Ashley Manning, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

When veterans separate or retire from the military, a lot of changes are forthcoming in terms of daily schedule and getting used to a civilian way of life again – some of which haven’t been known for over a decade or longer. I chose South College because when I met them for orientation, it felt right. I felt like I was making the right choice for my future and I felt comfortable with allowing them to guide me towards earning my degree – a goal I’ve had since childhood.

I am a Second Class Interior Communications Electrician, and I spent six years active in the United States Navy. I’ve always credited the military for saving my life and giving me the chance at an education that would forever alter my path in life in the direction I was meant to go. After graduating high school, I was stuck in a position to choose either apply for loans that I would be paying for the rest of my life, or to join the military – in which I chose the latter, and I couldn’t be more proud.

In four years, I have been able to earn my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, a degree I’ve wanted to pursue since I was a child. I am currently working for the State of TN Department of Veterans Services at the East TN State Veterans Cemetery and am currently in pursuit of a career with the Knoxville Police Department as a an Evidence Technician.

During my time at South College, I could not be more thankful and appreciative for the staff and instructors here. I feel that I have had the best advice, guidance, and structure with the care and education I have achieved here. I was always pushed to my greatest potential even when I didn’t feel it myself. I never felt like I didn’t deserve to be there and that I was right where I needed to be. I know that I was able to graduate Magna Cum Laude because of the leadership that was displayed at South College and the determination that was instilled from day one.