Navigating Tradition and Service: An Interview with Caitlynn Walsh, Corps Commander and POLS Senior at Texas A&M University.
Caitlynn Walsh, a senior political science major and Corps Commander at Texas A&M University embodies the spirit of selfless service and dedication to a higher cause. In an exclusive interview, Caitlynn offers profound insights into her journey, her academic pursuits as a political science student at the Bush School, and the influential factors that steered her toward a career in public service.
Caitlynn Walsh, from Double Oak, Texas, proudly serves as the third-ever female Corps Commander in the history of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets.
I applied to A&M honestly because of the selfless service culture, and just the culture of values and traditions that A&M is founded on. The Corps of Cadets specifically drew me in because it’s tied to the historic traditional founding of A&M and the tie to military service, which has always been something that I’ve wanted to do in my life and as a career.
Caitlynn Walsh ’24
Caitlynn extends her encouragement to prospective students, urging them to consider A&M as a nurturing environment where they can find a supportive family united by a shared commitment to service. Reflecting on her experience within the political science program, Caitlynn expresses her deep appreciation for the sense of community and collaboration fostered within the Bush School. She highlights the encouragement from her teachers towards teamwork, critical thinking, and a global perspective that effectively prepares students for graduation.
The decision to pursue public service stems from Caitlynn’s admiration of her Navy veteran father. Her desire to follow in his footsteps and contribute to the country led her to the service culture of the Corps of Cadets and the Bush School. She underscores the importance of surrounding herself with like-minded individuals who embody the values of selfless service and a willingness to sacrifice for others.
When asked about advice for her younger self and prospective students, Caitlynn emphasizes the value of embracing opportunities and stepping out of one’s comfort zone. She shares that during her experience, “I kept to myself and stayed in a box inside my comfort zone and since I started to challenge myself…I started to meet some amazing people and see myself grow into who I am today.” Caitlynn also highlighted the importance of learning from failures, emphasizing that personal growth often occurs in discomfort.
I always wanted to join the military, serve as an officer, do my due diligence, and give back to the country that’s been so good to me. So, the service culture and the Corp, along with the Bush School, is what truly brought me to A&M. I wanted to put myself in a place where I’d be surrounded by other men and women who are service-minded and embody that value of selfless service and are willing to give up their time, their talents, and themselves, to the man or woman to the left or right of them.
Caitlynn Walsh ’24
Caitlynn Walsh’s journey at Texas A&M University is a testament to the transformative power of education, values, and the pursuit of selfless service. As she prepares to graduate, her experiences serve as inspiration for future Aggies, encouraging them to embrace challenges and contribute to a community built on tradition, values, and a commitment to something greater than oneself.
