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Motivational Statement MEGA Thread

NoobFinder

New Member
Hello, I would like critique on my motivational statement.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I want to become a Navy officer because I believe in service that goes beyond self-interest: service to a mission, to a team, and to a legacy that upholds the values of honor, courage, and commitment. What inspires me most is the opportunity to lead by example and to take responsibility for the well-being and success of others. I’ve always admired leaders who put their people first, who understand that the strength of any team lies in trust and shared purpose. That’s the kind of leader I aspire to be.

The stories of great American heroes who served in the U.S. Navy have inspired me ever since I first learned of them. For example, figures like Captain John Paul Jones and Admiral Chester William Nimitz, show me what it means to rise to the occasion, often in the face of overwhelming odds. Their examples remind me that leadership is about making hard decisions, sometimes sacrificing personal comfort or recognition for the greater good. That’s a mindset I’ve always tried to live by, and it’s one I want to bring to the Navy as an officer. I want to be the kind of leader that you can trust, someone who listens, understands one’s needs, and works tirelessly to ensure one’s set up for success, both on and off duty.

It’s about being part of something much bigger, contributing to the security and success of our great nation, and ensuring that everyone feels valued and empowered. I don’t take lightly the responsibility that comes with leadership, especially in an organization as storied and vital as the U.S. Navy. With tensions rising across the world due to the bellicose attitudes of certain authoritarian regimes, I feel even more compelled to do my utmost to help deter aggression abroad to keep my loves ones at home in the U.S. safe and sound. If given the honor to lead, I’ll commit myself fully to the mission and to the men and women who entrust me with their efforts, their safety, and their futures.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Is this too short/long? Anything else? Rewrite the whole thing, please do not hold back!
 

FormerRecruitingGuru

Making Recruiting Great Again
Is this too short/long? Anything else? Rewrite the whole thing, please do not hold back!

We don’t even know what you’re applying for.

Just be more direct. “I am ready to become an ___ officer (or just leave officer if applying for multiple programs) and this is why….”
 

exNavyOffRec

Well-Known Member
Hello, I would like critique on my motivational statement.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I want to become a Navy officer because I believe in service that goes beyond self-interest: service to a mission, to a team, and to a legacy that upholds the values of honor, courage, and commitment. What inspires me most is the opportunity to lead by example and to take responsibility for the well-being and success of others. I’ve always admired leaders who put their people first, who understand that the strength of any team lies in trust and shared purpose. That’s the kind of leader I aspire to be.

The stories of great American heroes who served in the U.S. Navy have inspired me ever since I first learned of them. For example, figures like Captain John Paul Jones and Admiral Chester William Nimitz, show me what it means to rise to the occasion, often in the face of overwhelming odds. Their examples remind me that leadership is about making hard decisions, sometimes sacrificing personal comfort or recognition for the greater good. That’s a mindset I’ve always tried to live by, and it’s one I want to bring to the Navy as an officer. I want to be the kind of leader that you can trust, someone who listens, understands one’s needs, and works tirelessly to ensure one’s set up for success, both on and off duty.

It’s about being part of something much bigger, contributing to the security and success of our great nation, and ensuring that everyone feels valued and empowered. I don’t take lightly the responsibility that comes with leadership, especially in an organization as storied and vital as the U.S. Navy. With tensions rising across the world due to the bellicose attitudes of certain authoritarian regimes, I feel even more compelled to do my utmost to help deter aggression abroad to keep my loves ones at home in the U.S. safe and sound. If given the honor to lead, I’ll commit myself fully to the mission and to the men and women who entrust me with their efforts, their safety, and their futures.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Is this too short/long? Anything else? Rewrite the whole thing, please do not hold back!
To be blunt this tells me nothing about you. What have you done, who have you led, what will you do for the USN.
 
Hello All,

Here is my humble Motivational Statement. I'd love some feedback. Thank you for the help!

Competition and commitment to excellence define my life. I am applying for a second time to become a U.S. Navy Supply Corps Officer to gain unmatched leadership experience, tackle one of the greatest challenges of my life, and serve in the U.S. Navy. In return, I offer strategic thinking, commitment and efficiency honed through years in the private sector. Joining the United States Navy will also fulfill a deeply personal goal of becoming the first woman in my family to serve her country.

My grandfather’s valor in World Wars I and II inspired my dedication to service. As an 18-year-old immigrant, I arrived in the United States alone with a full college scholarship and a determination to succeed. Guided by my father’s lessons in discipline and perseverance, I planned a path to prepare myself professionally and mentally to compete for a place in the U.S. Navy.

Throughout my career, I have cultivated skills that align directly with the mission of a Supply Corps Officer. With bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting, I have developed expertise in auditing, data analysis, contract management and strategic resource management. At one of the world’s top four accounting firms, I gained deep insights into logistics and operations by auditing Fortune 500 companies, analyzing processes such as inventory receiving, shipping, and cycle counting. These experiences laid a strong foundation in supply chain systems.

In my current role as a senior financial analyst in manufacturing, I oversee $100 million in annual expenses, identifying trends and optimizing resources to reduce conversion costs. In Q3 2024 by analyzing and optimizing expenses related to direct labor, materials and overhead, I contributed to a 20% production volume increase while achieving a 10% reduction in conversion cost. Additionally, engaging directly with customers has strengthened my ability to understand and address needs with precision, while mentoring and training interns have deepened my leadership abilities, fostering a culture of accountability and teamwork that I aim to bring to the Navy.

Recognizing the importance of continuous improvement, I enrolled in the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) program through the Association for Supply Chain Management. This certification, which I plan to complete by March 2025, will deepen my expertise in demand planning, inventory control, logistics, transportation, and performance analysis, ensuring that I am fully equipped to excel as a Supply Corps Officer.

While I do not have direct military experience, my private-sector background has instilled in me a results-driven mindset where efficiency is paramount to profitability. My ability to streamline processes and optimize operations positions me to contribute meaningfully to the Navy’s mission.

Becoming the first woman in my family to serve in the U.S. Navy would be a profound honor and an opportunity to uphold the values of perseverance and excellence, and service that have guided my life. I am confident that my analytical expertise, strategic thinking, and determination will enable me to make meaningful contribution to the Navy Supply Corps.
 

drexelAVI

Well-Known Member
Hello All,

Here is my humble Motivational Statement. I'd love some feedback. Thank you for the help!

Competition and commitment to excellence define my life. I am applying for a second time to become a U.S. Navy Supply Corps Officer to gain unmatched leadership experience, tackle one of the greatest challenges of my life, and serve in the U.S. Navy. In return, I offer strategic thinking, commitment and efficiency honed through years in the private sector. Joining the United States Navy will also fulfill a deeply personal goal of becoming the first woman in my family to serve her country.

My grandfather’s valor in World Wars I and II inspired my dedication to service. As an 18-year-old immigrant, I arrived in the United States alone with a full college scholarship and a determination to succeed. Guided by my father’s lessons in discipline and perseverance, I planned a path to prepare myself professionally and mentally to compete for a place in the U.S. Navy.

Throughout my career, I have cultivated skills that align directly with the mission of a Supply Corps Officer. With bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting, I have developed expertise in auditing, data analysis, contract management and strategic resource management. At one of the world’s top four accounting firms, I gained deep insights into logistics and operations by auditing Fortune 500 companies, analyzing processes such as inventory receiving, shipping, and cycle counting. These experiences laid a strong foundation in supply chain systems.

In my current role as a senior financial analyst in manufacturing, I oversee $100 million in annual expenses, identifying trends and optimizing resources to reduce conversion costs. In Q3 2024 by analyzing and optimizing expenses related to direct labor, materials and overhead, I contributed to a 20% production volume increase while achieving a 10% reduction in conversion cost. Additionally, engaging directly with customers has strengthened my ability to understand and address needs with precision, while mentoring and training interns have deepened my leadership abilities, fostering a culture of accountability and teamwork that I aim to bring to the Navy.

Recognizing the importance of continuous improvement, I enrolled in the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) program through the Association for Supply Chain Management. This certification, which I plan to complete by March 2025, will deepen my expertise in demand planning, inventory control, logistics, transportation, and performance analysis, ensuring that I am fully equipped to excel as a Supply Corps Officer.

While I do not have direct military experience, my private-sector background has instilled in me a results-driven mindset where efficiency is paramount to profitability. My ability to streamline processes and optimize operations positions me to contribute meaningfully to the Navy’s mission.

Becoming the first woman in my family to serve in the U.S. Navy would be a profound honor and an opportunity to uphold the values of perseverance and excellence, and service that have guided my life. I am confident that my analytical expertise, strategic thinking, and determination will enable me to make meaningful contribution to the Navy Supply Corps.

Look up who the Chief of Supply Corps is and his top three priorities for the supply corps. Mention that in your statement around the second to last paragraph and you’ll have a stand out statement.
 

FormerRecruitingGuru

Making Recruiting Great Again
Thank you so much for the tip. I appreciate it.

Adding to this, I would also suggest reading Navy Reserve Fighting Instructions and learning more about the Reserve Supply Corps Community. You can even mention, "If selected, I would love to support ____ reserve unit or ____ mission" - it won't "lock" you into that job or unit, but it will show the board that you actually done the homework and are motivated to serve.
 
Adding to this, I would also suggest reading Navy Reserve Fighting Instructions and learning more about the Reserve Supply Corps Community. You can even mention, "If selected, I would love to support ____ reserve unit or ____ mission" - it won't "lock" you into that job or unit, but it will show the board that you actually done the homework and are motivated to serve.
thank you! I very much appreciate the help.
I have added that I would like to take part of Navy’s Exchange Service Command mission of providing customers quality goods and services for military personnel and their families. The suggested reading very much helped me gain a better understanding of the Supply Corps. Thank you!
 

memper001

New Member
Hello, Please scrutinize as much as possible for me to improve. Thank you for taking your time to read.

Growth both mentally and physically is a daily aspiration of mine as I do not want to regress or deliver less than my capabilities. I am striving to become a Cryptologic Warfare Officer, as I am committed to collecting up-to-date information and detailed planning. I believe heavily in staying well informed and having the necessary knowledge to produce the most optimal results with little to no errors. Through joining the United States Navy, I will not only gain leadership experience but will be useful to my country and the best maritime nation in the world.

I am a Navy Brat that has been privileged enough to have been aided through Calvet due to my father’s dedication and sacrifice. I can only attempt to comprehend the trials and tribulations he went through within the service as well as being separated from my family for prolonged periods missing many achievements in my life. However, the lessons and experience he learned from the Navy have been taught to me and my siblings making us more resilient and honor-bound. I want to contribute back to the same sector that gave my father the chance to start a life in America and aided in the completion of my degree.

While my Bachelors degree in Kinesiology is somewhat of a stretch from the occupation of Cryptologic Warfare Officer, these two concepts share a great deal of similarities. While finishing up my undergraduate degree, information collection and data analysis was imperative to remain knowledgeable of proper exercise routines for varying afflictions from injuries to geriatric patients and keep track of their progress. We needed to develop specific routines and explanations for patients and colleagues for them to easily comprehend, so that we could adequately inform them of their limitations and various restrictions. Additionally, we would plan months ahead for an agenda they could follow in order to meet a premeditated goal.

Currently, I am employed as a Customer Service Representative in the Navy Exchange, I have always had the best interests of both company and customers. I stay well-versed in our abundant policies but always take initiative to speak to my managers about guidelines that require revisions. I am a resilient individual and engage with unsatisfied customers when my coworkers need help to find the best resolution and work together with those same coworkers when I need help. Caring about the customers is a personal commitment of mine as they are veterans, active members, and family members going through similar experiences myself and my family went through. The best way I can aid others is being respectful, hospitable, and knowledgeable.

I am driven by a mindset aiming towards excellence in all of my endeavors and hold myself accountable when I make mistakes, as I want to deliver the best results. Moreover, I want to contribute to a noble profession I respect, rather than just myself. I am a proud American who wants to serve their country and defend the freedom of both America and allies on the open seas.
 

FormerRecruitingGuru

Making Recruiting Great Again
A few things.
1. Paragraph 1: Be more direct in the introductory paragraph, "I want to be the Navy's newest CWO and this is why..."
2. Paragraph 2: Remove "Navy Brat" and instead "Grew/growing up in a Navy family". Remove the Calvet piece, it's not relevant. Overall, i would start this paragraph with "Growing up in a Navy family... I have seen my father's service...".
3. Paragraph 3: This is a weird paragraph, you're essentially telling the board you're not qualified. Instead of taking a "half empty" approach, take a "half full" and show why having a STEM degree aligns with the program. Talk about academic / college accomplishments.
4. Paragraph 4: Get more into accomplishments. "I did ____ which attributed to ____".
5. Closer: Close the last 3 paragraphs and go for the final pitch.

Use Chatgbt to help brainstorm and strengthen your statement. Here's my suggested edits:

I am determined to become the Navy's newest Cryptologic Warfare Officer, combining my passion for data-driven decision-making, strategic planning, and problem-solving to protect our nation’s security. With a proven ability to analyze complex information, lead teams, and adapt under pressure, I am ready to take on the challenges of this dynamic role. My goal is to contribute to the Navy's mission by leveraging cutting-edge technologies and intelligence capabilities to outmaneuver adversaries and safeguard critical information.

Growing up in a Navy family, I gained an early understanding of dedication, sacrifice, and service. My father’s career taught me the value of resilience, adaptability, and honor. Observing his contributions to the Navy motivated me to build my own path of service. I want to give back to the institution that provided my family with stability and opportunities, enabling me to earn my degree and build a foundation for leadership.

My Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology honed my abilities to collect and analyze data, identify trends, and develop detailed strategies, skills essential for cryptologic warfare. In college, I completed a capstone project focused on performance optimization, analyzing large datasets to recommend evidence-based plans for improving physical performance. I also collaborated with peers to design data-driven programs, delivering presentations to professors and industry professionals that required clear communication and precise execution under pressure.
(Note: The bold is just examples.).

Currently, as a customer service representative at the Navy Exchange, I have demonstrated initiative, accountability, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment. I spearheaded a project to streamline inventory processes, reducing errors by 15% and improving tracking efficiency. I regularly assist leadership in revising policies and implementing process improvements, contributing to increased operational effectiveness. I also train and mentor new hires, ensuring they quickly adapt and perform to standards. My ability to handle complex customer issues, negotiate resolutions, and collaborate across teams has strengthened my problem-solving and leadership capabilities.
(Note: Bold is just an example).

I take pride in setting high standards for myself and delivering results through preparation, teamwork, and resilience. I hold myself accountable and continuously seek growth opportunities to better support my team and my mission. Joining the Navy as a Cryptologic Warfare Officer represents an opportunity to apply my skills and values to a greater purpose: serving my country and safeguarding its security. Thank you for considering my application.
 

memper001

New Member
A few things.
1. Paragraph 1: Be more direct in the introductory paragraph, "I want to be the Navy's newest CWO and this is why..."
2. Paragraph 2: Remove "Navy Brat" and instead "Grew/growing up in a Navy family". Remove the Calvet piece, it's not relevant. Overall, i would start this paragraph with "Growing up in a Navy family... I have seen my father's service...".
3. Paragraph 3: This is a weird paragraph, you're essentially telling the board you're not qualified. Instead of taking a "half empty" approach, take a "half full" and show why having a STEM degree aligns with the program. Talk about academic / college accomplishments.
4. Paragraph 4: Get more into accomplishments. "I did ____ which attributed to ____".
5. Closer: Close the last 3 paragraphs and go for the final pitch.

Use Chatgbt to help brainstorm and strengthen your statement. Here's my suggested edits:

I am determined to become the Navy's newest Cryptologic Warfare Officer, combining my passion for data-driven decision-making, strategic planning, and problem-solving to protect our nation’s security. With a proven ability to analyze complex information, lead teams, and adapt under pressure, I am ready to take on the challenges of this dynamic role. My goal is to contribute to the Navy's mission by leveraging cutting-edge technologies and intelligence capabilities to outmaneuver adversaries and safeguard critical information.

Growing up in a Navy family, I gained an early understanding of dedication, sacrifice, and service. My father’s career taught me the value of resilience, adaptability, and honor. Observing his contributions to the Navy motivated me to build my own path of service. I want to give back to the institution that provided my family with stability and opportunities, enabling me to earn my degree and build a foundation for leadership.

My Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology honed my abilities to collect and analyze data, identify trends, and develop detailed strategies, skills essential for cryptologic warfare. In college, I completed a capstone project focused on performance optimization, analyzing large datasets to recommend evidence-based plans for improving physical performance. I also collaborated with peers to design data-driven programs, delivering presentations to professors and industry professionals that required clear communication and precise execution under pressure.
(Note: The bold is just examples.).

Currently, as a customer service representative at the Navy Exchange, I have demonstrated initiative, accountability, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment. I spearheaded a project to streamline inventory processes, reducing errors by 15% and improving tracking efficiency. I regularly assist leadership in revising policies and implementing process improvements, contributing to increased operational effectiveness. I also train and mentor new hires, ensuring they quickly adapt and perform to standards. My ability to handle complex customer issues, negotiate resolutions, and collaborate across teams has strengthened my problem-solving and leadership capabilities. (Note: Bold is just an example).

I take pride in setting high standards for myself and delivering results through preparation, teamwork, and resilience. I hold myself accountable and continuously seek growth opportunities to better support my team and my mission. Joining the Navy as a Cryptologic Warfare Officer represents an opportunity to apply my skills and values to a greater purpose: serving my country and safeguarding its security. Thank you for considering my application.
Thank you! I appreciate you for taking the time to critique, I will be more direct and elaborate on main topics
 

nner95

New Member
Hello. I'm looking for a brutal critique of my motivational statement. I followed the template my recruiter sent me and had my father, who is an Army vet, look over it. He said it would be good enough for the Army, but since it is a different branch I wanted to get a second opinion. Thank you.

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To the Officer Selection Board,

I am applying for a Naval Officer Candidacy with the intent of becoming a Naval Flight Officer Candidate. I believe that I would be a strong candidate who would excel in the program due to having an extensive background in aviation as well as first-hand experience in leadership roles.

Since I first saw the US Air Force Thunderbirds fly over the school playground in third grade, I knew that I wanted to be a pilot in the US military. However, due to medical reasons, this was no longer a possibility. Not wanting to give up I began to look into further options that would still let me achieve the dream of flying in the military, that is when I discovered the Naval Flight Officer role. I may not be the one in control of the aircraft, however, I do get to fly and be a crucial part of the mission.

Having previously worked in a similar arrangement, I understand how the role and communication process might work. As an aerial photographer, I would coordinate with my pilot, or with other crews in the area, on where our flight path should be to collect the best data in relation to the contract specifications. However, there would be several instances in which we would have to change the plan while flying due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather or air space restrictions. In instances where we would have several crews in the same area, the in-air planning and adaptability would become more mentally demanding but more rewarding at the end of the day.

Another reason that I want to become an officer in the Navy is for the chance to motivate and lead younger personnel through the early stages of adulthood. In my previous role as a store manager over two separate UPS Stores I was allowed to mentor a small handful of young adults ranging from 18 to 23. In the few months I was able to mentor them, I could already see a drastic change from the first day they clocked into work. Having seen the positive outcome that I could have on a small group, I knew that I wanted to do the same on a larger and more meaningful scale.

A weak spot on my application would be my GPA for my Bachelor's Degree. When I had originally graduated I was led to believe that I would be finishing with a 3.3 GPA. Through the application process with the Navy, I learned that it was lower at 2.7. This was due to my younger self not taking classes that I felt were not relevant to my degree as seriously. While working full-time and completing online school full-time, I would put priority on the classes that I believed were more in line with the degree requirements. In contrast, putting less time and effort into the ones I deemed irrelevant. After graduating and working in the early stages of my career, I quickly learned that in the real world, there are no relevant or non-relevant projects or classes. Everything has some purpose or meaning, and while it may not initially be evident, later down the line, it will become clear.
Finally, the career goals I have set for myself as a Naval Flight Officer would be to advance my aviation skill set, gain more leadership and critical thinking experience, and then hopefully retire with a sense of accomplishment that I was able to do everything I set out to do as well as leaving a positive impact on at least one person’s life.
 

CoMa

Member
Good afternoon! Here is a rough draft of my motivational statement for my SNA OCS packet. I would appreciate honest feedback to see where I can take out, add, or improve certain things. So if it sucks, please tell me! Thank you to everyone who puts forth the effort to help others succeed; it truly means a lot.
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Being born and raised in Virginia Beach, Virginia, near Navy installations such as Naval Air Station Oceana, where I often hear the roaring engines of the F/A-18 Super Hornet, and Dam Neck Naval Base. I learned early on that freedom in the great and prosperous United States of America comes at a cost. The liberties enjoyed by every citizen are upheld through the sacrifices of the brave men and women in the United States military. Growing up, I was inspired by the strong military presence in my family. My father enlisted in the U.S. Navy at just seventeen years old, serving for twenty years until his retirement in 2006, and my great-grandfather, a U.S. Army soldier and Purple Heart recipient, served with honor during the Korean War. With these two role models shaping my early years, I quickly knew I wanted a career that would allow me to dedicate myself to a cause greater than my own. Being inspired by the Naval Aviators at local air shows and with my time working as a civilian contractor at VFA-106, I’ve set my sights on becoming a Student Naval Aviator in the U.S. Navy.

While getting my bachelor’s degree in business management, one profound question has stuck with me: Are leaders born or made? While some argue that leadership is an innate trait, I wholeheartedly believe anyone can become a leader with enough dedication, passion, and determination. Embracing the challenge to lead is a transformative journey available to all willing to face it. The role of a naval officer exemplifies what it is to be a true leader; however, it is no easy task. It requires strong leadership skills, rapid decision-making abilities, and mental and physical toughness. While I believe I possess some of these traits, the U.S. Navy will help sharpen my skills and allow me to inspire, lead, and motivate fellow sailors.

In May 2023, I was blessed with an opportunity to start working at NAS Oceana as a civilian contractor for VFA-106, the fleet replacement squadron for the F/A-18 Super Hornet. I was their youngest employee, being only nineteen years old; I worked as a Plane Captain, conducting pre-flight and post-flight inspections, ensuring that the aircraft was in proper condition and safe to fly for the Navy instructor aviators and student aviators. I would also be put in a position to lead a team of seven people to move military aircraft in and out of the hangar for routine or unexpected maintenance. Despite my young age, I always ensured I was doing the best job possible and referred to my training if any obstacles arose. This career also allowed me to work on the aircraft carrier for the carrier landing qualification. I remember vividly being on the USS George Washington, CVN-73, and was amazed by the teamwork and commitment of all the sailors to ensure that safety was the biggest priority. I was instantly hooked on Naval Aviation after I witnessed a Super Hornet flying in the pattern with such precision and catching the arresting wire on the deck of the aircraft carrier. After networking, being inspired, and learning more about the path to success in becoming a Naval officer through the aviators at VFA-106, I decided to return to college and focus all my attention on becoming a Naval officer.

Despite wanting to become a Naval aviator, my ultimate goal is to be a successful Naval officer first. Even though Naval officers only make up a small piece of the pie amongst the entire U.S. Navy, they must be able to lead, motivate, and inspire those who make up the backbone of the Navy. I want to lead others and be the one who sets a strong example to my subordinates and fellow sailors. I humbly believe my journey so far has provided me with the foundational skills and mindset necessary to succeed as a Naval officer and be an asset to the U.S. Navy. In my time playing sports such as soccer and judo, I have always enjoyed taking on the role of being a leader, improving my teammates, and helping them become better than they were yesterday. I am not just seeking a career but a purpose and a chance to contribute to the Navy’s motto: honor, courage, and commitment.
 

wax

New Member
Hello, here is my motivational statement for critiquing. Please don't hold back, thank you for your time and effort in helping others!

------------------------------------

There is a question I constantly ask myself: “Have I done enough? What impact can I make?” This question pushes me beyond my comfort zone and into new challenges. It compels me to seek discomfort, not for personal validation, but to ensure that I have done my best and learned along the way.

Leadership is daunting to anyone, including myself. Taking accountability and responsibility is not easy. It is something we all learn from a young age when we make mistakes and must own up to them. I take pride in owning that truth. This mindset has driven me to leadership roles throughout my life: as a high school tennis captain, an officer of a STEM club in community college, and the project manager of my university's drone organization, where I taught 10 members hardware skills. Seeing them apply those skills in internships was incredibly rewarding. Their success reflected my own growth as both a student and mentor, and I took great pride in being part of their academic journey.

Leadership, however, is a skill that must be continually sharpened. I strive to improve because leadership allows me to make a lasting impact on others, constantly challenging me to ask, “Have I done enough?”

Commissioning as a Naval Officer is the perfect opportunity to align my drive for service with my desire to learn. It is a way to give back and express gratitude for the opportunities I have that many others do not. An officer must have integrity, courage, and clear communication. These are qualities I embrace. The team-oriented nature of the Navy is incredibly compelling, and I know I am capable of making a meaningful contribution to my team and the Navy as a whole.

Cybersecurity is an ever-growing field, and I have taken steps to deepen my knowledge through certifications and coursework. I have built virtual computing environments on my own server, created APIs, and worked with security information and event management (SIEM) tools such as Splunk to understand network security. My interest in the field was solidified when I accidentally broke my own database on my university’s supercomputer. That moment sparked an excitement for problem solving in cybersecurity.

A key principle of strategy is that disrupting an opponent’s ability to communicate and operate effectively can significantly weaken their capabilities. My journey of learning does not end with my degree. Cryptologic warfare is a challenging field, and leading a team to defend my fellow service members or disrupt adversaries within the world’s finest Navy would be an incredible honor.
 
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