A Conversation with Brad Myers ’22, MBA Student Veteran
Program: MBA, management concentration
Branch of Service/Rank: Army, infantry E5 sergeant
What inspired you to enlist?
My birthday is on 9/11 and, when the attacks occurred, I was in eighth grade living in Connecticut. Where I lived about 90% of my town commuted to NYC. From the beaches of my town, you could see the smoke. When that happened, I wanted to be a part of something. I wanted to go fight. Where I grew up, military service wasn’t valued much, but I always wanted to go in the Army. I went to the recruiter’s office during my sophomore year of college and enlisted.
Why did you choose to serve in that specific branch?
I’ve been around the same people my entire life. When you’re around the same people, are you really learning anything different? Are you getting any different experiences? I knew where I was and how I was raised was not reality. I thought the Army was going to help me get off the wrong path.
Is there anything you wish civilians understood about military service?
This year, the military has seen the lowest recruitment rate since before the draft. I wish that people understood what opportunities are available, and that they don’t know what the real world is actually like until they experience it in a different setting. I got to travel the world. I was a part of something. I’m close to all the people I served with. Now, that service has allowed me to get an education where I will walk away debt free. People are afraid they’re going to get hurt or get killed. There’s a mental toll but there are non-combat jobs and opportunities to learn what you want to do, and if you want to go back to school, it’s paid for.
Do you have any advice for other veterans?
For the veterans who haven’t used their GI Bill, college isn’t for everybody. But if you want to go to college, go to the veterans office, meet the people who will walk you through the process, and find out what you need to do to go there.
What are your future goals?
I look forward to being a contributor and influencer once I leave DeSales. I want to help people who may need guidance, are looking for their own opportunities, or are struggling with substance abuse or PTSD like I did. The best help veterans can ever get is from other people who experienced the same thing. I’m also hoping that having my MBA will help put me in line for executive leadership positions whether I stay at my current company or move on to better opportunities.
This November, DeSales is highlighting members of our campus community who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces. We appreciate all that you do.
