Welcome! I’m Rick, and I’m thrilled to introduce you to Major Mingle, where we focus on giving you the best possible guidance in choosing a career path and selecting a college major. My passion lies in helping students and parents unlock their potential by navigating the often daunting world of college planning.
Here at Major Mingle, our mission is straightforward yet profound: we aim to empower you with the information and resources needed to pursue education with minimal financial burden. It’s about achieving your academic goals and enjoying a debt-free future, which we believe is entirely possible with the right planning and insight.
With over 21 years of experience in the field of career and college advising, I’ve worked closely with countless families, crafting personalized strategies that align with their ambitions and financial capabilities. I love sharing these insights because I know how transformative it can be when someone feels confident about their educational path.
The approach at Major Mingle is rooted in practical wisdom and innovation, drawing from a diverse array of professional experiences. Whether it’s understanding the nuances of financial aid or choosing the perfect college major, we’re here to help you every step of the way. This brings us to how my journey began and the events that inspired me to take this path. Let’s move on to that story next, about how my passion for guidance grew from my early days as a Boy Scout.
My Journey from Boy Scout to Career Guide
My passion for helping others can be traced back to my days as a Boy Scout. Becoming an Eagle Scout was not just about earning badges; it was a pivotal moment where I learned the value of service, leadership, and community involvement. Those foundational experiences set me on a path that would define much of my life and career.
After high school, I took my love for teamwork and discipline into sports and later into college where I played on The Ohio State University bowling team for five years. Balancing athletics with academics, I graduated with a major in Health and Physical Education. This blend of physical activity and education laid the groundwork for my understanding of discipline and commitment — values I carry into career coaching today.
Post-graduation, I was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, a period that taught me invaluable lessons in leadership and resilience. My six-year service concluded with an honorable discharge as a 1st Lieutenant, and these experiences enriched my perspective on guiding others through structured and strategic planning.
Upon transitioning to civilian life, I embarked on a diverse professional journey. Starting with the Scott Fertilizer Company, I soon ventured into entrepreneurship, managing businesses from dry cleaning and uniform rentals to consulting for franchise owners. These roles honed my skills in business strategy and customer service.
The pivotal transition to coaching students on college planning occurred as I realized the profound impact of financial literacy and strategic education planning. Through my insurance and financial planning business, I began advising families, and it was here that Major Mingle was born.
Now, let’s talk about what truly underpins all these professional experiences — my personal life, filled with rich stories and hobbies that keep me grounded and motivated. We’ll dive into that next.
Personal Stories and Passions
Beyond professional achievements, my personal life has been a source of immense joy and inspiration. I’ve had the fortune of sharing my life with my college sweetheart, and we recently celebrated 58 wonderful years together. Our family has grown to include two sons and five grandchildren, all of whom are constant reminders of the importance of nurturing and guiding future generations.
Hobbies like bowling, golf, and woodworking keep me balanced and fulfilled. These activities offer me not just relaxation, but also opportunities to continually challenge myself and learn new skills. Whether I’m refining a woodwork piece in my workshop or perfecting my swing at the golf course, these passions echo my lifelong commitment to growth and enjoyment.
Creating Major Mingle was a natural extension of my life’s journey. It combines my professional insights and personal ethos to create a platform where students and families can find genuine support and guidance. My goal here is to make college planning and career selection a clear, manageable, and exciting process for you.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and the vision behind Major Mingle. If you have any questions or need support on your educational journey, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you navigate this path with ease and success.
Warm regards, Rick.