Dr. Jared Perry earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration with a specialization in Homeland Security: Leadership and Policy in June 2017. Dr. Perry began his military career in 1999 in the United States Marine Corps serving in the US Navy Ceremonial Guard, VF-32 and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2008, he was commissioned as a 2ndLt, has attended various schools and was deployed twice to Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom and once to South America for Operation Continuing Promise. He served as a Platoon Commander and Company Commander, as well as the 2nd Marine Air Wing Deputy Chief Information Officer at Camp Leatherneck. He currently provides communications planning for US Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. His proudest military moment was serving as part of the Presidential Escort during the 2000 Inauguration of George W. Bush.
Read on to learn more about Dr. Perry’s reasons for choosing NCU, the best lessons he learned as an online student, the importance of NCU’s flexibility, and how his family supported him during his doctoral journey.
1. Why did you decide to go back to school; what drew you to NCU?
I wanted to continue my education to hopefully start a second career in teaching after I retire from the military. I chose NCU because it offered what I was looking for through their Homeland Security program.
2. What is the best lesson you learned as an online student at NCU?
The best lesson that I have learned is time management and prioritizing. It is easy to put assignments off when you have all week to complete them. It is important to understand that it is up to you to complete your assignments. No one is going to push you to do it. I think that is one important lesson as an adult learner. Also, prioritizing between work, school, and home life is extremely important.
3. How has the flexibility of NCU's programs helped you balance family life, work, and school?
The flexibility of NCU’s programs was one of the reasons that I stuck with my program. I had to deploy twice during my classes and the ability to take a leave of absence was great. It allowed me to not have to worry about trying to complete courses when I knew my internet connectivity would be lacking.
4. How did your family or friends support you during your educational journey? Have you inspired any of them to pursue a higher degree?
My family has been very supportive during this journey. My wife and daughter sacrificed a lot of family time but they seemed to understand. There were times I was ready to hang it up and my wife and friends would push me through encouragement to hang in there. If it wasn’t for that support, I probably would not have finished. I also believe that support from fellow students plays a vital role. I did not really consider that until I was almost finished. I still keep in touch with a few of my former classmates, several who have graduated recently.
5. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, which would you pick and why?
The Ugly American by Eugene Burdick and William Lederer. While this book is considered fiction, there is a lot to learn from not just a political standpoint, but in how to treat people in general. The book shows different situations from a diplomatic standpoint that were major failures. I think taking lessons learned from this book and applying to real world situations would help diplomats or career foreign service personnel succeed as they work overseas.
During the month of November, Northcentral University is honoring alumni who have served or are currently serving in the Armed Forces. As a graduate of NCU and a military veteran, we applaud our military students for achieving an educational milestone and appreciate their support and service to our country.
Non-Endorsement Notice: Northcentral University is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the Department of Defense (DoD) or any military branch or service. The presence of any military rank, uniform, or logo is not intended to indicate or imply affiliation with, or sponsorship or endorsement by, any military branch or service and is solely included for the purpose of honoring NCU alumni who have served or are serving in the Armed Forces.