Hi all,
I was recently pro rec'd for SWO, and I know there's a lot of lurkers out there who need help on where to get started for writing their motivational statements. Thought I would share mine to help yall out. Take it with a grain of salt, no one really knows what they are looking for or how much your statement actually weighs on your app, but the whole idea is selling yourself and being swocentric right?
My decision to become a Naval Officer has been long-engrained through my upbringing and further reinforced by my experiences as a working professional. It was never a matter of “if I would serve” but “when I would serve”. Growing up a first-generation American, I was constantly reminded how lucky I am to be here. It was not until I was older did I realize what this meant; that we are presented countless opportunities for one to be successful. I believe that this is something uniquely American. So, despite having unlimited career prospects, I have always believed that it is fitting for me to pursue one that would protect these American ideals and ensure future generations have the same opportunities I was given.
Much of this ambition is credited to my father, who despite growing up under a different flag, recognized the significance the United States Navy plays in protecting our freedoms around the world. This notion ultimately led him to swear an oath to defend a country he had never set foot on prior to recruit training. Through him, I saw what a motivated individual can contribute and take away from serving in the Navy. From all the different ways to serve my country, seeing this set the decision for me to choose the Navy.
My upbringing may have shaped my choice in military service, but my experiences as an adult has solidified my decision to choose a career path as a Surface Warfare Officer. During my time in college I was elected to serve as chapter president of my fraternity. This newfound leadership quickly taught me the complex demands required to successfully run an organization. Throughout my tenure, I learned how to delegate duty, deal in conflict resolution, and bear the responsibility of representing an organization. By the end of my time as president, we were able to pay off our chapter’s debt, quadruple our fundraising from the previous year, and achieve the highest GPA on campus amongst fraternities.
After college I worked in a fast-paced surgical eye clinic. With no prior experience, I quickly had to master technical skills I never thought I would be doing. I learned the importance of adhering to detail to safeguard a patient’s health. As a result of my quick learning, I was selected to learn further testing, being one of only two technicians performing electroretinography in the Washington DC area at the time.
The biggest takeaway I have learned from patient care was not just how to learn new things quickly, but more importantly how to compose oneself despite a challenging a situation. I learned the importance of maintaining a sense of confidence in anything you do. Any sense of uncertainty would easily be noticed by a patient and make them uneasy. A confident bearing would always assure them that they were getting care the best possible care. I believe this mentality is especially important as a future Surface Warfare Officer when it comes down to leading men and women.
My current work in medical research has brought me face-to-face with veterans from wars past and present. I have examined the effects of post-war injuries and led educational discussions on treatment for veterans. It is ultimately this experience that has pushed me to make the decision I am making today. Despite physical and mental struggle, I have rarely noticed resentment regarding their service. One commonality was knowing that their service contributed to the best fighting force in the world. As mentioned, it was never a matter of “if”, but “when”. I feel my talents have done all they can for me as a civilian and only prepared me for the next step as an Officer Candidate. I hope to continue this legacy and ensure the United States remains the best fighting force in the world.
The enthusiasm I have for this country and Navy would be the driving force for my motivation even in the face of adversity. My leadership through interpersonal skills, problem solving, and attention to detail would make me best suited as a Surface Warfare Officer. I believe this demeanor directly translates to what is needed to command and mentor sailors, enlisted and officer alike.
