Putting aside my academic goals, I walked away from a prestigious technical school to serve my country. The events on 9/11 and subsequent large-scale combat operations in Afghanistan compelled me to join the Army as an infantry soldier. Recognizing the impacts of quality leadership and the attributes of great leaders, I challenged and pledged myself to offer that leadership throughout my career. 

​

My military experience leading teams through training and nearly 60 cumulative months of deployments revealed the importance of leadership and communications skills. I have developed a passion for influencing and mentoring people. I believe leading is the application of teaching and I want to apply my experience and knowledge the same way in a high-school classroom.

​

Knowing that communication and leadership are essential to teaching, I am pursuing a master’s degree in communication and leadership studies. I believe that honing communication skills and applying my leadership experience will make a strong impact and a positive influence on students. I am aware of the challenges and shortages of secondary teachers and look to help and do my part in community service. I will strive to make an impact on students both academically and socially while directing them toward a bright future.