Regina Lewis
Specialist
Veteran | 4 Years in the U.S. Air Force
Professor, Department Chair, Special Assistant to the President for Academic Excellence and Inclusion, entrepreneur of ReginaSpeaking, LLC
Interview Questions
What was the biggest reason that led you to join the military?
Gain independence and serve my country. I had considered the police force. However, I wanted to make a global impact.
What was the biggest lesson you learned in the military?
Resiliency and comradery. I have been involved in two historical events – The first televised war, Desert Shield/Desert storm, and one of only six declared pandemics by the World Health Organization, COVID 19. Desert Storm, I refer to as the silent war, involved chemicals that could not be seen, and you could not smell. Because of how we were trained to thrive and protect ourselves along with our comrades taught me to stay laser-focused, do my research, and maintain mental health prepared me to be resilient 30-years later as I am. The world has been dealing with the unknown viral war – the COVID-19 pandemic.
Has the military made you a better person?
Absolutely, I stand by the warrior ethos in a civilian capacity. I have taken the road less traveled, and as I moved forward into my future story, I was committed to the people I encountered and still encounter along the way.
• Tough Mindedness
• Tireless Motivation
• Unceasing Vigilance
• Willingness to Sacrifice One’s Life for the Country
• A Commitment to be the World’s Premier Air Force
What areas of your life has the military helped you grow the most in?
Raising my son, obtaining my education, and my commitment to my community.
What is your perspective of patriotism?
Patriotism is supporting our country, which means to stay united, be inclusive. Respecting others differences doesn’t mean you are deficient.
What was your experience transitioning from active duty to civilian life?
It wasn’t easy; I was conditioned to follow a strong set of rules, go through the chain of command, and work as a team. Transitioning to civilian life, I had to relearn a different set of work ethics. I had to understand that waiting to be told what to do and then execute was not how it works in the professional world. I realized that independence was the identity of strength, and I had to figure out how my military skills translated into the civilian world.
What advice would you give to others transition into civilian life?
Begin building your network before transitioning. Take advantage of any transitioning classes and programs. Create a successful entourage made up of military and civilians—conduct informational interviews with veterans working in the civilian world. Take the skills you learned in the military and use them as supports once you transition.
What are things that people should consider before they decide to serve their country?
Your soul purpose is to serve our country and always be prepared for wartime activity.
