Sergeant E6 (Rtd), Reserve

Branch of service: Army

Years on Service: 5 years (Active), 7 years (Reserve)

MSU Class: Graduate

Major: Criminology

What was your role in the Army?

I started my service in the army as a military police officer. As a military police officer, I was tasked with enforcing military laws. Then I transitioned to human resources while in the Reserves.

Why did you decide to study Criminology?

It stemmed a bit from my fondness of the true crime genre. I have also been interested in the intricacies of the criminal justice system and then began researching on the psychology of high-profile criminals. I was intent on understanding what drives them to such actions.

How does it feel to be the first member of your family to attend college?

It has been an exciting ride from my undergraduate up until this time. This is my last semester in graduate school, and I have been grateful for the journey. My major motivating factor is knowing that my family is cheering me on and looking up to me being the first. Also, I have observed that my thinking patterns have changed after my exposure to education.

What piece of advice would you share with current/incoming first-generation college students?

School is tough, schooling is challenging. You will be subjected to a lot of rigors but in the end, it is highly rewarding.