Cadet Profiles

Mark Snyder ’25

March 25, 2025 by rnelson

Hometown: Warrington, Pennsylvania

Major: Political Science

Outfit: Squadron 16

Mark Snyder ’25 currently serves as Squadron 16’s Public Relations Officer. Prior to this year, Mark served as the unit’s Chaplain.

Off the Quad, Mark serves as the President of the Texas A&M Singing Cadets, and is notably the first cadet to serve in the position in 30 years. In his free time, Mark enjoys flying.

“The challenges that I faced in the past four years have made me a better person and a more capable leader. It has been hard, but I have gained experiences that have helped me lead in Squadron 16 and the Singing Cadets, and will also be a valuable resource to lean on as a commissioned officer one day. Whether it’s planning a BBQ or conducting my choir, I’ve consistently had the opportunity to develop my leadership skills. Without the foundations that the Corps built up in me, I wouldn’t be the man I am today,” Mark said of his time in the Corps.

After graduation, Mark plans to commission into the United States Air Force, where he hopes to serve as a Pilot or a Combat Systems Officer.

Claire Ongais ’25

January 29, 2025 by rnelson

Hometown: San Diego, California

Major: Sociology

Outfit: 1st Battalion Staff/Company F-2

Originally from Company F-2, Claire Ongais ’25 currently serves as the Commander of the Fish Drill Team and the Executive Officer of the First Battalion.

Previously, Claire served as the First Battalion Sergeant Major and has been a part of the Fish Drill Team since her freshman year. In her free time, Claire enjoys running and horseback riding.

‘The Corps has taught me a lot about how to work through tough situations. The challenges I have faced here have helped me to build a foundation of strong values, leadership, and communication skills that I know will help me succeed after graduation,” Claire said of her time in the Corps.

After graduation, Claire plans to attend Coast Guard Officer Candidate School.

Olivia Baptiste ’25

October 17, 2024 by rnelson

Hometown: Parker, Colorado

Major: Biomedical Science

Outfit: Squadron 20

A member of Squadron 20, Olivia Baptiste ’25 currently serves as the Commanding Officer of Parsons Mounted Cavalry.

Off the Quad, Olivia volunteers with the Courtney Cares Equine Therapy Program and a local nursing home. In her free time, Olivia enjoys hiking, trail running with her dog, Nellie, fly fishing and baking.

“The Corps has blessed me with countless opportunities to better understand my gifts and how I can use them in service to others. Beyond that, I have gained valuable experience in observing others’ strengths and weaknesses and learning how to develop and grow alongside them,” Olivia said of her time in the Corps.

After graduation, Olivia plans to attend veterinary school and pursue a career as a rural mixed-practice veterinarian.

James Guandolo ’25

September 23, 2024 by rnelson

Hometown: Highland Park, Texas

Major: Computer Science

Outfit: Corps Staff/Company S-2

Originally from Company S-2, James Guandolo ’25 currently serves as the 2024-2025 Deputy Corps Commander. Prior to being named the Deputy Corps Commander, James served as the First Regiment Sergeant Major.

In addition to his leadership position on the Quad, James is a member of the Ross Volunteer Company and the Recon Company. As a freshman, James was a member of the Fish Drill Team, where he was part of the team's 12th consecutive championship win at Tulane University's NROTC Mardi Gras Drill Meet.

Off the Quad, James is a member of Texas A&M's Cyber Leadership Development Program.

“My experience in the Corps of Cadets has profoundly shaped my character and abilities; equipping me with essential skills for life. From the very beginning, Texas A&M's core values of respect, excellence, leadership, loyalty, integrity and selfless service were ingrained in me,” James said of his time in the Corps.

"The Corps provided me with numerous resources, from academic support to practical experience. These resources were invaluable in my academic and personal growth, teaching me the importance of taking initiative and seeking guidance when necessary. I've grown more assertive, resilient, creative and confident. These lessons in critical thinking, decisive action and effective communication will continue to guide me as I step into future challenges. I am confident in the foundation that the Corps has provided me," he continued.

After graduation, James plans to commission into the United States Marine Corps.

Aurora Villarreal ’25

August 22, 2024 by rnelson

Hometown: Woodland Park, Colorado

Major: Sociology

Outfit: Corps Staff/Company F-2

Originally from Company F-2, Aurora Villarreal ’25 currently serves as the 2024-2025 Corps Public Relations (PR) Officer. Prior to being named the Corps PR Officer, Aurora served as the Corps PR Sergeant for the 2023-2024 academic year.

In addition to her leadership position on the Quad, Aurora serves as the Co-Captain for the Corps Women’s Soccer team.

Off the Quad, Aurora works as a patient care technician on a cardio monitoring unit.

“The Corps has taught me to make every decision with purpose and intentionality. Understanding that everything in the Corps has a purpose and learning what that means to me has changed how I respond in certain situations, how I work with others and more,” Aurora said of her time in the Corps.

After graduation, Aurora plans to pursue a nursing degree and work as a cardiovascular nurse.