Navy/Marine ROTC

James Guandolo ’25

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A studio headshot of James Guandolo in his Corps uniform.

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. 

Josh Palinkas ’24

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Josh Palinkas '24 smiles in his Cav uniform while riding a horse

Hometown: Fulshear, Texas

Major: Chemistry

Outfit: Company P-2

Josh Palinkas ’24 is currently a Platoon Leader and the Operations Officer for Company P-2. 

On the Quad, Josh is an active member of Parsons Mounted Cavalry and the Corps Marathon team.

Off the Quad, Josh serves as the External Relations Co-Chair for AggieTEACH, a program that provides teacher certification for those interested in becoming middle or high school educators. 

“The Corps has challenged me almost every day, but it’s also completely transformed me from the person that showed up for day one of FOW,” Josh said of his time in the Corps. 

After graduation, Josh plans to commission into the United States Navy, where he hopes to serve as a Submarine Warfare Officer. After his time in the military, Josh hopes to work as a high school physics or chemistry educator.

William Dean ’23

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William Dean '23 gives a gig em on the Quad

Hometown: Marlboro, New Jersey

Major: Architectural Engineering

Outfit: Squadron 21

Currently a member of Squadron 21, William Dean ’23 also serves as the 2022-2023 Commander of the NROTC Midshipmen Battalion. 

On the Quad, Will serves as a Ross Volunteer and is a member of the Corps Marathon team. 

Off the Quad, Will is a member of the Texas A&M chapter of the Architectural Engineering Institute and the Society of American Military Engineers. 

“The Texas A&M Corps of Cadets has provided me countless opportunities that I would not have been able to experience without the program. From going to Boston to compete in the Boston Marathon, to having the privilege to lead over 300 prospective Naval and Marine Corps Officers, the Corps of Cadets has allowed me to heighten my skills and prepare myself for multiple careers in the future,” Will said of his time in the Corps. 

After graduating from Texas A&M, Will plans to commission into the United States Navy and either serve as a Naval Aviator or as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer. After his time in the Navy, Will hopes to return to Aggieland to work for the Texas A&M Foundation. 

Nidhi Nagireddy ’23

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Nidhi Nagireddy '23

Hometown: Chantilly, Virginia

Major: Political Science

Outfit: Company E-2

Nidhi Nagireddy ’23 currently serves as the Executive Officer for Company E-2. Nidhi also currently serves as NROTC’s November Department Executive Officer, and is a member of the O.R. Simpson Honor Society. 

Off the Quad, Nidhi is involved in the Student Government Association and Class Councils.

“The Corps of Cadets is an organization like no other – I’ve had so many unique and invaluable experiences to help better myself and my peers. The leadership experiences provided here have made me into the best version of myself, and I can’t wait to use what I’ve learned in my career and beyond,” Nidhi said of her time in the Corps.

After graduation, Nidhi plans to commission into the United States Navy, where she will serve as a Surface Warfare Officer.

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