What Has the Military Done for Your Higher Education?
My journey to higher education would not have been the same without the support of the military, particularly through the GI Bill. For the last two years of my Bachelor of Science (BS) and the entire duration of my master's degree, the Korean GI Bill covered a significant portion of my tuition fees.
Benefits of the GI Bill for Higher Education
With the AA degree already in hand before enlisting, I was further propelled by the economic resources provided by both institutions during my undergraduate years. The military not only subsidized a vast majority of my educational costs but also provided invaluable resources that shaped my academic and personal journey. My bachelors degrees in Psychology and Electronics and Instrumentation Technology were complemented by significant financial support, reducing my total cost to approximately $600.
Advanced Degrees and Professional Development
The military also supported my pursuit of advanced degrees, including a Masters in Human Resources Management from Pepperdine University (1977-1978) and a Master's in Electronics Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School (1980-1983). My other academic pursuits, such as the Masters of Divinity from Gettysburg Lutheran Seminary (1993-1997) and an ongoing PhD, were greatly influenced by the scholarships and financial aid provided through the military. Their support was instrumental in shaping my educational and professional trajectory.
Modern Military Education Programs
While I benefitted from these programs, it's worth noting that the era of the modern GI Bill offers an even more comprehensive financial support system for veterans. The Global Campus program, officially known as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, ensures that those who serve can get the best financial assistance possible for their pursuit of higher education.
Moreover, a similar program called the Veteran-Education Assistance Program (VEAP) also played a key role in my financial assistance. Although I managed to cash out and lose half of the matching funds, the employment I secured was already lucrative, making the additional financial support less necessary.
The Impact on Career Path
The comprehensive military education benefits, such as those provided through the Community College of the Air Force, also helped me immensely in transferring my training into a viable career. The skills and knowledge gained in the military have been directly applicable to my chosen field and have followed me into my civilian careers, making my transition smoother and more effective.
Conclusion
The military's support in higher education has been a transformative journey, enriching my educational attainment and laying the foundation for my professional success. Whether it's the Korean GI Bill or modern programs such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the support provided by the military in terms of education and financial assistance is indispensable and highly beneficial for those looking to further their education.
Key Takeaways
GI Bill: A valuable financial resource for educational pursuits in both undergraduate and graduate studies. Military Education Benefits: Comprehensive programs that support veterans in achieving higher education goals. Veterans' Education Assistance Program (VEAP): An additional program that offered financial assistance to those serving in the military. Transformational Influence: The military's support has directly contributed to career success and personal growth.