WM: Tell us about your time spent at AISB.

MP: I was fortunate to be at AISB from 2003-2007. During that time, I participated in the school swimming team, cross country team, and the Vampires newspaper. 
 

WM: From the point of view of a person who has studied in Australia, Romania and the United States of America, what is the value of an international education?

MP: I feel the bene t is being exposed to di erent cultures and traditions. Travelling and studying in foreign nations enhances perspective and allows the individual to learn about aspects of life they may not normally be exposed to. 
 

WM: Is the international lifestyle with which you grew up something you would like to continue for yourself and your

WM: Tell us a bit about your career.

MP: I am in the United States Navy, commissioned as an Active Duty Naval O cer. I'm primarily a surface o cer, which encompasses our eet of ships and provides an emphasis on operating them. The specialty for our eld is driving ships, along with managing everyday ship operations and upkeep. At the moment, I am the Assistant Operations O cer of Amphibious Squadron Three, where I oversee the operations of four amphibious ships. 
 

WM: What advice would you give to a young person who would like to pursue a military career?

MP: I would highly recommend taking full advantage of any educational opportunities o ered by your military service! I was fortunate to attend university prior to my commission, which is required to become an o cer in our Navy. Continuing your education both before and after joining the service will help advancement and job options in the military. 
 

WM: What are some of your best memories of AISB and Romania?

MP: I was able to travel with the cross- country team and the swimming team while at AISB to compete in other countries. These opportunities to travel with the team to other nations and compete were fantastic. The school would pair us with local families of the host nation, and being able to interact with these families was a magni cent opportunity. 
 

WM: If you could visit Romania and AISB for a day what would you do?

MP: I would enjoy attending the opera again - the performances were always fantastic! At AISB, I would enjoy visiting some of my old classrooms and seeing all the changes the school has likely gone through over the past decade. 

WM: What are your plans for the future?

MP: I'll be stationed in San Diego until 2018, when I'll likely move to Virginia to attend some Naval training and education. Beyond that, I hope to earn my MBA - as soon as my career allows. Being in the service, you're never entirely certain where you'll wind up... you can only hope for the best! 


Read the entire WORLD Magazine Spring 2017 edition here.