Post-9/11 GI Bill success story

Grain Valley, MO

In 2009 I retired from the USAF after more than 30 years on active duty. I was eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, so I applied for it, received my certificate of eligibility and enrolled in a Master of Arts in Management and Leadership program. I completed that degree in one year, so I still had two years of benefit remaining. I earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Law Enforcement Leadership, and a Post Masters Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Homeland Security Leadership & Policy.

With these degrees I started teaching for a local private four-year university, and after a couple of years I was hired to be a campus center director. I did this for two years but was made an offer I couldn't refuse to work for another private college, and I currently serve as an assistant director for a large metropolitan campus.

Without the GI Bill I never would have been able to afford the degrees I now proudly display in my office. I am thankful to The American Legion for its advocacy for veterans education, and to the taxpayers of our great nation who funded my academic journey. If you have not taken advantage of your veterans education benefit, I strongly encourage you to do so.

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