Honor Society® member
Ryan Darrow
- Business Administration
- Class of 2026
- Freeport, FL
Member since April 2025
About
My name is Ryan Darrow, and I am a 37-year-old returning college student embarking on an exciting academic journey after nearly 17 years away from formal education. This transition represents a pivotal moment in my life, as I embrace the challenges of balancing higher education, professional responsibilities, and parenthood—all while striving for personal and intellectual growth.
I take immense pride in being a father to three incredible children: my 17-year-old son, who is approaching adulthood, and my two daughters, ages 8 and 11, who continue to inspire me with their curiosity and energy. Parenthood has been one of my most rewarding experiences, and I am determined to lead by example—showing my children that lifelong learning and perseverance are invaluable traits.
Before returning to college, I dedicated eight years of service to the United States Air Force, an experience that shaped my leadership skills, discipline, and commitment to excellence. My time in the military reinforced the importance of adaptability, problem-solving, and teamwork—qualities that now serve me well in my academic and professional endeavors.
Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). This field aligns perfectly with my goal of mastering strategic planning, resource allocation, and organizational leadership, equipping me with the skills needed to navigate complex projects and drive efficiency in professional settings. Despite the demands of juggling coursework with my responsibilities as a parent and working professional, I have maintained a 4.0 GPA, reflecting my dedication, meticulous attention to detail, and passion for learning.
Returning to school after nearly two decades is both exciting and challenging, but I am eager to embrace every opportunity for growth. With a strong foundation in military discipline and a clear vision for my future, I am committed to making the most of this academic experience, setting a positive example for my children, and preparing for a meaningful career in project management.
Education
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Southern New Hampshire University
Business Administration with a focus in Project Management
2026
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Community College of the Air Force
Electronic Systems Principles
2010 – 2016
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University of North Texas
2006 – 2007
Honors and awards
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Honor Roll
Goals and interests
- Career goal
With a target graduation date in August of 2026, I am eager to leverage my experience at Eglin Air Force Base (AFB) and the expertise gained through my Business Administration degree with a concentration in Project Management to transition into a new contract position. My time at Eglin AFB has provided me with valuable insights into defense operations, logistics, and strategic planning, which I aim to integrate with my newly acquired academic knowledge to contribute effectively in a professional setting.
Beyond securing a new role, I am committed to continuous professional growth. My long-term plan includes pursuing an MBA, further strengthening my leadership and analytical skills to navigate complex organizational structures and drive efficiency. Additionally, I intend to earn Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, ensuring that I meet global standards in project management practices, and Six Sigma certification, equipping me with methodologies to optimize workflows, eliminate inefficiencies, and improve overall performance. These qualifications will position me as a highly skilled and versatile professional, ready to take on challenges in contract management, business operations, and strategic development.
