What is your favorite memory from your time at the LBJ School?
My favorite memory from the past two years was the birth of my daughter, Emerson. Graduate school has been a fantastic time for me to pause for a moment (after my assignments were complete, of course) and take stock of what I value most in life.
Brandon with his wife, Kristin, and daughter, Emerson.
What is the most unexpected thing that happened to you during your time at LBJ?
The opportunity to collaborate with real-world clients surprised me the most about my LBJ experience. I underestimated how comprehensive and immersive of a learning experience the LBJ School provides. From the very first semester here, I worked on several projects with stakeholders to help them solve the challenges they were facing.
Tell us about your next steps.
I have been fortunate to attend graduate school while serving on active duty as an officer in the U.S. Army. My next duty assignment is as an economics instructor at the United States Military Academy. As a member of the West Point faculty, I will teach the core economics course as well as the economic development and growth elective. More importantly, I will contribute to the training, education and development of the next generation of Army officers as they grow into men and women of character and leaders for our military and nation.
Teaching an introduction to coding course for Innovations for Peace and Development.
What is your advice to the incoming class?
Dive in head first. LBJ offers so many great opportunities for learning, networking, and growth. Push your limits, tackle challenges that make you uncomfortable, speak up in class, and say "yes" to as many unique experiences you can! Grad school is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to pursue your passions, expand your perspective and grow.
What class or experience left the biggest impression on you?
I had the chance to participate in Adm. McRaven's inaugural class. The course offered a glimpse into his decision-making process and helped me to hone my own. Adm. McRaven masterfully balanced sharing "war stories" from his time in the Navy and the White House Situation Room with practical simulations. This course design enabled us to consider our decisions and actions in scenarios with no clear answer all the while with the admiral encouraging us to lead with values, integrity and courage in any circumstance we may encounter.
Also pictured: Clare Kane, Anushree Deb and Brenna Lyles.
You experienced an unprecedented change to your school experience this year. What was the most unexpected thing you discovered about yourself during this time?
COVID-19 challenged each of us to figure out how to adapt to a different environment with online learning and collaboration. This obstacle forced us to refine our ability to work remotely. During this period, I worked with a group of students consulting for a landmine disposal nonprofit, Bomb Techs Without Borders. Through adapting to the remote environment, we discovered new communications skills and techniques that improved our ability to deliver results for our client.