CAMPUS: Full Sail University
GRADUATION YEAR: 2018
DEGREE PROGRAM: Media Communications Bachelor of Science
LINKEDIN HANDLE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcardona
When did you join NSCS & why?
In November 2017, I made the decision to join NSCS because I was seeking a community of like-minded professionals who were dedicated to promoting academic excellence and fostering leadership skills. I was drawn to the honor society’s focus on professional development and its opportunities to connect with alumni and other members. I believed that being a part of the NSCS would provide me with the tools and resources I needed to achieve my academic and professional goals.
How did your time with NSCS help prepare you for life after college?
During my time with NSCS, I had the privilege of participating in various activities that helped me prepare for life after college. One of the most valuable experiences was the opportunity to engage in networking activities with other members and NSCS alumni on my campus.
What was the most important thing you’ve gotten from your time as an undergraduate NSCS member?
One of the key benefits of my membership with NSCS was the exposure to various workshops and seminars aimed at building critical career skills. These sessions covered a wide range of topics, including resume writing, interview techniques, and professional development. Through these workshops, I learned how to tailor my resume to specific job requirements, communicate effectively in job interviews, and enhance my overall professional brand.
What is the most important thing you are getting out of your time as an Alumni NSCS member?
I have the incredible opportunity to give back to the honor society and help other members achieve their full potential. As a mentor, I can share my experiences, insights, and knowledge with fellow NSCS members and provide them with guidance and support to navigate the challenges of college life and beyond.
What doors have opened for you since you became an NSCS member?
Thanks to my membership in the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, I have had the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of individuals who share my academic interests and career aspirations. Through this community, I have been able to meet other NSCS members who have pursued careers in my field of interest, and these connections have been invaluable in helping me to build my professional network and advance my career.
Where are you now since graduating?
I have had the privilege of working in the dynamic and challenging field of politics, and my experience in this field has been both rewarding and fulfilling. As an active member of the Democratic Hispanic Caucus of Florida, Seminole County chapter, I have been able to make a positive impact on my community and advance my political career.
One of my proudest achievements has been my election to the board of the Democratic Hispanic Caucus of Florida, Seminole County chapter, where I currently serve as President. In this role, I have had the opportunity to lead and support the efforts of a dedicated group of individuals who share my passion for advancing Democratic principles and advocating for the needs of Hispanic communities in Florida.
In addition to my work with the Democratic Hispanic Caucus, I have also had the opportunity to manage political campaigns for candidates seeking public office during election years. This has been a challenging and rewarding experience that has allowed me to gain firsthand experience in the intricacies of campaign management, from fundraising and outreach to media relations and voter engagement.
Through my work in the political field, I have developed a deep understanding of the issues facing our communities and the importance of effective advocacy and leadership. I am committed to making a positive impact on my community and advancing the values that I believe in. My experience in the political field has been a formative part of my professional journey, and I am excited to see where my career in politics will take me in the future.
If you could give a newly inducted undergraduate NSCS member advice on their path through their collegiate journey, what would it be?
If I had the opportunity to give advice to newly inducted undergraduate NSCS members on their collegiate journey, I would emphasize the importance of seeking out mentorship and guidance from NSCS alumni.
As a member of this prestigious honor society, you are part of a supportive community that is dedicated to academic excellence and professional development. This network of like-minded individuals can provide invaluable insights and support as they navigate the challenges of their collegiate journey and prepare for their future careers.
One of the most important steps you can take as an NSCS member is to leverage the resources available through the NSCS member portal to find a mentor. There are many alumni who are eager to provide guidance and support to current members, and the portal provides a convenient and effective way to connect with them. They should take the time to explore the list of alumni available and identify individuals who work in a similar field or have skills that could be helpful in their future careers.
If you could give an undergraduate student who is considering joining NSCS, what would it be?
If you are an undergraduate student considering joining NSCS, I would highly encourage you to do so. As a member of this prestigious honor society, you will have access to a wealth of resources and opportunities to help you achieve academic excellence and advance your professional goals.
From my own experience as a member of NSCS, I can tell you that this honor society has been instrumental in my own academic and professional success. Through NSCS, I could network with other members and alumni and work on professional skills such as resume writing, interview skills, and professional development. This helped me to build a strong foundation for my future career and opened up numerous opportunities that I would not have had otherwise.
If you are considering joining NSCS, my advice to you would be to take advantage of all the resources and opportunities available through the honor society. Seek out mentorship from NSCS alumni, engage with the NSCS community, and participate in events and projects that align with your academic and professional goals. Doing so can build a strong foundation for your collegiate journey and set you up for success in your future career.
]]>CAMPUS: California State University, Fullerton
GRADUATION YEAR:
- Bachelor of Arts: 2013
- Master of Science: 2017
DEGREE PROGRAM:
- 2013: BA in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting and Information Systems
- 2017: MS in Information Technology
LINKEDIN HANDLE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jphuong82/
When did you join NSCS & why?
I received the invitation to join NSCS Spring of 2010. I was not sure in the beginning, so I reached out to a Chapter President at my campus to inquire about the organization. She gave me an overview of the organization. I also did some research on my own to find the many benefits that NSCS offers to students and alumni. With the one-time fee that I had to pay upfront and the many benefits I received as a member, I was convinced to accept my invitation.
Were you previously an NSCS chapter officer?
I was not an NSCS chapter officer. But, if anyone who is planning to join the organization and has an interest in becoming a chapter officer, go for it.
How did your time with NSCS help prepare you for life after college?
My time with NSCS helped prepare me for life after college through the workshops and volunteering events that were offered throughout the semesters. I gain more knowledge on topics such as time management, organization skills, networking, etc. The volunteering opportunities allowed me to connect and network with others outside my business college.
What was the most important thing you’ve gotten from your time as an undergraduate NSCS member?
The most important thing that I got from my time as an undergraduate NSCS member is the skills and knowledge I gain through the organization. In addition, the connections that I made at the workshops and volunteering opportunities.
What is the most important thing you are getting out of your time as an Alumni NSCS member?
The most important thing I am getting out of my time as an Alumni NSCS member is networking because I get the opportunity to meet people locally and nationally. I also enjoy the benefits that are offered to alumni.
Where are you now since graduating?
I am currently working for the local government doing accounting and side of IT. I just completed my three terms as a Board Directors of the CSUF Alumni Association. During my three terms, I served as the Vice President of Programs and the Vice President for Community and Campus Outreach. I am now involved as an alumnus on the Leadership Alumni Board for the CSUF College of Business and Economic Center for Leadership. I am still connected with the CSUF Alumni Association and will volunteer from time to time when my schedule permits me to.
I am also still involved with NSCS. I continue to help review scholarships when the opportunity arises. In addition, I am involved in the Mentoring Program. I was briefly involved with the development of the alumni board for NSCS. But the planning for that stopped during the pandemic.
If you could give a newly inducted undergraduate NSCS member advice on their path through their collegiate journey, what would it be?
Start networking at the beginning of their collegiate journey. Networking will definitely not be easy or comfortable. But, sometimes, it is the connections made at the networking events that will get students their first job or their dream jobs. Reflect on each networking event to improve for future networking events.
Get involved on campus or in the community, if the schedule permits. Employers are usually looking for individuals who are well-rounded as potential candidates, so adding volunteering experiences or internships on top of being a student will definitely help an individual stand out from the crowd.
If you could give an undergraduate student who is considering joining NSCS, what would it be?
NSCS has many benefits for students and alumni, from scholarships to discounts for car rentals, theme parks, etc. The membership is lifetime, and there are no requirements needed to maintain the membership status.
The connections made when a student becomes a member last a lifetime. I met my best friend in college through another organization. But, when we found out that we both are also part of NSCS, that make our friendship bond even stronger.
]]>Campus: American Military University-American Public University System
Graduation Year: 2021, 2022
Degree Program: Associate of Science in Fire Science, Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Global Security.
Previous Officer Role(s): Vice President of Community Service, Co-Vice President of Social Media
Current Role: Alumni Advisor
LinkedIn handle: www.linkedin.com/in/lori-w-4568ba189
When did you join NSCS, and why?
I initially hesitated to join. I’ve heard that in some societies, you receive a certificate, and then that’s it. I did some future research, and NSCS seemed to be very involved based on how many opportunities are available to members. I joined in 2020, became an officer in 2021, and then became an Alumni Advisor in 2022.
Being an online student, I’m missing a lot of student interaction. I felt like joining a student organization would help to fill that void, while also opening up the opportunity to get scholarships, grow my educational network, and gain leadership experience.
Were you previously an NSCS chapter officer?
I was the Vice President of Community Service and Co-Vice President of Social Media for the AMU | APU chapter. I wanted to gain further leadership experience in a professional type setting. One of the most unexpected rewards while being a chapter officer was that our chapter was able to obtain a Gold Standing with the university, and we were sent certificates and pins. It was a great token of appreciation, and it is something I can add to my resume. My best advice to any current undergraduate member who is considering joining their officer board is to Go for it! I, personally, felt like we had a ton of fun, even if it was during a meeting. We were always able to share a few laughs and jokes while moving toward a common goal of development & growth. Plus, we were able to promote personal interests that we have.
How did your time with NSCS help prepare you for life after college?
I have professional documented experience in three different roles with NSCS. Some of which I have previously done with other organizations. For instance, this is at least the third organization I’ve done something community service or volunteer coordination related. I feel that I would be able to apply what I’ve learned in a career-based setting performing those duties.
What was the most important thing you’ve gotten from your time as an undergraduate NSCS member?
Be yourself. We are all unique in our own ways, and we all have our own strengths and weaknesses. Pair up with other members and act in a mentor/mentee relationship to gain further knowledge.
What is the most important thing you are getting out of your time as an Alumni NSCS member?
I have built amazing friendships due to my time with NSCS. Not only that, but I also now have a group of people I can network with. We share job postings, resume tips, and so much more. We want to see each other succeed and help in any way possible.
What doors have opened for you since you became an NSCS member?
I’ve been able to gain leadership experience and grow my educational network. However, doors don’t’ open just because you’re a member. It’s important to be engaged and do a little extra work here and there.
Where are you now since graduating?
I “took some time off.” And by that, I mean from university. I became a Nationally Registered Paramedic, I’ve attended Fire Officer I and II, and Fire Instructor II, I’ve helped train the cadets going through the fire academy, and I now serve as the Training Officer at my station. Hint, hint – volunteer coordination. I also started my master’s degree, in January.
If you could give a newly inducted undergraduate NSCS member advice on their path through their collegiate journey, what would it be?
Don’t sit on the sidelines. If you want to be an officer, go for it. There are so many opportunities. We have officers, and we also have chairs. Chair positions are still an officer but in more of an assistant capacity.
If you could give an undergraduate student who is considering joining NSCS, what would it be?
I believe NSCS is worth joining; it has something for everyone. My chapter is creating interest groups to engage with our members more and give everyone an opportunity to promote their interests. There are also a ton of opportunities to do community service, which I hold very personally. There are also options for personal development.
Campus: New Mexico State University- Las Cruces, NM I also Attended DACC- NMSU Community College-Las Cruces, NM
Graduation Year: May 2015 from NMSU Main Campus and May 2014 DACC-NMSU Community College
Degree Program: May 2015 NMSU Main Campus- Bachelor of Individualized Studies with a Minor in Sociology-Honors-3.978 GPA May 2014 Associate of Arts-Meritorious.
Scholarship Recipient: All New Mexico Academic Team-Honored by the New Mexico House of Representatives-51st Legislature, Second Session 2014 Santa Fe, NM.
I joined NSCS on January 22, 2014
NSCS encouraged professionalism and individual development on every level of the academic spectrum. These practices, coupled with my desire to be the best I can be, helped me to apply myself and set goals that were attainable.
The most important thing I received from NSCS was a support system that believed in me and was genuinely built with others in mind. NSCS truly cares about your future and helping students reach their goals.
Since I graduated, I have been able to apply myself in ways I never thought possible. Commitment to excellence, dedication to goals, and simply priding myself on being the best I can be and using my academic skills and business ethics have led me to a flourishing career as a professional actor in mainstream Hollywood. So much of what we do along our academic journey follows us in our daily lives and the careers that many of us find ourselves thrust into upon graduating. Learning to trust our instincts and believe in our abilities is a huge factor in our future success, and being part of NSCS has given me skills I never knew I was lacking. I owe a huge debt of gratitude to those who took an interest in my academic journey and personal development.
If you are a new inductee or someone contemplating becoming a member of NSCS, I would strongly encourage you to take the leap of faith. There are so many reasons to become part of a supportive community that puts people and their success first. No matter your goals, the skills you pick up and the opportunities that come as a result are worth all the effort. Invest in your future because you are worth it.
Trust Me. I know.
Lester G. Reynolds-NSCS Alumni and Professional Hollywood Actor
]]>Education Institution: Full Sail University
Expected Graduation Year: 2023
Degree Program: BS in Communications; Digital Marketing
Current Officer Role(s): Chapter President
LinkedIn profile: www.linkedin.com/in/chauntasharp
When did you join NSCS?
I joined NSCS in early 2021.
What made you become a chapter officer?
Well, when it started, the president at the time reached out to me and said he needed my help. Originally it was to help stream the meetings, but then he put me on the social media team. So, I guess it just kind of happened. It was meant to be.
What was the most unexpected reward you received as an officer so far?
I would have to say this spotlight is the most unexpected reward. I am so honored to be recognized. It already feels good to go hard for something you believe in, recognition is a bonus that I do not take lightly. I am truly grateful.
What is the most important thing you’ve gotten from your time as an undergraduate NSCS member?
The most important thing I have gotten from my time as an undergraduate NSCS member is connections to some valuable individuals and confidence to take on challenges that I may not have taken on previously.
How has your time with NSCS helped prepare you for life after college so far?
NSCS has helped me to get out and start networking more. My Anxiety has kept me from doing many things that I want to do. The opportunity to lead with NSCS helped me to open up a lot more. In addition, I have been able to refine the skills that I am currently attaining in school.
Where do you see yourself after you graduate?
When I graduate, I would like to start my career as a freelance Digital Marketing professional. I would like to help music professionals with their digital marketing strategies and planning.
If you could give a newly inducted undergraduate NSCS member advice on their path through their collegiate journey, what would it be?
Take advantage of all the opportunities available to you through NSCS. What you get out of your membership is completely up to you. Don’t cheat yourself.
If you could give an undergraduate student who is considering joining their NSCS chapter’s leadership team, what would it be?
The first thing I would tell them is that it is not a scam! We know that is always the first thought. The next thing I would say is, “what do you have to lose?” You pay a one-time fee for a lifetime of opportunities and connections. Since we know that success requires us all to build relationships, why wouldn’t you want to be connected to over 1,000000 other scholars? Who knows, the connections you make through NSCS may be your “foot into a door” you never even dreamed you would be able to walk through.
Graduation Year: 2016, 2017
Degree Program: Master of Design in Interaction Design (5+1 Program), Master of Education in Technology, Innovation, and Education
Previous NSCS Roles: I was a TalkNerdy2Me Blog Contributor and NHFA Scholarship Committee Member.
LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/bnesto
When did you join NSCS?
I joined NSCS in 2012 when I was a sophomore at the University of Cincinnati. Why did I join? I must’ve thought the world was ending! In addition to that, I considered myself… well, a collegiate scholar! I saw the title of the group one day when browsing the web and immediately researched the organization, and the rest is history.
How did your time with NSCS help prepare you for life after college?
NSCS prepared me for post-college life by taking my ambition and peppering it with purpose. Before NSCS, I really just wanted to achieve something cool, but after getting involved, I began to connect the dots, so to speak, when it came to my interests and overall desire to cause impact.
What was the most important thing you’ve gotten from your time as an undergraduate NSCS member?
The most important thing I gained from my time as an undergraduate NSCS member was confidence. Having a network, I can rely on for support, guidance, and mentorship has been critical to my experiences and successes.
What is the most important thing you are getting out of your time as an Alumni NSCS member?
Resources! The online portal offers so many ways to stay involved. I can brush up on tips regarding how to be both professional and approachable. I can get discounts on conference travel. I can even find scholarships for alumni. These resources are cogent and super helpful.
Where are you now since graduating?
I am currently a designer working for Medicare, as well as a professor at the University of Cincinnati. I recently traveled to Minneapolis, Minnesota, to attend the ever-interesting (and beautifully bizarre) Eyeo Festival. It was phenomenal. I will absolutely be returning in the coming years. Lately, I have been actively brainstorming my future using sticky notes. (Hint hint: I am Perfectly Happy Desiring more education)
If you could give a newly inducted undergraduate NSCS member advice on their path through their collegiate journey, what would it be?
Escape your bubble by joining extracurriculars COMPLETELY different from your major. Don’t just intern once; intern as much as you think you can. Intern in other states and countries. Minor in something. Shake your professor’s hand. Oh! And go to parties 
If you could give an undergraduate student who is considering joining NSCS advice, what would it be?
If you don’t like access to a myriad of scholarships and internship opportunities, or resources that can help you find the perfect graduate school, or discounts on education and entertainment, or leadership-building materials, then don’t sign up. But, if you love these things—and I think you do—nominate yourself. You will be like me, looking back happily on these undergraduate years and realizing NSCS was 100% worthwhile.
Education Institution: DePaul University
Expected Graduation Year: 2024
Degree Program: Bachelor’s degree (BA), DePaul’s Undergraduate Criminology Program
Current Officer Role(s): Chapter Peer | Student Advisor, Interim Executive Vice President
LinkedIn profile: www.linkedin.com/in/gabriel-goldberg-a3ba48233
When did you join NSCS?
I joined the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS) on March 19, 2021. Since then, I have been a life member of the DePaul NSCS Chapter.
What made you become a chapter officer?
Coming from a family of service and community-oriented individuals impacted my desire to make a positive difference in my community. I have always been taught that if I know that I can make a positive difference, then I must stand up and be counted. To me, becoming an officer was a big way to help make a difference. NSCS has amazing leadership opportunities, including mentoring and charitable programs. I feel that I get as much as I give.
As a student at DePaul University, I have been taught the Vincentian question of “What must be done?” and how to answer it, and officer of NSCS, I am tasked with upholding the three pillars of scholarship, leadership, and service while exemplifying integrity, service, and growth.
What was the most unexpected reward you received as an officer so far?
The most unexpected reward that I have received is my time serving as an officer on the DePaul NSCS Executive Board and assisting them in achieving the Platinum Star Status in 2021-2022. The next would be this nomination for Chapter Officer Spotlight for the month of September.
What is the most important thing you’ve gotten from your time as an undergraduate NSCS member?
The most important “thing” that I have gotten from my time as an undergraduate NSCS life member would be my framed NSCS certificate of membership. Being a role model for others is never easy, and neither is being part of the higher standing individuals academically. However, I have found that the more I know, the more I can help and inspire others in my community. This can be by promoting education to creating a mentorship program to encourage high schoolers to continue to their academic college. Therefore, my certificate is my badge of honor, showing me that I have worked very hard not only for myself but for all the people I can help and inspire in the present as well as in the future.
How has your time with NSCS helped prepare you for life after college so far?
NSCS has prepared me for life after college not only with its vast resources but in its pillars as well. I will be able to use the skills I have accumulated through my time as an officer as well as a Peer/Student Advisor of the DePaul NSCS Chapter. These skills include leadership and service, which prompt me to continue to strive to serve society and make a positive difference.
Where do you see yourself after you graduate?
After I graduate, I see myself continuing my academic journey to either obtaining a master’s or a Doctorate from DePaul University. I endeavor to work in public service during this time and after I obtain my degree(s).
If you could give an undergraduate student who is considering joining their NSCS chapter’s leadership team, what would it be?
To the newly inducted undergraduate NSCS member, I am very proud of your accomplishments, having been selected to join the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. If you are to take one thing from NSCS on your colligate journey, let it be that when given the choice of serving and taking, you should be a giver, not a taker. It is the NSCS value to be community and service-oriented no matter what college or life throws your way. As an NSCS member, it is your integrity, service, and growth that fellow students, teachers, and future employers wish to see in people like you. These qualities will be what set you apart as a role model, and they will help build many vital skills which will, in turn, help you achieve success in all your endeavors.
Graduation Year: 2013
Degree Program: Communication major – emphasis in social justice & equity, diversity & inclusion, and multiculturalism; with a minor in Ethnic Studies (graduated Summa Cum Laude)
When did you join NSCS? I joined NSCS in 2011 as a Junior at CU Denver.
How did your time with NSCS help prepare you for life after college? NSCS began giving me a method by which to network while in college and, importantly, a network that could be grown after college. The camaraderie in the group helped me feel greater engagement and membership, allowing me to develop social and professional skills that enhance all my networking and bring about a heightened sense of belonging.
What was the most important thing you’ve gotten from your time as an undergraduate NSCS member? A sense of belonging to a forward-thinking group that cares about its members and their educational experience. As a non-traditional student, it was sometimes difficult to fit in, but NSCS welcomed me with open arms from the beginning.
What is the most important thing you are getting out of your time as an Alumni NSCS member? Very importantly, a method by which to network in a super friendly environment and grow as a person and a professional. There has been great support from NSCS for what I am about, and this support brings value and voice to me, allowing me to engage in bringing value and voice to others. A huge piece of this is allowing me opportunities to be a mentor to other NSCS members.
Where are you now since graduating? Since graduating, I have taken my education and experiences to new and high levels in my pursuit of equity & membership, diversity & inclusion, wellness, and simply love and care for others, as well as self. I have done this through my coaching and training practice and through growing myself within service to others. As this is a broad pursuit, it envelops my entire life’s sphere into a truly joyous lifestyle. Since graduation, I have traveled to Thailand and various locales near my home in Colorado, learning how to gain greater life balance while still achieving my goals and dreams and loving nature. My family life is wonderful, and I could not be happier with it or prouder of my family members!
If you could give a newly inducted undergraduate NSCS member advice on their path through their collegiate journey, what would it be? Please, engage in the activities and resources available to you. There are many, many great resources and people to help guide you through and support you, including NSCS. Become involved in activities and groups that help you grow as a student and a human being. Time in college goes very quickly, and it is important to develop a solid path as you move along. Work at an effective and productive pace in increments that have the space to expand your overall experience, guiding you through a wonderfully sustained experience in life. Start by feeling things out, then tighten your focus more and more as you work to define your present, leading you to a well-defined and adjusted future. And please remember to have fun along the way and enjoy your journey and fellows.
If you could give an undergraduate student who is considering joining NSCS advice, what would it be? It is important to evaluate potential memberships in various organizations to pick the one(s) that may be most beneficial. For me, NSCS has been one of the most inclusive and friendly environments I could have hoped for, especially as a non-traditional student. At times, we may try to predict or guess what an outcome may be, but I am happy that I took the leap and joined NSCS. Remembering all along the way that I must happily engage to reap the benefits. This process is most certainly not one-sided. If students are worried about the vision of a potentially long-term commitment to an organization, I say that NSCS makes it easy and pleasurable to stay committed and enjoy all the benefits of membership. Best wishes for success, students and potential NSCS members, and thank you NSCS!
]]>Graduation Year: 2021
I joined the NSCS in 2018 at Michigan State University while studying for my BS in Kinesiology with minors in Coaching, Graphic Design, and Health Promotion. My time with NSCS has provided me with networking connections that I am still discovering. Additionally, NSCS has given me distinction amongst my colleagues while giving me resources that have contributed to my success, especially webinars and programs geared toward success in college. I am currently in grad school pursuing a master’s degree in Human Resources and Labor Relations at Michigan State University. Additionally, I am coaching varsity shot put and discus for a high school track team.
If I could give new NSCS undergraduate members advice regarding their collegiate journey, I would say to use as many resources as possible that are available to you. College can be a difficult time in which you may feel alone. Programs such as NSCS help you remember that you are not alone. Instead, they provide you with resources and connections that contribute to your success and give you a point of reference to assist you in your journey.
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We are honored to have CeCe Batts as one of our September Alumni Spotlight members. CeCe’s dedication and scholarship to her community and self are what we all strive for. Thank you, CeCe, for being an NSCS scholar for life!
]]>Graduation Year: 2014
Degree Program: Bachelor of Arts in Intelligence Studies
LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jeffrey-arnold-sr-d-mgt-msm-89329860
When did you join NSCS? I joined NSCS during my sophomore year in 2012 while attending American Military University.
How did your time with NSCS help prepare you for life after college? NSCS has been an enormous factor in my professional and educational success since I graduated from American Military University in 2014. I have been able to attend conferences and receive scholarship opportunities that I would not have if I were not a member. I have met other members of NSCS at the other universities I have attended. This comradery increased networking and educational opportunities that I cherish to this day.
What was the most important thing you’ve gotten from your time as an undergraduate NSCS member? The most important thing I gained from my time as an undergraduate NSCS member was confidence. Having a network, I can rely on for support, guidance, and mentorship has been critical to my experiences and successes.
What is the most important thing you are getting out of your time as an Alumni NSCS member? The most important thing I am getting now is satisfaction in giving back to new NSCS members. Being a mentor and providing assistance and guidance for fellow scholars is something I take pride in.
Where are you now since graduating? Since graduating from American Military University in 2014, I have obtained a master’s and doctorate degrees. I moved from San Diego, CA, to Manama, Bahrain, and ultimately Honolulu, HI. I am active-duty military but plan to retire in the next four to five years and teach at a university.
If you could give a newly inducted undergraduate NSCS member advice on their path through their collegiate journey, what would it be? Utilize the resources that NSCS has to offer. Network and put yourself out there. Continue to work hard, hone your skill sets, and take every opportunity to improve yourself.
If you could give an undergraduate student who is considering joining NSCS advice, what would it be? I would advise future members to take the leap. Only positive things come from joining and associating oneself with NSCS. The resources include scholarships and networking. Internships and comradery are second to none. I have enjoyed my ten years with NSCS, and I look forward to continuing to serve future and current members.
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