Anisa Hundley stands in a crowd. You notice her. Not only for her infectious sense of humor but also for her clear-headed focus on what lies ahead. Anisa, a senior with aspirations of enlisting in the military, balances her own ambitions with a deep respect for her family’s legacy of service. Her brother, who spent time in the Army, has been a major influence on her decision, as has her father’s military background. But Anisa is carving her own path, and she’s doing it with the kind of determination and wit that her friends and family have come to love.

As she approaches the “jumping off point” of her life, Anisa is weighing her options between the Navy and the Army, each offering different paths to her future. “I’m thinking about the Navy because they have more options,” she explains. One of those options is marine biology, a field that sparks her curiosity and love for the ocean. “But I also think about being a veterinarian,” she adds with a thoughtful smile. “I love animals.” It’s clear that whether Anisa is diving into the ocean or caring for animals on land, her future is as full of possibility as it is of purpose.

Anisa’s directness comes through when she talks about what’s ahead. She hasn’t yet enlisted, but she’s been having phone conversations with one of her dad’s friends, a retired service member who did time in both the Army and Navy. “He’s been telling me what to expect,” she says, laughing as she recalls asking him whether drill sergeants actually yell at recruits the way they do in the movies. “It’s funny because I keep asking him these random questions like, ‘Is base life really better than living off-base?’ and he just gives me the lowdown.”

At home, Anisa’s family serves as a constant source of support and wisdom. As the oldest of her at-home siblings, she feels a responsibility to set an example for her younger brother and sisters. “I’m the oldest,” she says proudly, “so I’ve got to lead the way.” Her dad, who has experienced plenty of life, often sits her down for advice. “He’s smart, strict, and always knows what’s going to happen,” she says. “It’s like he can see the future!” When she’s hanging out with a group of friends that might not be the best influence, her dad is quick to share his wisdom. “He tells me what to expect, and he’s always right,” Anisa says with a knowing smile.

Anisa’s sense of humor is one of her defining traits. “My friends would say I’m really funny,” she laughs, “and I think I am too!” But beneath the humor is a young woman who’s thoughtful and caring. Whether she’s picking up something for her friends at the store or making them laugh, Anisa has a way of making those around her feel appreciated. “I’m easy to hang around because I’m always thinking about other people,” she says, “and I guess that’s why they like being around me.”

Her journey to where she is now hasn’t always been easy. Having moved several times, Anisa understands the challenges of starting over. “We moved a lot,” she reflects, “and every time we did, it was hard. I had to make new friends, adjust to new schools—it was tough.” But that experience has made her adaptable, a skill that will no doubt serve her well in the military. “I’m used to new environments,” she says, “and that’s something I’ve gotten pretty good at.”

In addition to her ambitions in the military, Anisa has a passion for soccer, which she’s played for four years. “Soccer is my sport,” she says. “I used to play basketball when I lived in Arizona, but I switched to soccer when we moved here.” Soccer has become more than just a game for Anisa—it’s an outlet where she can channel her energy and competitive spirit.

As she prepares for the next chapter, Anisa is a little nervous, but mostly confident and ready. “I’m nervous, but I’m also excited,” she admits. “I’m ready to start.” With the support of the GI Bill, Anisa knows that her military service will open doors for her education and career. “There are so many benefits to joining,” she says, “and I’m ready to take advantage of them.”

Anisa is also clear-headed about her next steps. “When I talk to the recruiter, I know I’m the customer,” she says confidently. “I’m not signing anything unless it’s exactly what I want.” Her father’s friend has already advised her to be patient and negotiate for the best deal possible, and Anisa is taking that advice to heart. “I’m not in a rush,” she says. “I want to make sure I get the right deal.”

For the Momence community, Anisa Hundley is a young woman with a bright future, full of potential and purpose. Her humor, drive, and sense of responsibility make her stand out—not just as a future member of the military, but as a thoughtful and kindhearted individual.