As a first-year student at the College of St. Joseph, Matthew Sullivan brings a unique perspective to his classroom discussions. Take his psychology and sociology classes, for example. A veteran of combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, Sullivan, 24, received a dramatic crash course in human interaction and response.

“Combat deployments are highly stressful,” said the sergeant, who still serves in the Marine Corps Reserve. “Some people handle pressure better than others. It was also interesting to see how Iraqis and Afghans interacted with us. Some were happy we were there, but others – especially the religious extremists – wanted us gone. My deployments were like living classrooms.”

Such intense on-the-job education has enabled this Marine to fully appreciate the opportunity to pursue higher education.

“I started my classes in September and the change of pace is really nice,” Sullivan said. “In the military, especially the Marine Corps, it’s ‘go, go, go’ all the time. As a full-time student, things are much more laid back and I can truly focus on me and what I want to do with my life. And the peaceful setting of St. Joseph is perfect for that.”

Nestled on a scenic, 117-acre campus in Rutland, Vt., the College of St. Joseph is a private Catholic institution in the heart of the beautiful Green Mountains. The college offers more than 28 degree programs in arts and sciences, business, criminal justice, education, and psychology and human services.

The college also recently instituted an Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate Program – which examines the psychological, social, and educational characteristics of those with autism, pervasive developmental disorder, Rhett’s disorder, Asperger’s syndrome and childhood disintegrative disorder.

The College of St. Joseph prides itself on being one of the most affordable private Catholic colleges in New England. Tuition per semester for the 2009-2010 academic year is $8,600 for full-time undergraduate students and $6,750 for full-time graduate students.

The college participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program – a provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. This allows institutions of higher learning (degree-granting institutions) in the United States to voluntarily enter into an agreement with the Department of Veterans Affairs to fund tuition expenses exceeding the highest public in-state undergraduate tuition rate. The institution can contribute up to 50 percent of those expenses and the VA will match the same amount.

G.I. Jobs spoke with Matthew Sullivan about his experience at the College of St. Joseph and his future plans.

GIJ: What made you decide to go to school?
Sullivan: When I was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps last year, I saw the need to earn a degree. The economic climate is tough right now, and while my military experience is valuable, a degree would enhance my opportunities in the civilian work force. I also wanted to play soccer on a college level.

GIJ: Why did you choose the College of St. Joseph?
Sullivan: I actually attended a semester at St. Joseph in 2004, right out of high school, and played soccer. But I wasn’t ready for college at that time and wanted some structure in my life, so I enlisted in the Marine Corps. When I left active duty and decided to go back to school, I knew I wanted to come back. Also, my old soccer coach – who is now St. Joseph’s athletic director – encouraged me to return.

GIJ: How has your experience been?
Sullivan: Great. The school has been very accommodating. Because of my age and military experience, they put me up in very nice housing reserved for graduate students. Also, because of the credits I accrued during my first semester and military career, I’m returning as a sophomore.

GIJ: What are you studying?
Sullivan: I’m majoring in history with a minor in sociology. I want to eventually become a teacher or work as a civil servant.

GIJ: Are you using the G.I. Bill?
Sullivan: Yes, I am using the Post-9/11 GI Bill. It covers housing, books, tutors, and other miscellaneous expenses. Most importantly, it covers all of my education costs. The College of St. Joseph is also part of the Yellow Ribbon Program. Therefore, whatever expenses are not covered by my GI Bill, the school will handle. This is all a real gift to me, and I plan on taking full advantage of it.

GIJ: What was your job in the military?
Sullivan: I was a combat field radio operator, as well as a driver and dismount. During my first deployment to Ramadi, Iraq, I was a part of the Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marines. In 2007, I deployed to Afghanistan with the 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion (MSOB). I’m currently serving with a Reserve unit at Fort Devens, Mass. By the time I complete my education in 2012, I’ll have fulfilled my obligation to the Marine Corps.

GIJ: How has your military experience made you a better student?
Sullivan: I am much more responsible and grounded, and I feel I have a better outlook on what an education can do for me in today’s society. I’m also better able to handle the freedoms and responsibilities of college than when I was 18.

GIJ: Would you recommend the College of St. Joseph to other military veterans?
Sullivan: Most definitely. The academics are top of the line and the classes are small. Someone who has been out of school for awhile can truly learn, adapt, and feel welcome in the learning environment. The surrounding area is quiet, so people like me who are used to going non-stop can relax and really focus on their studies and themselves.

School Name: College of St. Joseph
Main Campus: Rutland, Vt.
Total Campuses: 1
Attendance: 500 undergraduate and graduate students
Web site: www.csj.edu
Tuition: Tuition per semester for the 2009-2010 academic year is $8,600 for full-time undergraduate students and $6,750 for full-time graduate students.