MSgt/Master Sergeant

What do the words "only human" mean to you?

Only human represents the imperfections of a person. It means that I can make mistakes, both big and small, and know that the mistakes won’t break me. That my mistakes don’t define me.

What are you passionate about?

My family and my career. I love being able to spend time with them even though the military doesn’t always allow for that. I’ve been serving almost 15 years and I still wake up every day loving it. I have a passion for people and the military has allowed me to serve those and do the best I can.

What makes you the happiest?

Spending time with my friends and family. I have the best support system.

In the last five years, what new belief, behavior, or habit has most improved your life?

I’ve learned that it’s okay to be vulnerable. I used to constantly have walls up and it took time for me to let someone in. I would keep my emotions bottled up and not communicate effectively. Unfortunately, it took my close friend and mentor taking her life for me to wake up. I know now that it’s okay not to be okay.

How do you keep yourself positively inspired during overwhelming times?

Exercise is a huge stress relief for me. I also have learned to take self care time in order to alleviate overwhelming times.

If you could spend a day in someone else’s shoes, whose would they be? Why?

I would spend the day as a nurse. I have always been an advocate for the healthcare community but after seeing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, I would want to be able to take their place and help where I can.

What book (or books) have greatly influenced your life?

Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins. His story is remarkable and shows that even in the worst of situations, you can overcome. I also love anything by F. Scott Fitzgerald.

What’s your favorite quote?

“All you can do is be brave enough to get out there. You fought. You loved. You lost. Walk tall.” I’m a big Grey’s Anatomy fan.

What is your most-used emoji?

What would be your advice to a human who just graduated from high school and was about to enter the "real world"?

It’s okay to make mistakes because it allows you to learn and move forward.