Why FSU?

Florida State University offered me an opportunity to continue my education through distance learning and expand outside the scope of other universities. Due to my career, I needed flexibility with a university that provided ample support for those looking to achieve beyond even my own expectations and standards—FSU gives just that. FSU provides a unifying community of students and educators aiming to achieve the same mutual goals.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

Since I use my education in my everyday career, I have a drive to one day teach the material that I have learned plus experiences I have gained over the years. A master's degree in Criminology allows me to pursue those goals while also placing my career in a position of improvement. One day I hope to climb the ranks within my employer and further my education even more.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

I typically employ what I have learned from the array of courses I have completed in my law enforcement career. This approach is important to me as it gains a better understanding as to why humans behave the way they do and what rectifying tactics will or will not work to build a more productive and successful society. Understanding is far better than assuming.

Describe an aspect of your military service that is especially memorable or exceptional

I've been blessed to endure an immense amount of time in the military serving in the Marine Corps and Army. Through several combat/overseas tours, I have been able to grow, learn, and create a better version of myself. Apart from the experiences throughout the military, the abundance of friends made through the years are most significant; these same individuals I consider a forever family.

Tell us how your military service provided skills and experiences that you were able to apply to your graduate studies.

The military requires an individual to gain some independence and accountability. The high demands of discipline and expectations foster the ability to start and finish a degree program regardless of the education level sought. I do in fact owe the military for the drive for success and the discipline to push through until the end.

Career aspirations

Currently, I am living my career of choice—law enforcement. As a Florida State Trooper, I have been given an amazing opportunity to take what I have learned in the classroom and use it in my every day expectations. Although I have no plans to discontinue my education, I do plan (hope) to gain more responsibility and climb the ranks accordingly. As the time nears for me to retire, I hope to perhaps become an educator virtually to continue filling my own void and making further room for the ideas of others.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

This has been one of the best decisions I have made, and I would encourage those wanting to pursue a graduate-level degree to make ample room for the time needed to successfully complete it in a timely manner. Quitting has never been an option for me; therefore, if you start, never quit.

Accomplishments during graduate career

I have received an abundance of honors invitations from multiple societies. I have accepted one and plan to remain involved with the chapter's objectives. I've typically been an average student through the years; however, I am very proud of my 3.9 GPA.