Launchpad

I was a nuclear Machinist Mate Third Class in the U.S. Navy. After my discharge, I was unable to secure a job with my training and experience. I applied for three years without success at Y12 National Security Complex, a leading nuclear security unit in the Department of Energy. I also had an aversion to starting fresh and pursuing a degree in a field that I was not passionate about. I started doing some research into veteran-friendly colleges that accept military credits. That is how I came across TESU. This institution has allowed me develop knowledge in the field that I love and worked extremely hard for while simultaneously working a full-time job to provide for my family. As I was finishing my degree at TESU, I started networking at a nuclear conference and had a chance to meet the Y12 team. I just got my dream job at Y12 as I graduated from TESU. In fact, I started my new job on September 18, the same day I received my TESU diploma in the mail!”

Earning my Bachelor of Arts Degree in English allowed me to have another opportunity to interview for my dream job in public relations at an institution of higher learning. My degree has giving me the knowledge in many different academic topics, along with broadening my literary horizons thanks to my English major. It has also given me the hunger to get back into graduate schooling.”

I couldn’t be prouder to say that I have finally earned my associate degree! I changed career paths, and I now work in personal risk insurance. I am excited about the opportunities the company, and industry in general, have to offer. Once I settle into my new environment, I plan on returning to continue pursuing my bachelor’s degree!”

My Master of Arts in Educational Leadership opened many doors enabling me to secure the position I have now as principal of CPC High Point Schools.”

After 30 years of a successful career as a paraprofessional in my local school district, I remained hungry for more. I wanted personal fulfillment and more ways in which I could make a greater impact in my local community doing what I loved most - working with children. Finishing my bachelor’s in liberal studies at TESU gave me the essential key that opened doors to my future success as a guest teacher. TESU was my springboard into a vital profession that I had been dreaming about for years. TESU lengthened my reach, so now I can teach!”

My zeal and passion for self-growth and strong dedication to protecting the United States energized me to start my master’s degree in Homeland Security at TESU. I accepted an offer as an officer with the Department of Homeland Security, and I love what I do every day protecting the people and providing maximum security for this country. This is a milestone achievement for me that hasn’t been easy. I am proud of my accomplishment, and I am particularly grateful for all the support that Thomas Edison State University provided for me to accomplish this great milestone.”

In 2020, I completed my bachelor’s in homeland security, and as I didn’t want to be pinned into one job field, I decided to pursue my master’s and graduated again in 2023. I supervise 30 people and am an assistant professor at a community college. TESU was a great experience for me, and I have used many of its services including career support and gave back via the Philanthropy Cord program allowing me to show my pride.”

Not too long after completing my degree, I started to pursue a new job. A couple months ago I took on a management position with one of the major airlines. That is a great step up in my career. I'm also targeting my next academic goal and may pursue another master’s this time one in industrial psychology. The journey of education and improving yourself never ends.”