At Puget Law Group, we understand the impact of growing up in a military family. Having a loved one in the military can provide valuable life experiences, but it can also bring hardships. We wish to extend our gratitude and support to military families through our Military Family Background: Life Opportunities & Hardships Scholarship.
The 2024 scholarship award of $2,500 goes to Joseph Kimberling, currently attending Wofford College. Joseph candidly shared the challenges he faced due to frequent relocations.
He also highlights how these experiences shaped his resilience, allowing him to adapt quickly to new environments. Joseph is inspired to join the Marines, embracing a future of service and dedication.
Our Tacoma criminal defense lawyers congratulate Joseph Kimberling on his heartfelt and honest video. We admire his vulnerability in sharing his story and hope that this scholarship award will support him in achieving his academic goals.
A Life Shaped by Service
Joseph openly talks about the difficulties he encountered from frequently moving to new places. Each relocation brought its own set of challenges, from adjusting to new schools to making new friends. However, Joseph emphasizes how these experiences taught him to be resilient.
Over time, he learned to adapt quickly to new environments, becoming more flexible and resourceful. These skills have helped him handle change more effectively and are qualities he carries with him as he faces future challenges.
Growing up in a military family profoundly shaped Joseph’s life by exposing him to a diverse range of perspectives, cultures, and people. Unlike many of his peers, Joseph had the opportunity to experience life in various places, gaining a broader understanding of the world.
This exposure not only expanded his worldview but also instilled in him a deep respect for different cultures. The unique challenges and experiences of growing up in a military family helped him develop a greater appreciation for diversity, fostering a sense of empathy that continues to influence his aspirations.
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A Leader Committed to Community Service
Joseph Kimberling is deeply involved in his local community, dedicating his time to various volunteer and leadership roles. He helps run an afterschool program at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where he mentors children and assists them with their schoolwork.
Joseph has also played a key role in organizing community events, such as a Fall Festival for the Franklin School–a local pre-K school–and a pickleball tournament for the Spartanburg Humane Society. Additionally, he has volunteered at local schools, reading to children and making Christmas goods with elementary school students.
His commitment to service extends to his fraternity, where he served as the Philanthropy Chair before becoming the President from December 2023 to December 2024. Through these activities, Joseph demonstrates a strong dedication to supporting and uplifting those around him.
Honoring a Legacy, Joseph Kimberling’s Path to Military and Public Service
Joseph Kimberling plans to dedicate his career to service, beginning with his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps after graduation. He aims to serve for 20 years, during which he hopes to earn a PhD in International Relations.
Inspired by his grandfather’s legacy, Joseph envisions continuing his impact beyond the military by working for the U.S. State Department, serving in embassies to promote diplomacy and global cooperation.
His academic focus on International Affairs, History, and regional studies has shaped his passion for international relations and reinforced his commitment to both military and public service.
More About Puget Law Group Military Family Background: Life Opportunities & Hardships Scholarship
The Puget Law Group Military Family Background: Life Opportunities & Hardships Scholarship supports students in the U.S. who have grown up in military families. This scholarship invites applicants to submit a 1- to 3-minute video sharing their personal experiences, challenges, and lessons learned.
To qualify, applicants must be admitted to or enrolled in an accredited college, university, or graduate school, maintain good academic standing, and meet all eligibility requirements. Videos should be original, engaging, and focused on how military life has shaped them.
This scholarship honors the resilience and adaptability of military families while providing financial support to students pursuing higher education.
Congratulations, Joseph Kimberling!
Our 2024 scholarship winner shares a heartfelt account of the challenges and triumphs of growing up in a multigenerational military family. Joseph is inspired to follow in their footsteps and continue the legacy of service.
The team at Puget Law Group has no doubt that his resilience and dedication, shaped by his military family background, will serve Joseph well as he continues his academic journey. Our team applauds his heartfelt storytelling and wishes him the best in his future endeavors.
Students who wish to apply for the Military Family Background: Life Opportunities & Hardships Scholarship can stay updated by visiting our website. Applications are now open, and the deadline to apply is October 1, 2025.
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