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Jacksonville University
Jacksonville, FL
Program Type/Area of Study: B.S. Kinesiology
Years Served: 17 MOS: En
Tell us about yourself:
I served in and retired from the United States Navy as an Engineman First Class Petty Officer. I am husband to a beautiful, caring and understanding wife as well as father of three great children, two boys and one girl. I am a full-time student at Jacksonville University. I work two part-time jobs, one at Naval Station Mayport for the MWR fitness facility and the other here at JU in the Career Development Center. At the CDC I assist fellow veterans with their resumes, cover letters and job/internship searches. Allocating enough time to each can be challenging. It’s tricky trying to find the right balance between school, work and family. I have been mostly successful at it thanks to the support I receive from my wife Kerry and because of the experience and training I received during my military career.
What prompted you to return to school?
One main reason I joined the Navy was to earn money for school via the GI Bill. Another reason was to find out what I wanted to do in life. My plan was complete my four year commitment and go to school. Four years turned into 17 and the rest is as they say “History.” I enjoyed my career and I could not overstate how much the experience enriched my life. My career gave me the appreciation and prospective to return to school. I found my passion and am on my way towards a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. With my degree, I hope to become a strength and conditioning coach for a professional college team. School was something I wanted for myself long ago and I went back because it had always been my intention.
Why did you choose Jacksonville University?
What military education benefits, such as the GI Bill, did you use?
What has your experience been like as a student?
Do you believe your military experience has made you a better student?
What advice do you have for veterans returning to school?
Have a solid plan in place and be ready to adapt. Things may get difficult and there may even be times when you consider quitting, but don’t! There are tools and skills within you that you may not be aware of, trust and believe in yourself and remember to keep moving forward. Obstacles may get in your way on the road to your goals but as long as you know your destination, you can always find an alternate route and realize your full potential.
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