1) During my freshman year, I balanced two significant commitments: Air Force ROTC and NCAA Division 3 golf. Each represented a different aspect of my identity and aspirations. Joining Air Force ROTC wasn't just a decision; it was a calling rooted in my desire to serve and protect those I love. A sense of duty fueled this choice from a young age, as I wanted to be a pararescue officer. It was a way to contribute to a cause greater than myself, to be part of something honorable. The rigorous demands of Air Force ROTC and SWOC were not taken lightly; they required a considerable investment of time, energy, and discipline. Despite the challenges, I embraced them wholeheartedly, recognizing them as essential to becoming a leader and protector. 2) As I started my academic path, I was drawn to computer science. It wasn't just about mastering technical skills; it was about understanding the language of innovation and progress. Computer science offered a gateway to creativity intersecting with logic, where ideas could be transformed into solutions. Within this field, product management stood out to me. It was a position that required not only technical expertise but also strategic vision and effective communication. As I dove deeper, I became increasingly fascinated by the possibilities ahead. By being able to pursue this passion without the worries of paying off my school loans, I would be able to participate in local research in machine learning and AI and gain experience within internships to ultimately get me a job in the product after graduation. 3) Beyond academics and military training, I needed to make a difference in my community. One cause that resonated deeply with me was supporting homeless veterans, individuals who had sacrificed so much for their country yet found themselves in terrible circumstances. Partnering with local organizations and Det 867, I volunteered my time and resources to provide them with food, shelter, and support. Additionally, I took part in initiatives to clean up Norwich University's local town, recognizing the value of giving back to the community that had welcomed me with open arms. These experiences taught me valuable lessons about empathy, resilience, and the power of collective action. 4) Being a recipient of this scholarship. It's not just about the financial relief, although that would ease the burden on my family. It's about the opportunity to fully immerse myself in my passions and pursuits without worrying about financial constraints. This scholarship would allow me to devote more time and energy to training as a prospective special warfare officer, preparing my skills and preparing myself for the challenges ahead. It would also enable me to excel academically, pursuing my studies, research, and internships. But perhaps most importantly, it would provide peace of mind for my family, particularly my mother, who has supported me and my brother as a single parent. With the financial burden lifted, she could redirect towards securing our future, reducing her worries and allowing her to pursue her dreams and aspirations. Ultimately, this scholarship is not just an investment in my education—it's an investment in our collective future, one filled with promise, opportunity, and hope.

I have always been interested in computer science after seeing my uncle work as a cybersecurity engineer. But this interest intensified when I was an Air Force ROTC cadet at a military college. I had the opportunity to attend an Air Force presentation where an Air Force representative presented "Spot," a robotic dog powered by AI from Boston Dynamic that could inspect hazardous items or environments and participate in rescue and logistics operations. Seeing how advanced AI has become, I can see this being implemented in the military, cities, vehicles, and overall life. I also joined my university's cyber club, which allowed me to learn about cybersecurity and participate in the NSA codebreaker challenge and CMU's Pico CTF. I've grown more enthusiastic in my study because I've seen how innovative AI is with current real-world applications and how vital cybersecurity is in today's age. My dream job after receiving my degree would be to work in a financial technology company as a software engineer or security engineer with an end goal of going into Quantitative development at a Quant firm. I aim to combine a finance and computer science degree to deepen my understanding of the economic and technological world. In order to apply technology to the financial world as well as to potentially solve real-world problems through software development, AI, or cybersecurity. I believe I deserve this scholarship because it will help me achieve my future plans and long-term goals. By furthering my education in computer science and finance at Tulane University, I can work towards my career goals in the technological and financial world. I aim to make a difference in my community, and this scholarship will absolutely be the difference-maker when it comes to affording the education I need to do that and give back in the future.

Going through a freezing river fighting hypothermia while also getting yelled at. This is what Holtkamp, Solifsburg, and I went through during Rookdom. Rookdom is Norwich University's version of basic training. We met on the first day of orientation and clicked, and we later met Solfisburg, my best friend. We stayed together during Rookweek and stayed together during a 16-week training period. From getting smoked at 4 am to exams, we stayed together and helped each other as much as possible. We were nicknamed Rush Hour by our classmates. Some of our best moments were our trips to Boston, the closest airport to Vermont. Solfisburg's father would fly down, pick us up, and get us all a room, and we would hang out and enjoy the nightlife in Boston. These moments made me realize how fortunate I was to have two people I could rely on. Although I am transferring to Tulane University, we have planned to travel and meet during breaks. A moment that defined our friendship was during October 2023; we were woken up to pounding at 4 am by our cadre. As we exited our barracks, we felt the heavy Vermont rain and just looked at each other with a "damn" look. We were told to get on our backs at the bottom of Quitters Hill and do flutter kicks until we couldn't feel our abs anymore. Holtkamp, Solfisburg, and I were together during this PT and motivated each other throughout. We talked to each other and tried to distract each other from the pain. As we finished this workout, we were told to run, and we stayed together, still trying to distract each other from the pain. We were then brought to a field and meant to carry the boats and logs down and back. This moment stuck with me as my hands were cut from the asphalt; Solfisburg took his spare socks out and wrapped my hand so I had padding while carrying these heavy objects. This moment of help showed me how much we cared and looked out for each other. These small moments with these guys made me realize what it's like to meet and befriend new people. As we all had different opinions and backgrounds. That did not stop us from helping each other and becoming best friends. Although I am transferring, we have made sure that we will still meet up and hang out. I am glad to have two guys who are willing to do anything for each other and who will fight together through anything.