I attended Officer Candidates School (OCS) at Marine Corps Base Quantico, where I underwent rigorous evaluation to determine my suitability for leading Marines. Unlike enlisted recruit training, which focuses on developing recruits into Marines, OCS actively seeks reasons for elimination, maintaining the Corps' highest standards for officer selection. The evaluation system weights leadership at 50% of the final grade, with Physical Fitness and Academics each comprising 25%. Candidates must achieve a minimum 80% overall score to graduate. The leadership evaluation encompasses multiple dimensions: directing small teams in simulated combat scenarios, executing platoon-level leadership responsibilities, demonstrating the character qualities necessary to earn positive peer evaluations, and meeting additional leadership benchmarks. These assessments occur under conditions designed to test decision-making capabilities while candidates experience significant physical, mental, and emotional stress. By successfully graduating from OCS, I demonstrated possession of the leadership qualities the United States Marine Corps demands of its officers.

3rd in the chain of command, after the two business owners. Employees would come to me with questions to answer and problems to solve. I also took part in training the employees and refining employee procedures. It was incredibly important that I followed the procedures perfectly so that other employees could emulate the example I set. On top of ensuring employees were well equipped to fulfil their roles, I also aimed to foster a friendly and fun work environment.

The Unit Leader position at Officer Candidates School (OCS) is the most demanding leadership role available to candidates. The Unit Leader stands adjacent to the platoon and calls cadence during drill movements. Drill represents a sacred tradition within the United States Marine Corps and commands corresponding respect and precision. This discipline requires unwavering attention to detail, mental focus, and physical presence. Unit Leaders operate under intense scrutiny, as the position demands flawless execution, vocal confidence, and decisive command presence without hesitation. As Unit Leader for my platoon of over 50 candidates, I maintained an unwavering commitment to excellence. The transition from civilian to military leader calling cadence presented a steep learning curve, yet I adapted quickly to meet these rigorous standards. The gravity and significance of this responsibility is difficult to convey to those unfamiliar with Marine Corps drill traditions. Serving in this capacity was both an exceptional challenge and a distinguished honor.