Anna Jones is a Civil Engineering major, member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and has earned placements on the Dean’s List multiple times. She has also received Gold Star awards. After graduation, Jones plans to accept a commission into the U.S. Army.

Why did you choose The Citadel?

I chose The Citadel because I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone. Even if my goals for myself were not clear to me when I made the decision, I needed to grow if I was going to achieve them.

What is engraved on the inside of your ring and what is its significance?

The inside of my ring says, “Mistakes are the dirt we grow from.” It is a reminder to myself that it is rare to succeed at something the first time you try and that failure is not something to be ashamed of or to shy away from. If growth is to be achieved, opportunities must be chased, and with each new experience will likely come failure of some kind.

Who was the most influential person in your life that impacted your journey?

My grandparents have always been the most influential people in my life. My grandma is one of the bravest people I know and my Popop is one of the most dedicated. Listening to their stories about travelling around the world with the Army definitely influenced my decision to join the military. Both of their strengths of character, kindness and diligence are a constant reminder to me to always do the right thing, to be a servant to others and to push myself to be the best I can be for them and everyone else my actions affect.

What are three things The Citadel taught you that you will continue into your life and career?

The Citadel has taught me discipline to do the things I need to do no matter how tired or busy I am. It has also given me the courage to do things I would have been too afraid to even try a few years ago. I have also learned to trust myself and make decisions confidently.

How do you think the challenges and experiences at The Citadel have shaped the person you are today?

Being a cadet at The Citadel and all of the opportunities that have come with that have made me bolder and encouraged me to pursue challenges. It is a unique sense of fulfillment when you achieve something you weren’t sure you could. My experiences at The Citadel have taught me to intentionally pursue things that scare or challenge me because I can achieve much more than I think I can.

What will you miss the most about your time at The Citadel?

Easily the people. I have made some incredible friends who have been with me through each of my wins and supported me through hard times. Living next door to friends who not only support me but also push me to be better has been the greatest blessing I have experienced at The Citadel.

If you could go back and give advice to your freshman self, what would you say and why?

I would tell myself to be as involved as possible in as many things as I can. You learn something from every experience and there are so many opportunities you miss by being complacent in your life.

Do you have a unique moment from here that you will never forget?

I cannot distill it into a single moment but the entirety of knob year. It is a challenge and an opportunity for growth in every aspect if you are willing to commit yourself to it. Going through these challenges with your classmates builds unbreakable bonds and amazing memories and is definitely not something I will forget or take for granted.

How will you bring a positive meaning to the legacy of the ring?

The ring will serve as a constant reminder to me to be aware of how I carry myself and the way I treat others. To everyone, the ring is a symbol; but to each individual, it has more meaning than just that. It represents all the years it took to earn it, all the challenges and all the good times and all the people who helped shape my journey. I will bring a positive meaning to the legacy of the ring by striving to always do my best at whatever I do, learning whatever I can from wherever I am and showing up for the people who rely on me.

About The Citadel Class of 2026’s ring stories

Members of The Citadel Class of 2026 received their rings on Friday, Sept. 19. Before getting their rings, some seniors spoke about the event’s significance with Cadet Emma Moore, the Regimental Public Affairs Officer for the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. Moore is from Akron, Ohio and has a double major in Intelligence and Security Studies and Spanish. She is a member of Sigma Delta Pi, a national Spanish honor society. After graduation, Moore hopes to conduct counter-narcotic operations for the Drug Enforcement Administration.