Hometown: Mechanicsville, VA
Major: Vessel Operations and Technology
Anticipated Graduation Year: 2022
Why did you choose to attend Maine Maritime, being all the way from Virginia? I chose MMA because of the small school atmosphere and the cozy home town the surrounds the campus. I knew coming to a small niche school would be extremely beneficial! One of my most valued things I am able to do is get one-on-one help from my captains or professors.
Why did you choose Vessel Operations & Technology for a major? I never wanted to be on big cargo ships or anything like that and my main focus were tug boats. The VOT program was perfect for my dreams and goals. I still got my bachelor’s degree and a 1600 mates license. This program is also directed more towards the tow boat and small cruise ship side of the industry, which was perfect for me!
What first got you interested in cross country? Back in my sophomore year of high school, I had by friend bugging me for months to join the cross-country team. I didn’t want to because I didn’t think I could run. Finally, I caved in and joined my high school XC team in 2014. It was one of the best decisions I made. I ended up loving running and loved the team atmosphere. When coming to Maine Maritime, there was no doubt that I wouldn’t join the cross-country team.
Tell us about something outside of Mariners Athletics that you are really interested in? I am really interested in the SS United States. She is the crowning maritime achievement of the 20th century and an important piece of history that must be saved. I keep a very close eye on this topic and try to get involved in helping save this ship. Though I can’t do a ton to help, I really enjoy being part of the process.
Who on campus has made the biggest impact on you? Coach King made the biggest impact on my life here! He is someone I always went to for advice, to talk to, or just to make my day better. Coach King is a large reason why my transition of leaving home for the first time was less strenuous then it could have been!
What will you miss most about Maine Maritime? I will miss being a part of the school experience every day. I will also miss my friends and all the MMA staff who I’ve come to know well over these last 4 years!
 Tell us about a summer experience related to Maine Maritime. My first summer I worked with American Cruise Lines out in Seattle, WA and in Southeast Alaska. It was such a great experience. The next summer job I had was on a tug boat pulling a barge from Seattle, WA to ports all over Alaska. That was another priceless experience.
What you’re your favorite part about being on the Men’s Cross-Country team? My favorite part about being on the cross country team is the comradery! It’s something that makes all teams special!
What are your hopes for the future? To go back to American Cruise Lines as a mate and work my way to captain. Or become an officer in the Coast Guard.
What motivates you to succeed? Envisioning my future and what this hard work will do for me, my current family, and my future family (kids).
What advice would you give incoming freshmen? Be excited for this unique experience you are going to get. It really is like nothing else your friends at a regular college would get. Also, take pride in being a student here, it really keeps your motivation up and makes you want to work hard. Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help in classes or anything. That’s what is great about a small school, you can actually get help easily.
How did you balance academics and athletics? It may sound silly, but I make a ‘Plan of the Day’ for myself. It helps me not forget to do anything and gives me goals to reach every day.
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