Polymath is not a term often used in the English Language. When I was a child my parents had a difficult time navigating my ever changing interests. Consuming knowledge from several areas of interest was a novelty but, there was always an expectation that it would be one day pass. Growing older the interests became  not only diverse but also increasingly more advanced. Joining the U.S. Military was a lifelong dream, and my intent was to focus on a single discipline. The overall intent was to harness my skills, but the military had better ideas on how to use my multiple areas of interest to their advantage. The USAF chose the career field for me of Aerospace Ground Equipment Technician. The career field handed me certificates in hydraulics, pneumatics, advanced power supply and backup systems, along with mobile power generation. While in the military I traveled to 27 different countries and at this point you could say my love for Anthropology began.

 

Following being stations at Tinker AFB in Oklahoma, we were then transferred to Yokota AB Japan. Living in Tokyo, I enjoyed life abroad and being an explorer at heart the diversity appealed to my sense of multiple interests. At one point while on the outskirts of Tokyo, I took leave and lived in a Zen monastery for a short time. The experience was unforgettable and drew my interest to learn more about humanity. Once honorably discharged and serving out my enlistment my family and I returned to Oklahoma and began civilian life. With more time on my hands reading became my past time 3 to 5 books per month has gone on for several years now.

 

The broad interests range hadn't changed and books filled the void with subjects such as, philosophy, quantum theory, religious ritual, and classic literature to name a few. Continuing where I left off in the military, I adapted my skills to large engine and transmission repair in diesel vehicles. Working my way to foreperson over five years I decided that physically it was time for a change. I enrolled at Platt College Culinary School and excelled graduating with honors and receiving my associate's degree. Advances in my career led to several local TV cooking show appearances while working as an Executive Chef with Dell computers and teaching a position at Platt College where I had once attended.

 

The position of Executive Chef eventually led me to Vinyard Fruit & Vegetable with a sales consultant /operations position. Once my children started to grow older, the time had come for a return to my education and a change of pace for the coming years. The support of my wife and four wonderful children helped me find my way back to my education. I decided to harness all my abilities and return to my love of culture and exploration. Enrolling at Ashford University in the Cultural Anthropology program would be where I found joy. Examining ancient cultures, early man, and philosophy gave a never-ending search for what I've been looking for all along...what it means to be human. Recently, I have completed my degree with a BA in Cultural Anthropology, and proud to say holding a 3.97GPA. I a member of Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society and made the Dean's list for the duration of the program, and selected as a student research assistant reporting to Dr. Janni Pedersen Chair Anthropology Dept. Ashford University.

 

The continuation of my education and completion of a Masters degree in Psychology followed by a Ph D. in Counseling Psychology plus  certification in completed a long difficult road. Today I can help those who need it most by combining both education and experience to provide a better quality of life. In the end, I guess when you look at my life from outside the box the only title that would actually fit is...Polymath.