Silas Baker (pictured on the left above) graduated summa cum laude from AACC’s Homeland Security Management program in 2022 and served as a student marshal during commencement. He’s now studying homeland security management at the University of Maryland Global Campus. Below he talks about what he learned in AACC’s program and why he’s happy he chose to attend AACC.
As a graduate of Meade Senior High School’s Homeland Security Signature Program and Anne Arundel County Community College’s Homeland Security Management program, I can attest that students are given a curriculum which asked us not to view the world for what path will bring you the most individual fulfillment in life, but to view the world for its truths. To critically analyze the powers and systems which influence and maintain our global, national, regional, state, city and local governments on an hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, yearly or longer time frame. To plan for the prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery of all disasters and systems which threaten human life and societal development.
This is why I can proudly say AACC’s Homeland Security Management program has prepared me to live a life focused on and committed to always being my best. I graduated with academic and athletic honors at the county, state, regional and national levels, including being in the top 10 of my class at Meade and a nomination for valedictorian at AACC. Furthermore, my time at Meade and AACC has made me excited to learn, improve myself and to inspire change because I now know the systems in place and the procedures to produce the necessary change our local communities and this world needs.
Also, I’m not sure if I would feel the same if I went anywhere else. The education, mentorship and path that has been paved for myself and countless other students at AACC is one of excellence and care. I am glad for experiences here and will cherish them for the rest of my life.