Although he grew up in Canada and Vermont, new student James Day is no stranger to the Midwest.
Enrolling as a criminology and criminal justice major last month, Day, 25, has returned to the same state where he completed four years of service in the U.S. Army, this time with plans to become a park ranger.
He’s one of 429 veterans studying at UMSL this semester – about 17 percent more than last fall – and he’s making the most of his G.I. Bill to pursue a career that lines up with his love of the outdoors and staying active at work.
“I enjoy working with my hands and don’t want to be sitting, staring at a screen,” said Day, who gained experience in plumbing and heating while stationed at Fort Leonard Wood. He headed back to civilian life in Vermont two years ago, but connections in Missouri, his growing interest in park and resource management, and the strong reputation of UMSL’s nationally ranked CCJ program drew him back.
“I’ve never been to a large college before, but it seems like UMSL professors are really accessible,” said Day, adding that he’s already been amazed by the range of useful resources available to students, from the Writing Center to test preparation to the Veterans Center.
Along with courses in CCJ, biology, communication and music history this fall, Day is also taking a Veteran Transition class with several fellow veterans. Taught by retired Army Lt. Col. James Craig, associate teaching professor and chair of the Department of Military and Veterans Studies, the group covers some of the same topics that might come up in a college-transition class composed of mostly 18-year-olds. But Craig’s section tailors the curriculum to its unique audience.
Reviewed 2014-09-22