A Soldier Studies History Online While Making History in Iraq

I began my online education in 2003. I was finding it hard to physically attend classes as I progressed in rank and responsibility. As my hours got longer and my workload got heavier, I figured it would fit me well, which it still does today. After taking a few online courses successfully, I decided it was perfect for me. I was able to work away at my classes at any time, even if I was on a deployment, as long as I had Internet access.

I spent one year in Iraq in the Northern City of Mosul from October  2004 to September 2005. I successfully completed an online course in  College Algebra while I was over there.

Since 2003, when I decided to pursue an Associate's Degree in General  Studies, the online courses I have completed are: Humanities and Fine  Arts, Public Speaking, Business Management, and College Algebra. I am  currently taking English Literature in pursuit of a Bachelor’s Degree  in History.

Once enrolled, I get on the school website that is emailed to me,  browse around for a while, and get familiar navigating through it. I  then locate the syllabus and print it out and look it over until I  completely comprehend it. Next, I print out all of the lessons for the  subject. Finally, I put everything in order, prioritize everything,  develop a plan, begin implementing the plan, and most importantly,  stick with the plan.

It works out just fine. Of all of the classes I've taken online, I  always have my questions answered in a timely, accurate, and  professional manner. Additionally, if there is any information to be  passed on to the students, it gets disseminated quickly and  proficiently.

I am taking these online courses to set me up for success after I  retire from the Army -- a year from now.  I refuse to stop taking  college courses until I graduate with a master's degree, even if I have  to take one class at a time like I am doing now.

I am considering becoming a state park ranger in Washington, which  requires a Bachelor’s Degree in History. Teaching at a high school  level also interests me. If I did that, I'd eventually want to become a principal.

I recommend that everyone should start early in their career. I wished  the same opportunities were available to me when I joined the Army  nineteen years ago. College is completely paid for right now, including  books, by the Army. Taking college courses online is not easier than  going through the actual class, but they are more convenient. These  courses work out perfectly for active duty soldiers that have rigorous,  fluctuating hours. One must be punctual and disciplined to be  successful. The secret is to do your best, and to never quit.