Hi everyone, I'm currently serving on active duty and I am thinking about taking some college courses. Has anyone dealt with this? Is it feasible to balance both?
Absolutely, many active duty service members choose to take college courses while serving. It certainly requires time management and dedication, but with the right balance, it can be a productive way to make progress on your education goals. The Department of Defense offers Tuition Assistance programs for active duty, National Guard, and Reserve Component service members to help cover the cost of tuition, which removes a significant barrier for many.
Thanks to online courses, studying while on active duty has become more flexible. Depending on your workload and schedule, some service members find it easier to take one or two courses per semester, while others may be able to manage a full course load. Asynchronous courses can be particularly helpful for this since they allow you to complete your coursework at times that work best for you.
Having a conversation with your superior about your plans can also be beneficial. They can provide advice based on their own experiences and ensure that your studies won't conflict with your military responsibilities.
Remember, it's crucial to communicate with your professors at the beginning of the semester about being on active duty. There may be times when you are deployed or otherwise unable to turn in assignments on time, and most professors will be accommodating once they understand the situation.
In essence, while it may be a challenge, active duty service members can certainly pursue and succeed in college courses consistently. With good time management, open communication, and a clear understanding of your educational and military responsibilities, you can certainly succeed at both. Good luck!
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