During my time at Old Dominion University (ODU), I enrolled in several classes that significantly contributed to my growth as a leader and team member. These courses emphasized practical leadership skills, collaborative project management, and effective communication strategies, all crucial for working effectively within a team. Through group assignments and leadership roles, I learned to navigate diverse team dynamics, delegate tasks efficiently, and foster an environment of mutual respect and support. These experiences have not only sharpened my leadership abilities but also enhanced my capacity to contribute constructively to team objectives.

(L) CPD 400 – Foundations of Leadership

I developed a robust understanding of leadership theories and their practical applications in the Foundations of Leadership course. This course allowed me to explore various leadership styles and strategies, enhancing my ability to adapt my approach to different situations and team dynamics. I focused on strategic thinking, learning to anticipate challenges and devise practical solutions. This skill directly applies to my goal of advancing into management roles within the maritime and defense sectors, where strategic leadership is crucial for navigating complex and high-stakes environments.

(D) CPD 408 Global Leadership

Global Leadership expanded my understanding of international leadership contexts, focusing on cross-cultural communication and global strategic planning. This course taught me how to lead diverse teams and integrate various cultural perspectives into cohesive strategies. These skills are essential for my career goals, as the global nature of maritime and defense industries requires leaders who can operate effectively across different cultural landscapes and align multinational teams with the organization’s strategic objectives.

(E) ENTR 301 FUND OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship cultivated my innovative thinking and risk management skills by challenging me to identify market opportunities and develop feasible business models. Being an Electrician’s Mate in the Coast Guard, I was able to use that knowledge to build a potential future endeavor. This course encouraged a proactive approach to leadership and problem-solving, which is essential for driving growth and innovation in any setting. In the maritime and defense sectors, where evolving technologies and shifting geopolitical landscapes present challenges and opportunities, innovating and managing risks is crucial for sustaining competitive advantage and achieving strategic objectives.

(R) MGMT 485W BUSINESS POLICY AND STRATEGY

In Business Policy and Strategy, I honed my strategic analysis and decision-making skills through rigorous case studies and simulation exercises. This course taught me how to evaluate complex scenarios and make informed decisions that align with long-term business goals. As I transition into management roles in the defense and maritime industries, these skills will enable me to contribute to organizational strategy, ensuring that operations are aligned with overarching business objectives and responsive to industry trends.

Experience earned as an Elective

During my tenure at Truestone and through Akima’s PM Excellence program, my experience embodied the LeADERS distinction’s high-impact learning characteristics. Intentionally, the program integrated content and activities that enhanced my management capabilities, preparing me for a logistics manager role and grooming me for deputy project management. It offered authentic, real-world scenarios that directly influenced operational efficiency and strategic planning within the company. Interactively, it fostered collaboration and mentorship, connecting me with senior managers for feedback and guidance. Reflectively, the program encouraged me to analyze and apply learned concepts to improve project outcomes and professional growth. This experience not only contributed to my skill enhancement but also to the tangible success of projects under my leadership, embodying the essence of active, high-impact learning at ODU.