Sarah Winglass attended Boston College on an ROTC scholarship and graduated in 2014. She did not come from a military family or participate in ROTC in high school. Still, when applying to colleges, she spoke with a close friend who participated in an ROTC program and was attracted by the broader opportunities connected to the scholarship. This meant that on top of her classes and personal extracurriculars, Sarah participated in Army ROTC-specific physical and leadership training.

She started her career in the US Army in an operations unit in Colorado. Over time because of her high performance, Sarah earned the opportunity to be trained in the Counterintelligence force. She mentions that one of the biggest challenges transitioning to the military - was that she was so eager and excited - that performing a support role was out of character.

She then served on Counterintelligence teams in Washington, DC, and then on an extended deployment in Iraq. She said her deployment was one of her two goals for her military career - the other being company commander. On her deployment, Sarah is very insightful about the renewed sense of dedication and focus toward a mission that thrilled her.

Sarah accomplished both of her goals in her career with the help of mentors along the way. We talk about the organization and trajectory of a career in the military and the traits of successful military leaders. Sarah connects to how many of those skills transfer into the business world. This conversation also highlights Sarah’s experience as a woman in the Army and imposter syndrome in general. We end on an empowering note about how to find mentors to guide you through new missions and business ventures alike.