Austin Brown is from Lake City, South Carolina. His major is Supply Chain Management, with a minor in Construction Engineering. While attending The Citadel, Brown has been on the Dean’s List and has received Gold Stars. He serves as the athletic officer in Romeo Company and the Summerall Guards supply sergeant. After graduation, he plans to start his career as a project engineer in Charleston, South Carolina.

Why did you choose The Citadel?

I chose The Citadel because it had a reputation for making great leaders. It offered a unique college experience that you can’t get anywhere else.

What does receiving the senior ring symbolize for you, and how does it reflect your journey over the past four years?

Receiving the senior ring is a milestone that symbolizes the hard work, growth and transformation over the past four years. It represents the transition from being a student to a graduate. The ring reflects on my personal achievements, friendships formed and challenges that we have overcome. It serves as a reminder of the journey, late-night study sessions, moments of self-discovery and the support of peers and mentors. As a token of this chapter in my life, the senior ring carries the memories and lessons learned.

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

The challenges and experiences at The Citadel have significantly shaped my identity. My time management, study skills and physical training instilled resilience and perseverance. The focus on leadership and teamwork taught me the value of collaboration and communication, fostering deep bonds with my peers. 

Who has been the most influential person during your time at The Citadel, and how have they impacted your journey?

My dad is the most influential person in my life. During times when I didn’t believe in myself, he always did. His support and encouragement have shaped my journey at The Citadel in countless ways. He reminded me that challenges are growth opportunities. Whenever I faced difficulties, whether in academics or personal setbacks, he was there to provide me with guidance and motivation. His belief in my potential pushed me to strive for excellence and never to give up, even when things got tough. I often reflect on his words of wisdom, which have inspired me to embrace challenges with a positive mindset. His example of dedication and resilience has influenced my approach to my studies and leadership roles and shaped the kind of person I aspire to be. I am grateful for his support, and I know that the lessons he has taught me will stay with me throughout my life as I continue to grow and pursue my goals.

Is there a particular tradition or moment at The Citadel that stands out as your favorite?

My favorite moment at The Citadel was going through BVA and becoming the Summerall Guards Supply Sergeant. Although it was special and mentally challenging, I enjoyed every moment of it.

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

If I could go back and give my freshman self some advice, I would say, “Don’t let the sadness of your past and fear of the future ruin the happiness of your present.” Growing up, my dad would always say, “The sun will rise tomorrow,” and I didn’t quite understand what it meant. Now, being a senior, I finally understand that “the sun will rise tomorrow” means that, no matter how dark a situation may seem, it will eventually improve or come to an end.

About The Citadel Class of 2025’s ring stories

Members of The Citadel Class of 2025 receive their rings on Friday, Sept. 27. Before getting their rings, some seniors spoke about the event’s significance with Cadet Zoe Crecos, the Regimental Public Affairs Officer for the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. Crecos, who is from Palm Beach, Florida, is a Marketing and Business Development major with a minor in Data Science. When she graduates, she will be pursuing a career in Supply Chain at Boeing in Charleston, South Carolina.