Florida Soldier Graduates in Iraq

Photo By Spc. Karin Leach | Chief Warrant Officer Michael-Paul A. McKoy, human resource technician, works at his desk on May 14 in Baghdad.  

IRAQ

05.16.2009

Story by Pvt. Karin Leach 

114th Public Affairs Detachment

Chief Warrant Officer Michael-Paul A. McKoy, a Miramar, Fla., native and human resource technician Multi-National Corps - Iraq Administration Awards, is scheduled to earn his bachelor of science in human resources with a minor in business administration from Columbia Southern University, May 17, at the Al Faw Palace, Baghdad.

After 120 credits and six years of taking classes on and off at various schools, McKoy decided to participate in the graduation while deployed to Camp Victory, Baghdad.

"Furthering your education can boost you in many different ways, whether it is to develop a job skill, score a promotion, or begin a new career higher learning can provide a myriad of opportunities," said McKoy. "The hardest part is getting into classes and sticking to it."

Lisa Brooks a psychology instructor with the University Maryland University College in Iraq has seen many students further their education by taking various courses ranging from an Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery improvement class to a Basic English class.

"I hope service members realize it's possible for them to earn a degree," said Lisa Brooks. "It may take Servicemembers longer to earn a degree than most people at home, but they can do it."

The Education Center enables Soldiers to take online courses and offers core classes such as English to take in a classroom setting.

"It's not like normal colleges, we have about 15 students per class," said Brooks. "The one on one contact available to students provides personal interaction and builds camaraderie. I think many students are more focused when taking classes here. They don't have all the distractions of home here."

The education center can also be a liaison for Soldiers desiring to take online courses or test out of classes.

"The facilities are definitely available," said McKoy. "It's on the individual to be disciplined to take classes and stick with it. This is all depending on work load also."

The graduation encompasses around 50 service members graduating from classes at 10 different schools.

"Watching these students graduate is the greatest feeling ever," said Brooks. "I feel like a proud parent. So many have issues going on at home, but they push forward and finally they have achieved this monumental moment. "

McKoy is looking to further his education and begin his master's degree while deployed.

"I hope Soldiers realize that it takes time, but education a necessity as the military won't be a career plan forever," said McKoy. "Soldiers need something to fall back on once they retire or separate from the military."

• Date Taken: 05.16.2009
• Date Posted: 05.16.2009 13:46
• Story ID: 33708
• Location: IQ