James T. Finn
I want to teach at a private school at the secondary level. A Master of Arts in Military History degree is a catalyst for doing so. As the birthplace of ROTC, I could think of no better place to matriculate.
Q: “Tell us about yourself.”
A: “I am 58 years old, and a father of seven. I am a veteran and was commissioned from Army ROTC at Rutgers in 1988. I have worked in the insurance business for decades. I have always had an interest in military history. When I retire, I want to teach at a private school at the secondary level. A Master of Arts in Military History degree is a catalyst for doing so. I am in the health insurance brokerage business and have been for thirty years.”
Q: “Why did you choose Norwich?”
A: “I learned about Norwich through online research when I was considering earning my master’s in military history in 2016. As the birthplace of ROTC, I could think of no better place to matriculate.”
Q: “Did you have any uncertainties with choosing an online program?”
A: “Convenience was the number one reason. I couldn't move to VT, so I moved Norwich closer to me, online!”
Q: “Prior to beginning your courses, what were some of your expectations for an online degree program?”
A: “I expected some sterility in the learning environment but was surprised in earlier seminars how robust the student/teacher conversations were on the posting platforms. I also did not expect such excellent advisors. All of them were engaged.”
Q: “What is one piece of advice you would give to future students enrolling in one of Norwich's online programs?”
A: “Expect more than an ‘online course.’ Expect full immersion in a rigorous program with excellent support, curricula, and faculty.”
Q: “What has been your biggest personal or professional success since starting and/or completing your coursework and degree?”
A: “Working with an advisor who happens to be the Professor of Military History at the US Army Command and General Staff College was an unexpected way to close out my academic career in my capstone seminar. He was tough, but fair. His feedback helped me improve my essay tremendously.”
Q: “What aspects of your Norwich experience will you carry most strongly with you?”
A: “It is the sense of community, even though it has been remote.”
