Military Student Spotlight: Valerie Mason
At Appalachian State University, student veterans and military-affiliated students bring unique perspectives, resilience, and leadership to campus. One such student is a fourth-year National Guard soldier whose journey reflects determination, growth, and a clear vision for the future.
Originally from Dallas, North Carolina. Valerie Mason was drawn to Appalachian State for its strong sense of community and proximity to home. The university’s reputation for supporting veterans and military-affiliated students stood out immediately, along with its scenic mountain setting and the seamless connection between campus life and the town of Boone.
Currently serving in the National Guard as a 13 Bravo, or cannon crew member, Valerie has spent the past four years developing critical skills in readiness, resilience, and teamwork. Her military experience has reinforced the importance of being prepared at all times and maintaining mental toughness in challenging situations. One of her most meaningful moments in service came while on state active duty in Burnsville, North Carolina, following Hurricane Helene. There, she supported recovery efforts by helping clear debris and assisting community members in distress, an experience she describes as both sobering and deeply rewarding.
Her time in the artillery unit has also been marked by breaking barriers. As the first female on the gunline in her unit in many years, she faced the challenge of proving her capability in a physically demanding environment. Through consistency, hard work, and determination, she earned the trust of her leadership and helped pave the way for other women in the unit. Today, she takes pride in mentoring newer female soldiers and contributing to a more inclusive and professional unit culture.
Academically, Valerie is pursuing a double major within the Walker College of Business in Banking and Finance and Risk Management and Insurance, along with a minor in Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Her long-term goal is to own and operate her own insurance business, and she intentionally shaped her academic path to build the financial and analytical skills necessary for that vision. Even in her initial struggles, she credits Senior Lecturer Joe Walsh with teaching her that a lack of innate math skill doesn't prevent you from developing understanding, and Practitioner in Residence Jason Kelley with pushing her to challenge herself and think outside of the box.
Outside the classroom, she is actively involved in campus organizations, including the Student Veterans Association (SVA) and Gamma Iota Sigma, an insurance-focused fraternity. Through SVA, she has participated in events such as tailgates and even had the memorable experience of running the flag across the football field at a university event. Her involvement in Gamma Iota Sigma has also provided valuable professional development opportunities, and she is set to take on a leadership role as a club liaison in the upcoming academic year.
These experiences have contributed significantly to her personal and professional growth. Being surrounded by motivated peers has fueled her ambition and encouraged her to continuously improve. She has also built strong networks within the insurance industry, leading to exclusive invitation-only opportunities and an internship with Craig Peterson Insurance Group, an important step toward her future career.
Her connection to the veteran community on campus has played a crucial role in her success. Transitioning from Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training to university life can be challenging, but the sense of camaraderie within the veteran community has made that shift much smoother. She credits the SVA as a vital support system, offering not only resources but also a space where she can connect with others who understand her experiences.
Looking ahead, her goals are clear: to build her own insurance business and continue serving in the National Guard, ideally advancing to the role of gun chief. Her drive is fueled by a desire to become a subject matter expert in her field and by the unwavering support of her family, especially her father, who she describes as her greatest source of encouragement and inspiration.
"Remember that most issues are temporary, and stress is a silent killer. Dream big, and back those dreams with a raw, shaking determination."
Her message to fellow veterans and students is simple but powerful: stay determined, remain grateful, and keep pushing forward. Challenges are temporary, but perseverance and hard work can turn even the most ambitious dreams into reality.