CCCONLINE GOES TO IRAQ
SPC Matthew Davenport used to drive past Pikes Peak Community College's Centennial Campus every day, but there's no way he could take classes there. The U.S. Army combat medic has been deployed to Iraq since September of 2006.

Matthew is a PPCC student, but he takes his courses via CCCOnline. Now in his third semester, Matthew is trying to knock out 30 hours of prerequisites for the Army's Physician Assistant Program, which awards a master's degree from the University of Nebraska.

Is there enough time to study and fight a war?

Yes, Matthew said. "Most jobs in the Army leave a lot of free time while deployed. Getting an education in war-time is a good way to stay focused on the future and stay out of trouble. Soldiers' minds start to wander when they are deprived of some of the things they had at home."

College classes are a great distraction from the boredom and stress of deployment, he said. "I wish more soldiers would take advantage of the free education that is there for the taking," Matthew said.

As a combat medic, Matthew spends his work hours accompanying a military police squad on convoys and training missions. He also helps run the aid station at the U.S. Army headquarters where he is stationed.

His advice for fellow soldiers – and others who are considering an online education – is to buy textbooks early, read them ahead of time and keep notes on your assignments. "It's easy to get sidetracked. Try to turn in the assignments as early as possible, so you can get on with your week. If you are the type who needs hands-on instruction, or loses focus easily, online learning may not be for you," Matthew said.

Born in New York State, Matthew lived most of his life in Florida, Alabama and Georgia. His wife of six years, Melissa, and their 3-year-old son, Ethan, live in Iowa near her family.
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