I have been asked many times, “What made you choose West Point?” There were many reasons I chose the Academy. My responses ranged from the Academy’s phenomenal environmental science department, to enjoying the sense of purpose that becoming a military officer imbues, and wanting to be a part of something bigger than myself. Though all true, the reason that I ultimately made the decision to accept my appointment is that I wanted to challenge myself. I made a promise to myself that I would not live my life without knowing whether or not I had reached my full potential in every way that I could; physically, mentally, and intellectually. I have always been motivated by a desire to make a real difference and have a positive impact on the world, and, though an admittedly tough decision, the opportunity to attend The United States Military Academy at West Point seemed like a chance for me to do exactly that.
After spending a year at the Academy, I have realized that my goals are not entirely consistent with the goals of the
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The summer before my junior year, I had the privilege to participate in an internship that truly changed my life. It was in the backwoods of Maine, working to manually restore salmon habitats and National Park trails, that I realized my passion for the environment. That experience motivated me to become the founder of my high school’s Endangered Species Awareness Club; participate in a trip with the Green Club to Washington D.C. to lobby for environmental rights; and be an active member of the school Service Council. These experiences truly shaped my behavior from then on. I was recognized in the community for my love of wildlife and the environment, and I was encouraged to pursue that life