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 served in the Air Force as an 1A3 (mission systems operator). I was a part of the aircrew on the AWACS and my role was to help mitigate threats to other platforms in the air or on ground/water. I sat as part of a 3-man battle management team (BMT) which all worked together to perform this role and keep other platforms safe and on the correct course of action. I value the relationships I built most, and also the ability to perform under high pressure, which I think will serve me greatly as a nurse.
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 being able to share my experiences and be a resource for others while at Vanderbilt. I want to share how carrying forward military values can benefit you in school and make you a valuable candidate for future jobs. Being respectful, adaptable, and timely will serve anyone as they transition into civilian life and the civilian workforce.
While at Vanderbilt, what will be the focus of your studies and how do you plan to use this knowledge in your future
career?
The focus of my studies is in the nursing field. I am learning all the skills I will need in my clinical practice, as well as gaining insight on how I can be a resource to the underserved communities around where I work and live.
What would you tell other veterans about the Bass Military Scholars Program?
The Bass Military Scholars Program is an invaluable group of like-minded people that you can grow and serve with. The program is an excellent networking resource which is one of the most important ways to meet new people and find future jobs in the civilian world. This program is especially important to me because it allows me to have the funds to not work while in school which allows me the time to spend with my husband and daughter when not studying or in long clinical days.