Veterans Transition from Military to Ivy League Engineering Online

NewsVeterans Transition from Military to Ivy League Engineering Online

In the realm of advanced education, two military veterans, John Murphy and Felix Hong, have embarked on a significant journey, transitioning from their distinguished military careers to pursuing an online Master of Engineering in Computer Engineering (MEng) through Dartmouth College. Their stories serve as an inspiring testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of knowledge. This article delves into their experiences, showcasing how both individuals are leveraging the skills acquired during their military service to excel in the demanding fields of hardware and software engineering.

### John Murphy: Navigating Between Software and Hardware

John Murphy, a former Navy serviceman who spent five years in active duty, including a deployment to Iraq, has made a remarkable transition into civilian life. His post-military career has been marked by a series of impressive accomplishments, including leading large-scale construction projects in the aerospace and defense sectors and founding two small businesses centered on industrial IoT (Internet of Things) solutions. Despite these achievements and balancing his professional life with his responsibilities as a father of three, John felt a strong desire for further personal and academic growth.

John expressed a keen interest in obtaining more formal education, specifically in an area that bridges the gap between software and hardware, which is integral to the industrial IoT sector he is passionate about. When he received information about Dartmouth’s online MEng program from Coursera, it seemed like a perfect opportunity. With his Post-9/11 GI Bill set to expire in 2029, John recognized this as an ideal moment to pursue a master’s degree. He was particularly drawn to Dartmouth’s program for its flexibility, rigorous curriculum, and balanced focus on both software and hardware engineering.

For John, the online format of the program was essential. As a working father, the flexibility it offered was invaluable. He described Dartmouth’s program as small, meticulously designed, and well-curated, perfectly suiting his educational needs. One of the standout aspects for John has been the hands-on experience provided by the program, especially through the Embedded Systems course. This course involved students receiving hardware kits at home to debug real systems, a practical experience that resonated deeply with John’s daily work.

Balancing work, family, and academic pursuits is undoubtedly challenging, but John attributes his ability to manage intense pressure to his military background. The program’s curriculum is demanding, with each 10-week term covering a semester’s worth of material. However, John is committed not just to completing the program but excelling in it. Collaboration plays a crucial role in his success, with the program’s Slack community fostering a sense of camaraderie and support. John appreciates the ongoing connections he has maintained with his team from the first course, despite being spread across the globe.

### Felix Hong: From Military IT to Engineering the Future

Felix Hong, hailing from Hawaii, discovered his passion for computers early in life, leading him to pursue a degree in computer engineering at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. After graduating in 2020, Felix sought a career that aligned with his academic background. His military experience, which included roles in IT support, computer networking, and satellite communications, further fueled his interest in how computers communicate globally. These roles required him to solve problems in remote locations with limited resources, teaching him to adapt and collaborate with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.

Felix’s journey to Dartmouth’s online program began when his wife discovered it on LinkedIn and encouraged him to apply. The program’s asynchronous format and flexibility fit perfectly with his schedule as a contractor working in classified environments. Dartmouth’s reputation as an Ivy League institution and its historical significance as the birthplace of artificial intelligence (AI) made the decision even more compelling for Felix.

Similar to John, Felix found the Embedded Systems course particularly rewarding. Challenges arose in courses like Natural Language Processing (NLP), which required him to distill abstract concepts into tangible outcomes. Felix likens this process to chemistry, explaining that understanding the components comes from seeing them work together in practice.

Looking to the future, Felix is optimistic about the potential of engineering fields such as quantum computing and AI-driven cybersecurity. He is particularly interested in addressing the challenges of quantum-resistant encryption, recognizing that current algorithms are not equipped for the era of quantum computing. Felix aspires to contribute to the development of devices that push the boundaries of security and communication.

The interactive elements of Dartmouth’s program have left a positive impression on Felix, especially the active participation of professors on Slack. This platform allows for immediate updates and facilitates questions about coursework, enhancing the learning experience. Despite being deployed in Guam, Felix credits his military background with instilling the discipline and structure necessary for success. The organized chaos of military life, with its predictable routines, contrasts with the more abstract nature of civilian life. However, Felix appreciates the structure provided by higher education and the opportunities that a Dartmouth degree promises.

### Shared Values, Distinct Journeys

For both John and Felix, Dartmouth’s online MEng program offers more than just technical knowledge; it provides a community of like-minded peers and a chance to grow beyond their military experiences. Whether through John’s application of industrial IoT solutions or Felix’s exploration of quantum computing challenges, both veterans embody the resilience, adaptability, and curiosity required to excel in engineering and beyond. As they continue their educational journeys, they are not only enriching their own lives but also paving the way for future innovations in their respective fields.

In conclusion, John Murphy and Felix Hong’s stories highlight the transformative potential of education and the enduring value of the skills acquired through military service. Their experiences underscore the importance of lifelong learning and the impact that dedicated individuals can have on the ever-evolving landscape of technology and engineering. As they work towards their graduation, we extend our gratitude for their service and wish them continued success in their endeavors.
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Neil S
Neil S
Neil is a highly qualified Technical Writer with an M.Sc(IT) degree and an impressive range of IT and Support certifications including MCSE, CCNA, ACA(Adobe Certified Associates), and PG Dip (IT). With over 10 years of hands-on experience as an IT support engineer across Windows, Mac, iOS, and Linux Server platforms, Neil possesses the expertise to create comprehensive and user-friendly documentation that simplifies complex technical concepts for a wide audience.
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