JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas –
For service members and civilians who wish to invest in their future, the Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph Military and Family Readiness Center offers a monthly Transition Assistance Program course that helps them select a school or institution of their choice to earn a higher education degree or certificate.
Held at the JBSA-Randolph Education Center, building 208, the free two-day class is geared to separating or retiring military members, but is open to all Department of Defense cardholders, Mike Bell, MFRC community readiness consultant, said.
Amanda Jalomo, JBSA-Randolph Education Center higher education facilitator, has taught courses since last April.
Every month, she encourages attendees to ponder what they will do once their military uniform is off for good.
"Many are faced with rediscovering who they are and what they want in life," she said.
Part of that rediscovery involves searching for the right place to pursue a higher education.
"To organize the thoughts and questions of participants, the course is broken down into four sections: personal goals, institution factors, funding and admission," Jalomo said.
Classroom discussions range from choosing a degree program to networking opportunities and scholarships.
The goal is for all participants to find three schools to apply to, either in the local area or wherever they will live post-military.
"It's important for them to have a plan A, B and C," Jalomo added. "Simply put, it's hard to go anywhere without an education."
Those with a bachelor's degree who seek advanced degrees are welcome to enroll in the higher education offering.
About half of the people who have taken the course wanted a master's degree, while a few others wanted a professional certificate, Jalomo said.
Higher education is one of three career development "tracks" at the MFRC that encourages service members "to become more marketable and prepare for a smoother transition into civilian life, which sometimes is the toughest part," Bell said.
The next course is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday.
To sign up or request more information, contact Jalomo at 652-6502 or email her at
amanda.jalomo.1@us.af.mil.