The Anthony Reeves Experience

June often marks a celebratory time in many young people's lives, as it is typically the period when graduations occur. Across the country and around the world, students graduate from various educational levels, from high school to doctorates. This time offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments and milestones as they prepare to transition into the next phase of their lives. This spring was particularly special for me, as my granddaughter graduated from high school and is about to embark on the next chapter of her life as a freshman at Northwestern University. We had the chance to travel and watch her graduate, and while I was there, I shared a few words with her. In light of our discussion, I wanted to share those words with anyone who might benefit from them. **1. Embrace Diversity:** Be prepared to meet people from different walks of life and cultures. Moving in with a new roommate may be your first encounter with conflict management. Be open to everyone’s...

In the afternoon of May 3, 1991, my journey as an Army ROTC Scholar culminated in my commissioning as a 2nd Lieutenant. This journey held significant meaning for me, as I initially arrived at the University without a scholarship. Joining Army ROTC as a freshman, I hadn't entertained the possibility of receiving one. Funding for my first year and a half of college came from student loans, Pell grants, college work-study, and a job as a Resident Assistant. However, in the spring of my sophomore year, I learned that I had been awarded a 2 ½ Army ROTC scholarship, ensuring my college education would be fully covered. The following afternoon, on May 4, 1991, I crossed the veranda of my alma mater, the University of Tampa, to receive my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. My time at the University of Tampa was truly a labor of love. Initially feeling like a 'fish out of water,' Tampa was the farthest I had ever traveled, and I had never attended a private school before. I face...