Anthony Patteron is creating his own path to success while helping others do the same
By: Sieanna Hart
As a business management student with a finance minor at The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), Patterson is determined to overcome adversity and forge his own path to success while helping others.
Patterson stays dedicated to helping others even while being a full-time employee and a fulltime honors student in the joint undergraduate master’s program (JUMP) at UAH.
“It’s not easy, but I know it can be worse. I am just very grateful for the chance to grow academically and professionally.”
Born into a military family, Patterson moved multiple times throughout his life. He was born in Germany and spent many of his childhood years in New York and Florida before moving to Alabama. All throughout high school, he had his mind set on joining the medical field and becoming a doctor. “I had everything planned out. I was going to major in biology and then go to medical school,” says Patterson. “I soon realized I wanted to help people in a different way. Based on my past experiences and encouragement from my mom, I made the switch to business.”
Previously working as a general assistant manager at Dairy Queen, Patterson was in charge of managing over 40 team members, ensuring that they all met their expected goals and balanced daily operations. In this position, he developed his love for management and business, influencing his future career plans.
Patterson now works full-time as a contract specialist for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, where he has learned how to navigate the complexities of contract management and procurement.
“I really enjoy working in this position and through this position, I can also help set an example for fellow students about career development opportunities.” One way Patterson does this is through his role as treasurer of the National Society of Black Engineers on campus. Not only does he handle the club’s finances, but he also implements career development opportunities for students throughout all of UAH, expanding beyond business students.
“I think it is very important to help out other students, especially minorities, in forging their own paths, and encourage various ways of professional development such as connecting students to different internship opportunities and holding LinkedIn workshops,” he says. “I want us all to succeed and not be held back by our differences.”
Patterson also regularly volunteers at the Huntsville Early Learning Center, where he tutors third and fifth-grade students and develops lesson plans. To balance working full-time, volunteering, being a JUMP student and maintaining high grades, Patterson draws inspiration from his mother.
“My mom has been my biggest motivator throughout my life. She is a military veteran and has taught me to always stay focused and keep going even when things get hard.”
Patterson is excited for the future and where it takes him. His advice for other students is to advocate for themselves and others while being empathetic and open to new opportunities.