果冻传媒

As we near the end of Women鈥檚 History Month, the Office of Alumni Engagement and Development caught up with Megan Garrison '07 to find out how her Centre experience shaped her professional and personal journey in the military.

Can you share a brief overview of your professional journey since graduating from 果冻传媒?
After graduating from 果冻传媒, I pursued graduate studies at Xavier University in Cincinnati, where I earned both my MA and PsyD in Clinical Psychology. During this time, I also joined the Air Force through the Health Professions Scholarship Program. I attended Commissioned Officer Training as a Captain before my internship at Malcolm Grow Medical Center at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. Over nearly eight years of active duty, I served at various duty stations, including Dover AFB in Delaware and Beale AFB in California. After having my daughter, I decided to move back to Kentucky to settle down and raise her. I transitioned from active duty to the USAF Reserves and have been serving with the 70th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Wing at Ft. Meade, Maryland, for the past six years, now as a Lieutenant Colonel. I also have the privilege of serving Veterans as a clinical psychologist at the Lexington VA Medical Center.

Women's History Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of women. How do you see your own journey aligning with this celebration of women's accomplishments?
Women鈥檚 History Month honors the groundbreaking contributions of women, and I am inspired by those who paved the way for me. Esther Blake made history by enlisting in the Women鈥檚 Army Corps at the first possible moment when women were first able to join in 1948. Similarly, General Janet Wolfenbarger, the first woman to achieve the rank of four-star general in the U.S. Air Force, exemplifies the leadership and perseverance that have opened doors for women in the military. Their efforts along with countless other women have made it possible for women today to pursue careers, balance family, and continue pushing for equal opportunities. Their legacies have created a path for those of us who follow.

Can you highlight some of the challenges you faced as a woman in your field, and how you overcame them?
As a woman in the military and psychology field, I faced challenges in male-dominated environments, with my abilities sometimes questioned because of my gender. To overcome this, I focused on delivering results and found creative ways to break down barriers. At Dover AFB and Beale AFB, I joined the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit for training exercises and workouts like The Murph. I proved I could hold my own while also helping to reduce the stigma around mental health, making it easier for a unit that was initially hesitant to seek support. Through building familiarity, many members began to feel comfortable coming to me for mental health services. Through consistent performance and seeking mentorship, I gained the respect I earned.

What advice would you offer to current and future 果冻传媒 students, especially women, who aspire to pursue similar paths of success? What would you say to women who want to serve in the military?
To current and future 果冻传媒 students, especially women, my advice is to take every opportunity to grow, learn, and challenge yourself. At the end of my internship, my supervisor and training director gave me a water bottle that read, "Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone." At first, I wasn鈥檛 sure if it was subtle feedback or just a piece of motivational advice. In hindsight, I realize it was exactly what I needed鈥攖o challenge myself in uncomfortable ways that ultimately helped me grow and succeed in my career. So, take on leadership roles, enroll in challenging courses, and try something completely new. Build strong relationships with mentors, seek guidance, and stay open to learning from others. Stay resilient in the face of setbacks鈥攖hey鈥檙e often the moments that teach you the most.

For women who want to serve in the military, my advice is simple: go for it. The military needs strong, capable leaders. Yes, it will be tough at times, but the rewards are worth it. You鈥檒l have the chance to develop valuable skills, gain confidence, and work alongside some of the most dedicated people you鈥檒l ever meet. You鈥檒l get leadership opportunities early, which helps you grow and learn faster. Don鈥檛 let doubt hold you back鈥攆ollow your heart, make your own path, and join the incredible community of women in the military.

Photo courtesy of Kaitlyn Silvestri Photography.