The Faces of CSU
Alan Jones
Killeen, Texas
...he's earning his degree, even while deployed overseas.
Alan Jones is currently on his third tour in Iraq and is working towards a bachelor's degree in fire science from Columbia Southern University (CSU) at the same time. He has served in the U.S. Army for the past seven years and holds the title of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Non-Commissioned Officer. Jones picked a degree in fire science to gain the knowledge and skills he will need to become a firefighter after his service with the military.
"Having a degree on your resumé gives employers a reason to let you prove yourself," said Jones."If you do get the job, you're still the new guy; but you're the new guy with a degree backing you up."
Through his deployments to Iraq, Jones has worked for the military police, been on convoy escort duty and is now working on combat patrols. During his current deployment, he has received the opportunity to get to know members of the Iraqi police, army, and locals.
"People are not that different from each other," Jones said. "We all want our children to have the opportunity to follow their dreams, we all want freedom, and we all want to lie down in our own bed each night and feel safe."
Since beginning his education with CSU, more doors have opened for Jones. In fact, his college credits have already earned him a promotion to staff sergeant.
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