As I grew up attending military school and ultimately enlisting in the Marine Corps, I learned the value of being an effective team player in the toughest of times and how to relentlessly pursue a job well done. In addition, I learned patience and awareness from my weekends hunting with my father and grandfather. These skills were a benefit while studying at Clemson University and during my horticultural internships at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University and the Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College. My time at these institutions provided me the knowledge to give back to my community through volunteering at local gardens.
I have found that my wide range of experiences has afforded me the opportunity to meet and learn from many different kinds of people. Through these interactions, I have discovered that three of the qualities that I value most are productivity, self-reliance, and humor. Caring for people, treating them with respect and making them laugh is the best path to being truly effective.