HM1 Marven Ayson started attending TCC in the fall of 2006 taking just two general education classes his first semester. This fall Ayson will start the MCEP program through Norfolk State University to become a Registered Nurse.
Ayson first found out about TCC when he was assigned to his new command in 2006 at Portsmouth Naval Medical Center. He says it has always been his routine when assigned to a new command to visit the Navy College Office. Upon doing so, he met TCC Base Representative, Ms. Cassandra Harris. Ayson describes Ms. Harris as "welcoming, friendly and informative." he notes that Harris "gave me the freedom to choose among the colleges offered on base." But Ayson decided that TCC was where he needed to be and so he began pursuing an Associate of Science degree with the intent to transfer to a four year university.


How was your experience with your TCC base rep? What were the advantages of seeing a base rep versus an on-campus counselor?
 Ms. Harris helped me attain my educational goals. Her willingness to
help led me to where I am now. I even encourage my co-worker to see her
on a daily basis to pursue their academic goals.
I used the TCC base rep because it was convenient. Ms. Harris' office is
nearby which made it easier to drop in if I have questions. She met
all my needs while attending TCC. Ms. Harris knew our work routines and
how hard it is for us to find time to go to college. A TCC representative
on base is really a big help for all military members pursuing a college education.

Did you take classes on the base? If so, how did they compare to
classes at the campus?
 I took my first course on base. It was more convenient because it was
right there in the hospital. Classes at the campus required more time to get to. 

Were you satisfied with your program at TCC? How did your program work with and help you pursue your military career and education simultaneously? 
 I was very satisfied with my program. It didn't only fulfill the pre-requisite but it went beyond the required subjects. The nicest thing about studying at TCC was all course credits were transferable to different colleges - NSU for example. It even gave me additional points toward my Navy Advancement test, which helped me obtain my promotion to the next
rank. On top of that, a few weeks later, I received a phone call from my
chief that I got accepted into an Officer Program (MECP).

What is your anticipated completion date at NSU? And what will you do when you have completed the program?
 My scheduled completion date at NSU is in May 2014. After completion of my Nursing degree, the Navy will send me to the Officer Candidate School as an Ensign-Enlisted. I will then continue my service as Officer in the Navy helping active duty members and their families in their medical
needs.

What advice would you give other students who are pursuing a
military career and education at the same time?
 My advice to active military members is to take advantage and utilize
all the privileges available to them. It is hard to juggle full time
work and academic commitment at the same time but it's not impossible.
With careful time management and a bit of research, everyone can achieve his or her goals. It will take a little patience and motivation but it
will give you a big advantage.