Marines

Admissions counselors visit Lejeune, speak to prospective students

9 Oct 2014 | Cpl. Jackeline M. Perez Rivera Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

An admissions counselor from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill visited Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune to assist prospective students during the first in a series of higher education information sessions at the base education center, Friday.

This visit was the first in a series scheduled to continue with a visit from the University of Virginia representatives Oct. 17 and from Georgetown University’s School of Liberal Studies Oct. 24.

"This event gives service members a broader view of what’s out there," said Cpl. Brice Thomas an embark chief with 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. "I learned about the opportunities the university can provide."

The event was hosted by the Leadership Scholar Program, a partnership between the Marine Corps and hundreds of universities which helps qualified Marines use their military experience for a fast track to college admissions.

Thomas, a Menifee, California native, attended the event to learn what local schools, like the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, could offer him.

Service members transitioning out of the military and seeking higher education should take the time to look at many schools and opportunities available to them, he added.

"There are options," said Thomas. "Don’t go to the first thing you see. Keep your eyes open."

Melody Levy, assistant director of admissions at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, attended the event to shine a light on the college admissions process.

"We want to help people understand what we do and how we do it, how we make decisions," said Levy, a native of Chapel Hill.

From how the application process varies for veterans to how it changes between first-year applicants and transfer students, Levy looked to leave prospective students with a clear understanding of admissions.

Levy also spoke of support systems available on campuses which can help students with veteran-related issues, financial aid concerns or other situations.

All prospective students should have every opportunity to receive a higher education and succeed, Levy added.

"I think this event is very beneficial," said Thomas. "We have Marines who need to get information they need for the next step in their lives."

For more information about upcoming sessions, call 450-9081.

For more information about the Leadership Scholar Program, visit www.leadershipscholarprogram.com.