Military Student Spotlight: Meet Army Corporal Timothy Smith
Timothy Smith, an Army corporal serving at Fort Eustis, has his sights on a career in computer science. Smith has four years of active duty service and views Thomas Nelson now becoming Virginia Peninsula Community College as an ideal means to help him successfully achieve his goals.
Here, Smith gives insight about his student experience while also sharing a few details about himself.
Describe your background ... hometown, education, etc. What prompted you to join the military?
I was born and raised in Moreno Valley, California and graduated from Allegiant Christian school, part of a homeschooling organization. I joined the military because I did not know what I wanted to do with my career yet and didn't want extensive college debt without a predetermined path.
What is your military job/occupational specialty? What are the duties associated with your current position?
I am a horizontal construction engineer and I work with heavy construction equipment such as bulldozers.
When did you decide to go back to school and why did you select Thomas Nelson?
I decided last year to attend college to further my career and create opportunities in the future.
What degree are you pursuing and why did you choose that program? When are you scheduled to graduate? What are your academic goals upon completing your studies at Thomas Nelson? I'm pursuing a degree in computer science with a focus in mobile software engineering. I hope to graduate in 2024 and continue to Virginia Tech to finish an undergraduate degree.
Describe your experience at the College … the registration/enrollment process, quality of instruction and available support when facing difficulties.
My overall experience has been excellent. My teachers have been knowledgeable and helpful, and the material is understandable and intriguing. My only complaint is that my JST has yet to be processed, as it was received in October 2021.
How do you balance the demands of work, your education, and your personal life? I sacrifice much of my personal time, including any lunch breaks or small respite, to work on any course that I can. If an opportunity arises that allows me to complete homework, I take it. I generally work from 0630 to 1700, so my only personal time I allot myself is weekend nights.
What has been the biggest adjustment, if any, you have had to make in going back to school? If you have thought about quitting, what persuaded you to continue?
I have not had a drastic lifestyle change. The only difference is less time to pursue personal hobbies. I never thought to quit, since, in comparison to my work, school is incredibly easy.
What advice would you offer to fellow service members who may be thinking about going back to school?
It's the easiest thing in the world, but you are going to have to give up your personal time and some sleep
Have you completed most of your classes online? If so, describe your on-line learning experience with Thomas Nelson Community College and the advantages it afforded.
Nearly all classes have been online, and cutting out commute time, waiting around for class to start, and a strict attendance time, I'd estimate I have roughly five hours more per week that would be wasted otherwise.
What are your academic and career goals in the next five to 10 years? How will your education help you achieve those goals?
In five years, starting software development for Android applications. In 10 years, hopefully remotely programming from home. My education will open doors to jobs in my field.
Would you recommend Thomas Nelson to other military students? If so, why?
Yes, the online classes are well designed, and the school is willing to work with service members. (Thomas Nelson) has a large military demographic due to its location, and they take care of their military students.