“I spent six years in the Navy. I enlisted when I was 17, right after I graduated high school, and had my parents sign off on everything. As an intelligence analyst, I went to Korea and Iraq, and then I spent time on an aircraft carrier. When I got out, I went to a community college and finished all of my core classes. I had to retake some classes from high school that I failed. I decided to move back to South Carolina to be closer to my family. They live in Landrum, about 20 minutes away from Furman, which is a big part of why I came here.

My dad knew exactly what Furman was, but I’d never heard of it before. I qualified for some great scholarships, so my tuition is fully covered. My experiences from the military have given me the discipline that I need to do the work. I have made the dean’s list every semester I’ve been here.

I’m using the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which helps cover the cost to come here and get my degree. I’m currently a history major – I figured that would be the most beneficial. I’m also thinking about minoring in some kind of political science, foreign policy, or something else I can tie into a naval career.

I’ve met other veterans here. I’m taking German right now, and one of my classmates is a Marine veteran. He and I swap stories all the time, and we are pretty good friends.

My plan is to return to active duty and serve my full 20 years. After I retire, I’d like to start something else."