Lifelong Learning, and Work at the World’s Edge

A career shift advances knowledge

Polasky's time in the military took him to numerous locations, but he first spent untold hours staring at fences. Initially joining the Air Force as part of its security regiment, watch duty was a big part of the job. Polasky soon realized it wasn't what he wanted to do, so he decided to cross-train in meteorology.

Polasky pointed out that he completed an apprenticeship to learn a new field. It's a tale that aligns closely with UMGC's focus on adult education, on-the-job learning, and service.

"You start out doing basic forecasting. You grow a little, then go to the next skill level," he said.

Over the years that followed, throughout his meteorological career in the Air Force, Polasky deployed to war zones among other global locations. During that time, he forecasted for U.S. Central Command, U.S. Africa Command, and special operations.

Taking the leap, and finding community

It was along this road that Polasky realized he wanted to get a degree.

"As an older guy, I was a bit scared of trying something new," Polasky said. "UMGC had positive reviews and the ability for classroom education on base."

Teachers with deep commitment helped guide him while offering community.

"You never lose contact," Polasky said. "Even if it's only one class with a teacher, you stay in touch after."

He spoke of a particular fondness for Joanna Grant, PhD. An overseas collegiate professor with UMGC since 2010, Grant teaches writing, mythology, and speech to military learners across Asia and the Middle East.

"She'd been educating the troops for years on-site in dangerous places," he said. "You could tell it was her passion and she wanted to be an awesome teacher. That pushed us to do our best."