Billy Fields is a senior at Texas-Tyler and is a Psychology and Biochemistry major on a Pre-Med track. He aspires to be a Psychiatric Physician and work with active duty service members and veterans.
He joined SAE after his military service because he was looking for a network-building opportunity. Little did he know he would find his family among the brotherhood.
“These guys mean the world to me,” Billy shares. “We support each other through the good times and bad times, and hold each other accountable to each other’s goals and the standards of a True Gentleman.”
Billy, building on his SAE experience, joined SAE’s True Gentleman Mentor Program and was matched with Dr. Joe Halcomb (Kentucky ’74) to support his career growth. He answered a few questions to highlight the program’s benefits:
How has your involvement in SAE’s Mentor/Mentee Program impacted your personal or professional growth?
“I think it’s important to have mentors in your life who come from similar life experiences. It really puts an emphasis on representation and allows you to dream past what you may think is possible for yourself. The accountability that came with telling someone about my dreams and aspirations and them holding me to that standard allowed me to stay focused and motivated. At the end of the day, I know I have someone in my corner who’s not only invested in me as a person but also in my career and educational journey.”
What are some key lessons or skills you’ve gained through your relationship with Joe Halcomb?
“Mr. Joe Halcomb is a very impressive person with a slightly intimidating resume. I recall feeling like I wasn’t the type of mentee that Mr. Joe would want, but when we had our first conversation, I was reminded that we’re brothers at the end of the day. He taught me a lot about perseverance and dedication to your goals just through hearing about his journey. Our relationship is still quite new, but it’s easy to tell that he’s the type of mentor who’s willing to go above and beyond to ensure I have the resources I need to accomplish my goals.”
How do you see the mentor/mentee bond reflecting SAE’s values?
“SAE’s core values revolve around Friendship, Scholarship, Leadership, and Service. I see those values represented in Mr. Joe, so it allows me to strive to emulate his character. I attended Ritual Academy this semester, and he was one of many active alumni who volunteered their time for the benefit of the active undergraduate members. Seeing his leadership and service displayed in person was amazing. I recalled thinking, as he was up there speaking during Ritual Academy, how cool it was to have a mentor who was still so active in SAE.”
In what ways has being part of SAE helped you navigate challenges during your college journey or early career?
“I joined SAE because I don’t believe you can be successful in life on your own. It takes the support of your network, and for me, that network is my friends, family, and now my brothers in SAE. I’ve enjoyed getting to know brothers from all over the U.S., whether that be through national conferences or visiting nearby chapters for the sake of fellowship. Nonetheless, I’ve been privileged enough to build connections that will last a lifetime. I’ll continue to establish connections amongst my brothers and cultivate an environment where we are able to help each other thrive and achieve our goals together.”
