WKU alumnus Alex Sajewski (’17) is taking his career to the sky serving in the U.S. Navy
By Rose Rementer
After graduating from Western Kentucky University with a degree in Marketing, Alex Sajewski of Fort Worth, Texas, used his family’s legacy as inspiration for his next career move.
“My father was a Marine for over 25 years,” stated Sajewski. “My grandfather served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was awarded a Purple Heart. I was brought up in a military lifestyle and grew to appreciate what the armed forces do for our country.
With the United States Navy, Sajewski said, college graduates have the option to either go Enlisted or train to become an Officer. Sajewski chose the latter. He applied, was accepted and began Officer Candidates School in Newport, Rhode Island in June 2017 and graduated in September 2017.
“I’m in training to be a Naval Flight Officer, which can have a few different roles,” continued Sajewski. “I could be in the backseat of a jet, acting as a mission commander, dropping ordnance or working from a surveillance or airborne radar aircraft. Simply put, I’d be Goose from Top Gun.”
Sajewski transferred to WKU from a college in Missouri. He said his decision to transfer was validated when WKU became his home and offered him valuable connections in the classroom, including support from one of his professors, Dr. Timothy Hawkins, Associate Professor of Marketing.
“Having been an Officer in the Air Force, Dr. Hawkins was able to discuss the higher education opportunities that are offered later in your service, and how the skills gained from your time in the military can translate into success in the civilian world,” said Sajewski. “I have grown to appreciate the path my life took. It led me here to where I am today and I can’t imagine being any more satisfied with my decision.”
Sajewski’s contract in the Navy lasts for about seven more years, but he plans on making this his life career.
“When your job includes launching from an aircraft carrier in an F/A-18, it’s hard to see a lot of civilian jobs competing with that kind of rush,” Sajewski exclaimed. “Ideally, I want to stay flying for as long as I want before the Navy parks me behind a desk. I’d like to see myself serving for 15 to 20 years, but, as with everything, it comes down to the needs of the Navy.”
Sajewski encourages all college graduates to explore options in the armed services after graduation. He says he’s glad he did.
“Start looking early at the opportunities that are offered,” Sajewski explained. “Each branch of service has different needs and all want the best of the best. Recruiters can be found at every career fair so don’t be afraid to go talk to them. There are a lot of financial benefits offered for those who start early if you have the skills they are looking for. And, the benefit of having a guaranteed job at graduation is great, too.”