Spring 2024 Behan Law Group Military Veteran Scholarship Winner

Each semester, The Behan Law Group offers an award of $1,000 to support the higher education of military veterans, current service members, and their children. Our scholarship also requires the applicant to submit an essay discussing how their experience affected their academic and career goals and they plan to use their education to positively impact their community.

William Joel Adams

A veteran of the United States Armed Forces, William has been named the fourth-place winner of our Behan Law Group Military Veterans Scholarship. After receiving his degree, William plans on using his experience in the military and the classroom to forge a career in biology sciences. Read Williams’ essay to feel inspired by his story and ambitions to help better his community.

Read William’s Essay:

My experience as a veteran has had a profound impact on my academic and career aspirations. After serving in the military for several years, I made the decision to pursue a path in secondary biology sciences. This choice was influenced by the unique perspectives and skills I gained during my time in the armed forces.

One of the key ways my military service influenced my academic goals is through discipline and determination. In the military, I learned the importance of setting goals, working tirelessly to achieve them, and pushing myself beyond perceived limits. This discipline has translated directly into my academic pursuits, where I approach my studies with a relentless commitment to excellence.

Additionally, my time in the military exposed me to a variety of global challenges, from humanitarian missions in conflict zones to disaster relief efforts. These experiences made me acutely aware of the critical role that science, particularly biology, plays in addressing complex issues affecting communities worldwide. Whether it was providing medical support during a crisis or participating in environmental recovery efforts, I saw firsthand how a deep understanding of biology can make a significant positive impact.

As I transition from the military to academia, my goal is to use my education in secondary biology sciences to create a positive impact in my community. Specifically, I plan to focus on the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) secondary schools in Spangdahlem, Germany, AFB where there is a unique opportunity to contribute to the education and well-being of military-connected students.

One of my primary objectives is to inspire and mentor the next generation of scientists. DoDEA schools in Spangdahlem serve a diverse population of students, many of whom come from military families. These students often face unique challenges related to frequent moves and parental deployments. I want to be a source of inspiration and guidance for them, sharing my experiences and emphasizing the importance of education, especially in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

To achieve this, I plan to actively engage in outreach programs and mentorship initiatives within the DoDEA schools. By connecting with students, organizing science clubs, and participating in career days, I aim to ignite their passion for biology and show them the exciting opportunities that await them in the sciences.

Furthermore, I intend to contribute to research projects that have a direct impact on the local community in Spangdahlem. This could involve collaborating with local environmental organizations to address ecological challenges of conducting research that informs public health initiatives. My goal is to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical solutions that benefit the community directly.

Additionally, I plan to organize community education and advocacy efforts. I believe that scientific literacy is vital for informed decision-making, and I want to ensure that the community has access to accurate information and resources. Whether it's hosting workshops on topics like biodiversity conservation or advocating for sustainable practices, I aim to be an active and informed voice in the Spangdahlem community.

In conclusion, my experience as a veteran has significantly influenced my academic and career goals in secondary biology sciences. I am driven by a sense of discipline, determination, and a desire to use my education to make a positive impact, particularly within the DoDEA secondary schools in Spangdahlem, Germany. Through mentorship, research, education, and advocacy, I hope to inspire the next generation, address local challenges, and contribute to the well-being and scientific literacy of the community.