Initially, as an undergraduate at James Madison University, Dan majored in history with the goal to become a history teacher. However, the economic downturn during the Great Recession led him to join the Army instead.
Throughout his military service, Dan was sent all over the US and globally, including deployments in South Korea, Kuwait, and Afghanistan. Despite the rigorous demands of his service, he managed to earn a Master of Arts in Transportation and Logistical Management from American Military University—a subject of his longtime fascination. As he prepared to leave the Army, Dan recognized that an MBA would be key for his successful transition from the Army to the private sector.
Making the transition from the Army during the pandemic, Dan set his sights on the University of Miami Patti and Allan Herbert Business School. He sought vibrant city life somewhere along the east coast, and an in-person academic experience.
"The University of Miami checked all those boxes," he said. Intrigued by the possibilities it offered, Dan delved into the University’s graduate offerings, exploring its robust alumni network, and engaging with some of the faculty members. Through these interactions, he saw immense potential for his future growth.
While Miami Herbert cannot replace the years of camaraderie and relationships Dan had fostered during his time in the Army, the School provided a supportive environment for his transition back to civilian life. Dan looks back on his days as an MBA graduate student with a sense of fondness, cherishing the knowledge gained, and the relationships forged.
"The Miami Herbert Distinguished Leaders Lecture Series, lunch and learns, and McKinsey’s Future of Leadership breakfasts are just a few of the many events that enriched my experience," he said.
However, it was his classmates who left the most lasting impression on his graduate school journey.
"The impact my classmates had on my collegiate career is beyond measure. It's impossible to envision my time here without their presence," he said.
He shares a piece of advice with fellow students, "UM offers amazing opportunities, but you must actively get involved."
The leadership skills and proactive mindset that Dan developed in the army have seamlessly transitioned into his life in Miami. Beyond just absorbing knowledge and building connections, Dan also embarked on a unique initiative at Miami Herbert.
“Starting the graduate business school’s Veteran’s Association and getting involved with local Veteran’s clubs in town has been amazing and I am excited to see it grow,” he said.
Dan also expressed pride in being part of winning teams in various academic competitions.
“I am also proud of being a member of teams that won classroom competitions, such as the marketing event for Coral Gables High School, the Applied Career Experience Project, and all the class competitions in our operational management classes.”
Dan's journey has shaped his philosophy of leadership, one grounded in both setting the right example and fostering a sense of optimism.
"I strive to do my best, aiming to be a positive influence on those around me. If others perceive me as a leader worth following, that's a bonus," he said.
Dan considers himself fortunate to have been in the company of inspiring leaders.
"During difficult times in leadership or management roles, the ability to maintain optimism is crucial. All great leaders I've worked with had this trait in common," he said.
While this was vital in the Army, Dan continues to apply this approach to effect change within organizations in Miami.
Reflecting on his career and education, Dan believes that it is a marathon, not a sprint, and that consistency is the key ingredient to success. Although many people overestimate what they can do in a year, Dan suggested, they often underestimate what they can do in 10 years.
“It’s okay to not know what you want to do right away,” he said. “But you must make sure you are learning and growing along the way. This is part of Army culture, and part of the culture at Miami Herbert.”
Dan, once a student of history, is now actively shaping his own. He graduates on May 11, with an MBA, and will start working in wealth management for Goldman Sachs in his home state of New Jersey.
