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Kayla Lightfoot MPA ’22

“My interests that grew during my time at MIIS, coupled with the discipline and dedication I learned while in the military, propel me every day in my role and my ambitions”

Kayla Lightfoot MPA ’22
Kayla Lightfoot served in the Army on active duty from 2015 to 2020. She is a cybercrimes and cryptocurrency investigator at Chainalysis Government Solutions.

Why did you decide to pursue national service and the military?

For a few reasons, mainly because I was a young undergraduate with big goals and no experience to take seriously. I saw the military as the best option at the time to learn new skills and broaden my horizons. I was also afraid that I would regret it later if I didn’t serve. 

Why did you decide to attend Middlebury following your military service, and in what ways does it complement your previous experience?

I discovered the Middlebury Institute while I was enlisted. I was at the Defense Language Institute in Monterey learning Arabic. I came to develop a deep love for learning languages and immersing myself in other cultures. When I got out of the military, MIIS seemed like the perfect place for me. MIIS allowed me to expand on my communication skills. Collaborating with the student population there also gave me access to diverse lenses and experiences.

How did your experiences at Middlebury and with military service factor into career opportunities or pursuits?

The Financial Crime Management specialization at MIIS exposed me to the financial compliance industry, where I developed a special interest in financial technology, specifically cryptocurrencies. Right out of MIIS, I landed a job as a cryptocurrency investigator at the largest blockchain data and analytics company in the industry! My interests that grew during my time at MIIS, coupled with the discipline and dedication I learned while in the military, propel me every day in my role and my ambitions. I am constantly looking for new opportunities to grow my knowledge and further develop the industry that I love and have the opportunity to be part of, thanks to MIIS!

What advice would you give to others who may be considering military service?

Do your research and talk to people who served; each branch can offer different experiences and opportunities. Know your reasons for wanting to serve. They are unique to you and only you truly know your “why.”

Is there anything you’d like to add?

The military and MIIS experiences are what you make them. Both have provided me with memories and lessons that have been invaluable in my personal and professional development.