Midshipman Bios
Ryan Tran
My name is MIDN 3/C Ryan Tran from Avondale, Arizona. Currently, I am studying biological sciences with an emphasis on pre-med to hopefully one day become a Naval flight surgeon. My “why” is centered on gratitude. Without the U.S. military, I wouldn’t be here. Joining Naval ROTC is my pathway to a lifetime of service. Beyond academics, my hobbies include flying, hiking, shooting, and photography. NROTC is more than a program. The Trojan Battalion is a supportive family dedicated to nurturing strong leaders. I am grateful for this sense of belonging and professional development opportunities.
Thomas Salva
My name is MIDN 1/C Thomas Salva, and I am a Marine option from Bucks County, Pennsylvania. I am currently studying Human Security and Geospatial Intelligence. I am excited and fortunate to be a part of the Trojan Battalion, following in the footsteps of my two brothers and two sisters, all of whom completed ROTC, one of which was a part of the Trojan Battalion. The students and staff I have been able to become close with because of ROTC have brought me some of the fondest memories I have from my years in college. Without USC and NROTC, I would not be the person I am today. Outside of NROTC, I am a part of a fraternity and work two jobs on campus.
Nolan Walsh
My name is MIDN 2/C Nolan Walsh, and I am a Navy option from Boston, Massachusetts. I am currently pursuing a degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering at USC. Outside of NROTC, I play club lacrosse and am in a fraternity. So far in college, NROTC has already allowed me to accomplish so much. I am grateful to have obtained a number of unique experiences that not many other students at USC can say they have been a part of. NROTC continually prepares me for the many unexpected challenges that lie ahead in my future, both in and out of the military. I look forward to taking on a bigger role in the USC NROTC Battalion this year and feel confident in my abilities to lead my peers.
Phoebe Turner
My name is MIDN 2/C Phoebe Turner, and I am a Navy option from Croton on Hudson, New York. I am studying Electrical and Computer Engineering with a concentration in Semiconductor Physics and a minor in Physics. I am involved in USC’s Makers Innovation Club, Chess Club, CoCa Art and Technology Club, and ROTC Wargaming Club. For fun, I enjoy reading, writing, exploring LA, and spending time with my friends. Throughout college, ROTC has continuously pushed me to become a better person and explore my passions with extreme tenacity. Valuable skills, such as leadership, teamwork, respect, and hard work, which I’ve developed within ROTC, have led me to success in all other areas of my life. I’m thankful for the Trojan Battalion and family that I’ve found across the country.