Learner Stories: Larry Talley

Petty Officer First Class, U.S. Navy

Petty Officer First Class Larry Talley will retire from military service and enter the civilian workforce after 20 years of active duty in the U.S. Navy. Talley is preparing for this transition by earning a bachelor's degree from Capella University.

"I'm letting prospective employers know that when I retire, I'll have completed my bachelor's degree and will have started earning my master's degree in business," Talley said. "Their interest level changes when they hear this. They start to talk about positions with more responsibilities, more opportunities, and larger salaries."

Talley entered the Navy as a seaman recruit and soon moved into intelligence work. As an intelligence analyst, his specialties include information technology, research, and information brokerage. Network technology was a logical choice for his bachelor's degree specialization. "It only makes sense to continue doing something I enjoy," Talley said. "Working in network administration will build upon my naval experience and give me the chance to play a leadership role."

Talley juggles his demanding career as an intelligence analyst with life as a single parent and participation on the U.S. Navy Running Team. When he decided to pursue his degree, he knew the Navy would support whatever program he chose. "I have yet to meet a Navy leader who does not encourage subordinates to pursue their educational goals," he said.

Although Talley is pursuing a bachelor's degree for civilian opportunities, his non-commissioned peers can move ahead in their naval careers through higher education, too. Beginning in 2006, the Navy will require advanced education for various positions within the enlisted ranks.

Talley believes that any perceived barriers to naval personnel earning an advanced degree can be overcome at Capella University. "Wherever you are stationed, and regardless of the other commitments in your life, a flexible solution like Capella allows you to advance your education,"he said.