Hi folks, I'm currently serving in the military but I'd like to continue my education. I wanted to know if anyone has experience with doing an online degree course while being a part of the military. How do you manage both commitments together? Any tips?
Servicemen and women have been successfully combining military service with further education for many years, and the proliferation of online programs has made this even more achievable. It'll certainly be challenging with your military duties, but it's definitely possible.
Effective time management is the key. Schedule your study periods around your service commitments. Choose a program with flexible learning arrangements, so you can study at your own pace and time. Allocate specific time slots for your studies in the week, and try hard to stick to them.
Being in the military would offer you benefits like the GI Bill and grants such as the Tuition Assistance (TA) program, which you might want to look into. These can cover part or all of your tuition fees, easing the financial load.
Having clear communication with your academic institution and instructors about your service commitments is important, as they can provide you with the necessary support or accommodations.
Another tip would be to remember that it's a marathon, not a sprint. Don't try to take on too many classes at once, just because you want to finish the degree quickly. It's not a race—you still need to be able to learn and absorb the material, as well as handle your military duties.
A supportive support system can be really beneficial, find a group of people who are also in the military and pursuing education at the same time. The shared experiences and tips could be helpful.
And lastly, don’t forget the advanced technical skills and unique leadership experience you're gaining from the military which can be valued in many fields of study. The military is an education in and of itself!
Good luck on your educational journey while serving our country!
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