Santa Rosa senior enlists early in preparation for Air Force

News release from Santa Rosa Academy:

MENIFEE -- Santa Rosa Academy senior Brianna Clay was recently accepted and sworn into the U.S. Air Force. As a result of her "early bird" registration, she will leave for Texas next August, then move on to school for Operations Intelligence, the job she selected for her four-year enlistment.

When asked why she chose the Air Force, Brianna said, “It best suited me out of all the military branches. I wanted to intertwine myself with the future, and I believe the Air Force will provide that for me. Choosing the Air Force has been a decision of mine since I was a freshman.”

The Clay family has a long history of serving our country through the military. Brianna’s father, Anthony Clay, was in the Marines and is now a police officer for the newly established Menifee Police Department.

“He is one of the many people who inspired me to join the military,” said Brianna.

Other family members in the military include Brianna’s great grandfather, Hilario Martinez, who was in the Army and served in the Korean War.

“My family is very close and loving. We support each other and are a team. I wouldn’t be who I am today without them,” she added.

When asked why she chose Operations Intelligence, Brianna said, “I wanted a job that was important to me and could act as a head start to possible future professions. My goal is to challenge myself and become the best I can be. I want to be able to reach my full potential and know that I did my absolute best.”

Brianna enrolled at Santa Rosa Academy’s Red Track when she was in seventh grade. She then transferred to the White Track for high school and was offered a spot on the Blue Track in 10th grade.

About Santa Rosa Academy’s role in her education, Brianna said, “Santa Rosa Academy played a role in my preparation for the Air Force. They didn’t exactly help prepare me for the tests and applications; instead, they built my character and wisdom. At SRA, I learned confidence and strength, with their high standards and expectations, I feel that I am ready for the future ahead of me and for the obstacles to come with it.”

Teachers and friends describe Brianna as reliable, determined, family-oriented, charismatic, and caring.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted students worldwide. However, Brianna feels, “The pandemic has affected my schooling during my senior year in a positive way. Not only have my grades been affected positively, but my character also has. I have learned during this pandemic to be grateful for what I have. I try to find a positive outlook and continue to enjoy life.”