My exposure to military life has come through firsthand immersion in elite programs that simulate the structure, values, and expectations of cadet and officer life. Participating in the United States Air Force Academy Summer Seminar and West Point’s Summer Leaders Experience provided me with a realistic glimpse into the demands of military service and the kind of leader I aspire to become. These experiences, combined with the disciplined atmosphere of the American Legion Jersey Boys State (ALJBS), helped me understand that military life is built not just on physical strength or intelligence, but on integrity, respect, and accountability.
At USAFA and West Point, I woke up at 5:00 a.m. for physical training, navigated tactical problem-solving exercises, and learned to lead peers under pressure. These programs weren’t easy—and that’s exactly what drew me to them. I thrived in the structure, the pace, and the sense of purpose. I had never attended a JROTC program in high school because my school does not offer one, but these summer seminars provided me everything I had hoped for in a JROTC-like environment: a trial run of military life, exposure to real cadets and officers, and the opportunity to lead with honor in a community that values service over self.
Along the way, I’ve taken time to research and listen to the stories of minorities in the military—Latinos, in particular. As a Brazilian-American and a first-generation student, I’m aware of the challenges that minorities have historically faced, from underrepresentation in leadership to the need to constantly prove one’s worth. But I’ve also seen how diversity strengthens our armed forces. Officers and enlisted personnel from all backgrounds bring unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches to an institution that must lead globally. At the Summer Seminar, I met cadets who shared my story—sons and daughters of immigrants, fluent in more than one language, and committed to both honoring their roots and serving the United States. These examples proved that I belong and that there is space in the military for leaders who reflect the full spectrum of America.
Looking ahead, I am honored to be on the path to attend the United States Air Force Academy and commission as a second lieutenant in the United States Space Force. I plan to serve in cybersecurity and space operations—fields that are essential to national defense in a rapidly changing world. But beyond technical expertise, I want to lead with compassion, discipline, and humility. My goal is not just to wear the uniform but to be a visible role model for students and minorities who may not always see themselves represented in service academies or the officer corps.
Military life is more than a career—it’s a lifelong commitment to something greater than yourself. My exposure so far has only confirmed that this is where I belong. I’m ready to serve, ready to lead, and ready to carry my story into the future of our armed forces.
I didn’t grow up in a military family, but I’ve always admired the values that service members live by — discipline, selflessness, and courage. My first real exposure to military life came through my high school’s JROTC program. What started as a way to challenge myself quickly became something much more meaningful. JROTC gave me structure, purpose, and a deep respect for leadership. It also opened my eyes to the Army National Guard — a path where I can serve both my community and my country while continuing my education and building a future for my family.
At home, I help care for my disabled, single mother. I assist with everything from mobility and errands to medical appointments and household responsibilities. These experiences have taught me resilience, responsibility, and patience — qualities that naturally aligned with what I was learning in JROTC. As I learned to lead a squad, conduct drill, and mentor younger cadets, I started to understand what it means to serve others not just in words, but in action.
Through my time in JROTC, I’ve learned about the long history of minorities in the military and the barriers they’ve overcome to lead and succeed. From the Buffalo Soldiers to today’s diverse ranks, I’ve been inspired by those who paved the way through determination and sacrifice. Their legacy motivates me to follow in their footsteps — not just to wear the uniform, but to live up to the responsibility it carries.
The Army National Guard appeals to me because it allows me to do exactly that. It’s a chance to protect and serve my home state during emergencies, natural disasters, and times of crisis — while also developing leadership, tactical, and career skills. The Guard’s ability to respond quickly, help real people, and maintain strong community ties is something I deeply respect. I want to be part of a force that’s always ready to support both neighbors and the nation.
My short-term goal is to enlist in the Army National Guard after graduation while continuing my education, possibly in business or public service. Long-term, I hope to grow into leadership roles within the Guard and eventually help others like me — students, caregivers, and young people from tough situations — see that service is a powerful way to rise. I want to give back, not only through missions and deployments but by being a mentor to the next generation of soldiers.
JROTC taught me how to lead, serve, and grow. The Army National Guard will help me take that foundation and build a future that honors my mom’s sacrifices, uplifts my community, and fulfills my commitment to serve with purpose and pride.
From a very young age, I always knew I wanted to be a part of something, something that would be bigger than I was. As I grew older and was more aware of the job opportunities I had in life, it became clear to me what that something was. The United States Army. After doing my research on the disciplines that are found in the Army I decided that I wanted to focus on Human Intelligence. How would I get there, was the question I asked myself everyday until I came up with my plan to reach my career goal.
Upon my research, I felt that the best way to obtain the job I want was to be awarded an ROTC Scholarship to a 4-year institution. Receiving this scholarship is very competitive and no easy task. I felt that joining my school’s JROTC would propel me as a candidate. After 3 years of hard work in the JROTC program I achieved the rank of Co-Captain in Raiders, CyberPatriot, and the Drill team. Not only was I the Co-Captain of these teams, but I was the Executive Officer of the entire battalion. Walking into JROTC I wanted a micro experience of military life, instead I found lifelong skills such as leadership, organization, and dedication. All good skills that boost my abilities of getting my scholarship.
As important as the leadership skills I’ve acquired are, education is the most important. My studies are something that I have always been quite dedicated to. The dedication to my learning has earned me numerous awards focused on my academics. I keep my course rigor quite high as well, this prepares me for the workload that will be expected of me not just in college, but in the working world as well. My education is important in general, but it's more important to me. With scholarships I will be able to earn a higher education along with my commission.
Why human intelligence? Human intelligence aligns with many of my skills such as analytical and critical thinking, problem solving, and leadership capabilities. This field will give me the opportunity to help stop bad people before it is too late, thus causing harm to my country, my people. Human intelligence will enable me to use the full capacity of my thinking in a productive way that will help people one day.
At the end of the day, my goal is to be someone bigger than myself, scholarships allowing me to go to college and commission will get me there. Ultimately my goal is to help people find solace and safety when they sleep at night. To help prevent immoral acts from harming not only my country but my country’s allies as well. I hope that with my commissioning that I will make the world a better place and it starts with scholarships.
