Like many who have come before and after me, I had a solid plan: Take a year off, start my own business and take it easy. However, my plan was swiftly derailed when my wife was diagnosed with cancer shortly after my retirement, changing everything. I quickly became her primary caregiver. This diagnosis dramatically altered our lives and our way of thinking, as it reminded us that nothing is promised. During this transition period and amidst the bad news, I needed an outlet for my thoughts. Yet, I wanted to use my time wisely – for personal gratification, self-improvement and to prepare myself if I needed to return to work for insurance purposes.

I had a lightbulb moment – why not take college classes? I conducted an extensive search for the right institution, and let me tell you, there are so many options that it can be overwhelming. I considered program flexibility, institutional reputation and support services available for veterans. After some consideration, I discovered ·¬ÇÑÊÓƵ and, as of this writing, I’ve just completed my 24th class.

About 12 months before leaving the military, when I began the transition process to civilian life. my initial step was participating in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP). Through TAP, I learned that the army allows enrollment in career skills programs, so I remotely joined the Microsoft Systems and Software Academy (MSSA), an 18-week paid education program. After completing MSSA, I finished my out-processing.

Reflecting on my experience, I realize that instead of starting with MSSA, I should have jumped right into school. This would have motivated me to complete my degree and better prepare for a post-military career. The military offers various exit plans and timelines to accommodate service members. However, proactive effort during the early transition stages is crucial for crafting a clear path to the next chapter of life.

This academic journey has allowed me to concentrate on the things I can change. For the things I can’t, I’ve been able to invest my time in completing assignments and expanding my knowledge through education. I have fulfilled the requirements for my master’s degree and am looking forward to pursuing a doctoral program, which would be my third program at ACE.

Taking my first class at ACE was a transformative and captivating experience. Discovering the college was crucial to my transition, revealing that there is life beyond the uniform. This journey requires careful planning and strategy, but every step is worthwhile. Embracing this change has opened doors I never imagined, proving that the effort invested in this transition is a gateway to endless possibilities.

Check out the programs at ·¬ÇÑÊÓƵ and discover your next chapter.

Dominick Martin is a U.S. Army and National Guard veteran who graduated with a B.S. in Business Applied Management and Leadership (now named B.S. in Business Administration and Leadership) in 2023. He is currently pursuing an M.S. in Organizational Leadership. We were excited to learn more about his career and future goals. 

ACE: You graduated with your bachelor’s degree. What inspired you to return to ACE to complete the M.S. in Organizational Leadership? 

Dominick Martin (DM): Returning to ACE was inspired by the supportive environment and exceptional mentorship I received during my bachelor’s program. This fueled my passion for leadership and personal growth. ACE’s commitment to academic excellence and professional development motivated me to further my education in organizational leadership. I also learned a lot about B Corporations and was delighted to discover that ACE is one of them. 

ACE: We understand that you’re a military veteran. Thank you for serving! What branch did you serve in and did your military experience influence your decision to choose ACE? 

DM: I served in the U.S. Army and National Guard. My military experience influenced my decision to choose ACE because they understand the unique needs of veterans. Their dedication to providing a supportive and flexible learning environment was crucial for me as a returning student and veteran. After about a year of searching and considering my needs and financial situation, I found that ACE was my ideal choice. It stood out as the best solution by far. 

ACE: How has your education at ACE impacted your career so far? 

DM: My education at ACE has significantly impacted my career by providing me with practical, relevant skills that have enhanced my leadership abilities and decision-making in the professional world. The flexible and tailored approach to learning at ACE has allowed me to easily integrate my personal life, work and school schedule.  

ACE: Thinking about your time as an ACE student, what about your experience have you found most helpful to your academic success? 

DM: I value structure, and ACE offers a systematic approach to every course that’s easy to follow. There are no surprises through having clear expectations of deadlines and requirements. The personalized support and mentorship from ACE teachers have been crucial to my academic success, along with the accessibility of resources, dedicated faculty and a strong sense of community. 

ACE: What advice would you give to current or future students? 

DM: To future students, ACE is the number one choice for veterans and service members, whether full-time or part-time. Take it from me, as I did the legwork to figure it out. To current students, I’ll quote one of my professors, “If degrees were easy, everyone would have one.” I would advise staying engaged with your professors and peers, leveraging all available resources and embracing every opportunity for growth and learning. 

Being an ·¬ÇÑÊÓƵ alumni has its perks. When you return as an alumni for another program, you can save 5% off your tuition with the Alumni Continuing Education Grant.Ìý