Students at Randolph-Macon Academy (R-MA) are driven by a shared mission to lead, serve, and make a difference. For freshman Camilo Palmieri, these qualities are more than aspirations, they’re the foundation of his journey. As a distinguished Young Marine and recent Honor Graduate from the National Leadership Academy’s Senior Leadership School (SLS), Camilo is excelling in his dream of becoming a military leader.
Here, he shares his thoughts on why R-MA has become a critical part of his path to success and how it’s preparing him for his future at the U.S. Naval Academy.
Embracing Discipline and Responsibility at R-MA
Camilo’s journey with the Young Marines began at age eight, and over time, his commitment to its values of discipline, leadership, and responsibility only grew. His recent awards, including the Iron Mike Award, showcase his progress and dedication to service.
“One of my biggest responsibilities is to reflect the leadership, discipline, and responsibility that I show in my unit at school and home,” Camilo explains, crediting R-MA for the structure and sense of responsibility that motivates him. At R-MA, he feels held to high standards, which drives him to be a strong leader who embodies the values instilled at school and in the Young Marines.
Inspired by Leaders All-Around
One of Camilo’s key motivations is the example set by those around him. He finds inspiration from adult mentors and peers who lead by example and support each other’s growth. “Though I’ve been at this school for 4 years now, I’ve never thought of any one teacher or student as a mentor, but many,” he shares. “Each teacher I considered a mentor taught me something new and different.”
Through this support network, he has gained valuable life skills and looks forward to meeting more mentors throughout his time at R-MA. Their guidance, he believes, will continue to help him become a stronger student, leader, and friend.
Memories That Last and Lessons That Matter
For Camilo, R-MA is a close-knit community where friendships and memories are made. Reflecting on a favorite experience, he recalls spending time in the dorms with friends, enjoying a night of games, conversation, and basketball. “We had such a great time,” he says with a smile, fondly recalling the camaraderie he felt.
Balancing fun and discipline is a hallmark of his experience at R-MA, where character development classes have also helped him master time management. These skills, he shares, are essential in balancing his school responsibilities with the demanding commitments of the Young Marines.
Paving the Way to the U.S. Naval Academy
With a clear vision for the future, Camilo is determined to attend the U.S. Naval Academy, where he hopes to study economics and engineering. “R-MA is the best route I can take to get there,” he affirms.
The Academy is only one step in his journey; with ambitions to one day become an infantry or Special Operations Officer, Camilo is driven by his military and entrepreneurial dreams. He plans to apply everything he’s learned at our military school in Virginia and in the Young Marines to his goals, excited by the prospect of one day leading both in business and the military.
Advice for Fellow Students
Camilo encourages his peers to stay focused, work hard, and organize their time effectively. Rather than mastering every subject, he believes consistent effort and genuine interest are key to personal success and making a difference.
For Camilo Palmieri, R-MA is more than just a school—it’s a foundation for a purposeful future shaped by discipline and commitment. At R-MA, he’s found the support to pursue his dreams, equipping him to make a lasting impact.
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