I’m very excited to say I’m finally going back to school! Over a decade ago, I and many others saw the sad truth: I was a horrible student. Yes, I did amazingly well on tests and homework–only when I showed up or turned in the assignment. I have grown significantly since then. I’ve had some triumphs. I’ve had some trials. But I’ve always continued to learn from my experiences. I’m a father now, and my new experiences tell me it’s time I start setting a better example. I’ve definitely started learning from my experiences, but now I realize I have a little one watching and learning from me every second of every day.
Starting January 10, 2015, I will begin another leg on my journey as I pursue a Bachelor’s of Science in Workforce Education & Development from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. The degree features an accelerated one-year completion program that’s closely linked to the Navy College program. I’ll be spending every other weekend sitting in a classroom not far away from my office at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. It will certainly require a lot of effort, but it’s the example I want to set for my little one.
I’m still figuring out how to best finance this endeavor. It’s important enough that I will take out student loans if I have to do so. But I’m also pursuing grants, scholarships, and soon-to-come a social campaign. I’ll keep you updated on my journey.
