Education: Airmen's 'most powerful weapon'

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Benjamin Rojek
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  If knowledge is power, as the old saying goes, then the Air Force is creating some mighty warriors indeed. 

With education benefits ranging from tuition assistance to free CLEP and DANTES testing, Airmen here and across the world can change their lives through learning. 

"Education can make you a better-rounded person, a better citizen," said Kathren Rodriguez, Osan's education services officer. "You get exposed to different trains of thought ... different theories. 

"You learn more than the content of the classes," she said. 

Those classes can cost approximately $172 per semester hour or more, but the Air Force offers tuition assistance that pays up to $250 per semester hour. And if the class costs more than that cap, Airmen can tap into their Montgomery GI Bill. 

"Most undergraduate schools are under the (semester hour) cap," said Ms. Rodriguez. "Graduate schools can be just slightly above, but Airmen can use the GI Bill or pay out of pocket." 

Student Airmen say that tuition assistance and the GI Bill have helped to jump start their education. 

"I think that the Air Force offers a very solid educational benefits package," said Staff Sgt. Michael Maybin, 51st Communications Squadron. "I've really benefited from the tuition assistance program, and the GI Bill provides me a sense of relief knowing that I'll have the economic means to continue to pursue further education after the military." 

Sergeant Maybin has already completed his Community College of the Air Force degree in information systems management, and is 22 credit hours from his Bachelor's degree. He can complete this degree at literally thousands of colleges, since the tuition assistance benefit extends to any accredited college, online or traditional. 

Since the cost and choice of school cannot be used as an excuse not to get an education, some people have tried saying that they're just not college material. 

"Actually, the adult learner is a better student after being out of school for a time," said Ms. Rodriguez. "Most colleges have prep courses to help students build up their skills again, allowing the students to be more successful." 

Even though being in the Air Force can mean working different shifts, schools on base are flexible with military schedules and at Osan the classes are condensed. 

"Classes are eight weeks long and meet two to three times per week," said Ms. Rodriguez. "Also, professors here have been working with the military community for years. They are flexible with exercises and such." 

If all of that isn't evidence enough to get in school, career Airmen should remember that a CCAF degree is required to be promoted above master sergeant. 

"Most (Airmen) only need five classes to get their two-year degree," said Ms. Rodriguez. "It takes very little effort." 

For those Airmen opting to get out of the military, a degree is the key to success. 

"I'd advise all eligible members to take full advantage of the educational opportunities that the Air Force offers," said Sergeant Maybin. "Not only will it be good for you economically but it will also help you to become a valued, well-rounded member of society." 

Nelson Mandela once said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." 

Using the military's education benefits, all Airmen can be armed for success.