My transition from high school to the Coast Guard Academy was easy only because of one year of prep school education. I was fortunate to graduate from the Naval Academy Prep (NAPs) school class of 2018.I learned how to get through the academic course load along with all the military demands and the lifelong bonds I formed with my Navy counterparts.

At the Academy, I was on the Sandhurst Team and I was a Diversity Peer Educator. I was also a member of the affinity councils.

One of my most memorable Coast Guard summer moments was aiding a grossly overloaded sailing vessel with over 200 migrants in 6-8-foot seas and rain. While embarking migrants and setting up care for them, our cutter was also directing two Coast Guard small boats, one Customs and Border Patrol boat, and one HH-65 for a medical evacuation. The atmosphere reminded me of why I joined the Coast Guard.

In my spare time I like to run, volunteer with the local JROTC units in Portsmouth/Norfolk and shoot at the local gun range. I like to visit my parents and dogs in Orlando, FL when I can and my siblings in Jacksonville. I also have a twin brother in the Coast Guard!

If you’re thinking of applying to the Academy, find a mentor early and check in with them consistently. Be nice and kind to others and things will fall into place. You’ll be running into and serving with your classmates after graduation! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!