After 11 Years of Service, This Marine Has His Sights Set on a Bachelor’s Degree

After joining the Marine Corps immediately after high school, Chad Allen served for 11 years. Although he wasn’t exactly sure what profession he wanted to pursue post service, he had a clear understanding that —whatever he decided— a bachelor’s degree would be essential. Chad started on his journey to a degree by attending a small local college for a couple years, taking night classes and working full-time during the day.

A career opportunity came along to start a business with two established businessmen. Veteran Opportunity Partners LLC (VOP) was created in 2017 as a strategic partner to JDog Junk Removal and Hauling (JDog), the nation’s leading U.S. Military Franchise Brand. The two companies had the shared objective of providing robust career opportunities to Military Veterans and their families. “VOP allowed me to hone my construction industry specific hard skills while at the same time developing soft skills required to successfully lead a team in the civilian business world – hiring, onboarding, mentoring, compensation strategies, customer relations, and more.”

The experience also allowed him to immerse himself in the veteran community in Philadelphia. Through VOP, Chad had the opportunity to visit many universities, get to know how they work, and create relationships with campus staff. Chad says, “I learned the value of a reputable school. I would have never dreamed that attending Villanova was an option for me and I’m proud to be a Villanova student in the College of Professional Studies. There is a level of prestige that comes with obtaining a degree from Villanova that is analogous to serving in the United States Marine Corps.”

Chad is already excited to for what the next chapter may hold, saying “I’m confident that my experience in the Marines coupled with a degree from Villanova will present numerous career opportunities. I feel like I’m part of a community, I have excellent support from the faculty and staff, and I know I’m receiving a first class education from a top university. It doesn’t get any better than that.”

To learn more about Villanova’s degree, certificate and professional education programs, please visit our veterans webpage and explore program offerings.

Pursue the next you at Villanova’s College of Professional Studies.