Student Spotlight: Michella “Mickey” Malone, Air Force

Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Michella “Mickey” Malone, and I am from Honolulu, Hawaii. I served in the Air Force and worked in information management. I enlisted in the military because I wanted a challenge and to experience new opportunities. Something personal about me is that I am a secret nerd and love learning. One day, before I am too old, I want to earn the title of Dr. Malone.

Did you have any college experience before attending your Warrior-Scholar Project boot camp? Why did you decide to apply?

Before attending Warrior-Scholar’s academic boot camp at the California Institute of Technology, I obtained my bachelor’s degree in 2023. The saying “a lot of credits and no degree” is definitely applicable to me, as I went to several colleges before earning my degree. Even though I already had a bachelor’s degree, I applied to Warrior-Scholar Project because I wanted to know how to maneuver better in a classroom setting. Since I had always been an online student, I wanted to know if I could survive the in-person environment and how to prepare. All of my expectations were met as a participant at Caltech.

What were you feeling going into the first day of your boot camp? Did you experience a shift in your confidence as the week progressed? What are some of the key takeaways from your boot camp experience? Is there one thing that stood out to you?

My level of anxiety was off the charts after the first day. I felt like an imposter among the other participants, who were so much younger than I was. However, there was absolutely a shift in my confidence. I had an aha moment after chatting with a fellow (WSP alum who serves as a peer mentor) on the second day. They told me my experience at the academic boot camp was about self-awareness and identifying my weaknesses. I had to have someone tell me it was ok not to be perfect. Cherish the moments and absorb the experience—I will forever cherish this experience. Never give up—this is something they kept telling me that stuck.

What are some of the takeaways from your boot camp experience? Is there one thing that stood out to you?

I learned that it is okay to ask for help and how to navigate college in person. I also learned how mathematics and physics are associated with science, and how to program using Python. But the most valuable thing I learned was how to advocate for myself and break down the wall to let people in.

How would you describe your overall experience?

Phenomenal and so many other adjectives describe this awesome experience. I truly wish I had heard about it earlier.

Do you have any parting words?

The fellows team truly embodies professionalism and passion for this program. I immediately felt a sense of belonging, which I lacked after the military. I cannot thank them or this organization for awakening and motivating me toward my goals.