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Higher Education Builds America: Leverage Your Learning for SuccessBy Michele Spires, Assistant Vice President, National Service and Defense Solutions, American Council on Education As a veteran, your service has already strengthened our nation, and your pursuit of higher education is only amplifying that impact. By earning a college degree, certificate, or license, you are not just advancing your own aspirations; you are contributing to America’s innovation, security, and resilience. The leadership and discipline you’ve honed during your military career are assets that can propel you toward success while enriching our country’s workforce and communities. Through tools like Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), you can transform the skills and knowledge gained during your service into academic progress. CPL ensures that your experiences are recognized, saving you valuable time and resources as you transition into a new chapter--one where you continue to lead and inspire. Higher Education: A Pillar of National Strength America’s strength lies in its people, and education is the foundation of that strength. Higher education empowers individuals to drive economic growth, enhance national security, and uphold the values of democracy. Veterans embody these ideals through their commitment to lifelong learning and leadership. By pursuing higher education, you not only achieve your personal goals but also serve as a beacon of excellence for others. Your pursuit demonstrates the transformative power of education and underscores the vital role veterans play in shaping a brighter, more resilient future for our nation. Why is Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) Important to You? CPL—also referred to as Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) or Recognition of Learning (RoL)—is a tool that allows you to earn college credit for the knowledge and skills you already have. It’s all about recognizing the value of your experiences and turning them into tangible educational progress. Here’s how CPL can work for you:
This is your opportunity to build on what you already know and position yourself for success in the next phase of your journey. Taking the Next Steps 1. Define Your Goals: Embarking on your educational journey is an exciting step, but it’s also a process with many moving parts. Defining your goals is like setting a compass—it provides direction, but it’s okay if the path isn’t perfectly clear right now. Are you aiming to transition to a new career, earn a promotion, or take on a leadership role? Maybe you’re exploring different options to see what fits best. Remember, this is your journey, and it’s perfectly fine to take it one step at a time. Think of your goals as steppingstones. Short-term goals, like completing a certification or prerequisite course, can lead to long-term achievements, such as earning a degree or advancing in your career. Each milestone builds on the last, and every step forward is progress.
Remember, your journey is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you’re taking your first step or your hundredth, every move you make brings you closer to realizing your potential. Take your time, explore your options, and trust the process—you’ve got this! 2. Evaluate Your Military Training and Broader Learning Portfolio: Your military service has given you valuable experience, but your learning doesn’t stop there. Take a close look at everything you’ve accomplished to ensure you’re getting the credit you deserve.
Take the time to audit your transcripts and records for accuracy. Use tools like ACE Military Guide and National Guide to identify credit recommendations for your training and workplace learning. This step ensures you’re not taking redundant courses, saving you time and money while aligning your experiences with your educational goals. 3. Learn About Your Support Network: You’re not alone on this journey. Starting college or pursuing a credential might feel intimidating, but you’ve already faced challenges and proven your resilience. Surround yourself with support to stay motivated and informed.
By taking the time to learn about your support network and the right institutions, you’ll be better equipped to approach your educational journey with confidence and purpose. Why Higher Education Matters to You—and the Nation By pursuing education, you’re doing more than investing in your future, you’re playing a pivotal role in strengthening America. Veterans like you bring leadership, discipline, and unique perspectives to the classroom and beyond, enriching our nation’s workforce and communities. Your commitment to education supports:
You’ve already demonstrated your dedication to service—your pursuit of higher education continues that legacy by contributing to the strength, security, and ideals of our nation.
Inspire, Build, and Lead Your journey continues with every step you take. By embracing higher education and leveraging Credit for Prior Learning, you not only achieve personal success but also contribute to the strength and resilience of the nation. As John F. Kennedy once said: “Let us think of education as the means of developing our greatest abilities, because in each of us there is a private hope and dream which fulfilled can be translated into benefit for everyone and greater strength for our nation.” You’ve already demonstrated what it means to serve with dedication. Now it’s time to show the world what you can achieve in the next chapter of your life. You’ve got this!
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