Vanderbilt? As a role model, what values do you want to share?
I am really looking forward to the opportunity to mentor other students while at Vanderbilt. Through sharing my personal experiences from the Army, I hope to cultivate a deeper appreciation for military culture and the values it instilled in me. As a mentor, I aim to impart lessons in leadership, resilience, and discipline. Drawing from my background as a student-athlete and the insights gained during my military service, I look forward to connecting with student-athletes and helping them develop the essential life skills necessary for success both on and off the field.
While at Vanderbilt, what will be the focus of your studies and how do you plan to use this knowledge in your future career?
At Owen, I will focus on Strategy and Operations and Analytics to prepare for a career in management consulting. By developing analytical skills and a strategic mindset, I aim to help organizations optimize their operations and drive effective decision-making. Ultimately, I want to leverage this knowledge to make a meaningful impact, assisting clients in navigating their strategic objectives.
What would you tell other veterans about the Bass Military Scholars Program?
The Bass Scholars Program is designed to assist veterans in their transition from military service while offering an exceptional platform to continue serving by promoting military values, fostering understanding between communities, and making a meaningful impact both on campus and throughout the Nashville community. Additionally, it connects veterans with a supportive network of peers who share similar experiences and challenges, creating a valuable support system during this significant milestone in their lives.