VETERAN PROFILE Jessica Sharp, TISD

Current employer/leadership position: science teacher at Texas High School

How long: 10 years

Branch of military: Air Force

When were you drafted or when did you enlist? 11/18/1998

Can you describe a funny moment from boot camp? That was 24 years ago. I can’t remember. I just know basic training sucks.

What are some of the things you remember about adapting to military life? It really isn’t much different than living on a farm and being an athlete … discipline and hard work

Where did you serve? Ft. Gordon Georgia, Tinker AFB Oklahoma City, Camp Red Cloud South Korea; Prince Sultan Air Base Saudi Arabia, Al Dahfra Air base United Arab Emirates; Spangdahlem Air Base Germany; Beale AFB California; Grand Prairie ANG Texas

If you deployed overseas, where and when did you serve? Yes. PSAB Saudi Arabia in 2001 & 2002; Al Dhafra AB UAE 2002; Camp Red Cloud Korea 2003-2004, Spang Germany 2004-2007

What fun things did you and your friends do while on deployment? Exercised and read a lot of books (you can’t go anywhere or drink)

When did you leave the military? 5/31/2013

What are some things you miss about being in the service? What are some you are glad to have left behind? The professionalism and discipline of my fellow service members. I get to go places on the weekend without filling out leave paperwork.

What led you to choose your current career? How has your military experience helped you with your work? I have a bunch of family that teach. I don’t stress out as much as my fellow teachers, this isn’t life or death.