Ricky Holder is a veteran of the United States Navy, in which he served from 2011 to 2017. During his time in the College, he explored his interests in child welfare and criminal justice. After graduating with a degree in public policy, he will be heading to the University of Oxford to pursue an MPhil in Comparative Social Policy as a Marshall Scholar.
What drew you to UChicago after your military service?
When I separated from the U.S. Navy, UChicago was not on my radar. But, after coming here as part of the Warrior-Scholar Project, I fell in love with the campus. After reading about the Institute of Politics and UChicago's commitment to the "life of the mind," I determined that UChicago was for me. It was the only school I applied to.
How have your past experiences influenced your academic and career interests?
Having spent my childhood in either poverty or in the foster care system, I long-ago resolved that I would dedicate my life to ensuring that no family suffers the same fate as mine. That is precisely why I studied public policy and why I seek a career in public service.
What RSOs or other programs at UChicago were you a part of?
I dedicated all four years of my time here to the Institute of Politics. This year, I served as the Co-Chair of the IOP's Student Advisory Board, where I was able to advise senior IOP leadership on the institute's programming and mission. From moderating a panel with Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg to participating in a trek to the 2020 Iowa Caucuses, the IOP has provided me with a wealth of rich experiences.
What advice would you give to future Veteran Scholars?
Two pieces of advice for future Veteran Scholars: (1) Do all of your readings. Not only will this help you out in class, but it will maximize the world-class education you are receiving; (2) Go deep rather than broad with something on campus. Instead of joining 30 RSOs like I did my first year, find the 1-2 RSOs/extracurriculars and get highly involved in them. This would be a far more enriching and productive use of your time.