By Vaughn College   |   November 10, 2017

Veterans Day is observed every year on November 11 to honor and thank our veterans for their service and fearless bravery to protect our country and its citizens.

RECOGNIZING ONE OF ITS OWN

This month, Vaughn College recognizes Nicholas Jordan, a retired United States Marine Corps sergeant and sophomore at Vaughn, who is earning his degree in aviation maintenance management.

In 2008 Jordan enlisted in the United States Marine Corps to serve his country and enrich his life. He explains how, while still a high school student, the experience of the events that took place on September 11, 2001, motivated him to join the military and be a part of something bigger than himself.

“I was deeply affected by the attack on our country on 9-11,” Jordan said. “I knew I wanted to do my part to provide security for the American people.” Jordan was deployed twice during his five years of active duty. In 2009 he was deployed to Afghanistan and in 2011 on the U.S.S. Enterprise. During that time, he worked as a hydraulics mechanic and says he learned the discipline and skills that have taken him to where he is today.

LIFE AT VAUGHN

In 2015 Jordan enrolled at Vaughn to further his career. At 30 years old, he said he’s part of the “older scene” on campus and quickly realized there were other students his age who were also vets. He discovered the Veterans Organization at Vaughn, and is currently the president. “Veterans are a unique breed,” Jordan explained. “It was important for me to have a ‘home base’ on campus where my fellow vets can meet. We motivate each other to do well. It’s our comfort zone,” said Jordan.

The aviation maintenance management program at Vaughn has set Jordan on a clear path to a successful future. He said the program is not easy, but his military disciplines keep him focused and on track. “The faculty is right there to help when you need them. It’s great to know there’s a support system where everyone wants to see you succeed. Vaughn does that for me.”

Jordan plans to graduate in 2019 with his bachelor’s degree. He states that going to college is not only an investment in himself, but an investment in America. “Military personnel are trained with discipline. It’s all about putting good leadership where it matters.”

When asked about Veterans Day, it didn’t take long for Jordan to respond. “I have pride in my country. The military turned my life around and I feel blessed knowing I served my country as a United States Marine.”

Don’t miss the change to learn more about Vaughn’s engineering, technology, management and aviation programs at our Open House on Saturday, November 11 and 18. Space is limited – reserve your spot today!