University brings classes to soldiers in Iraq

University brings classes to soldiers in Iraq
The Associated Press
Posted : Sunday Jan 25, 2009 14:07:49 EST

BALTIMORE — The University of Maryland, University College, is the first U.S. school to offer face-to-face classes during the war in Iraq. But far more meaningful than a few college credits is the sense of normalcy the classes offer.

Staff Sgt. Bryan Julian of Indianapolis never attended college until he served in Iraq. A few months ago, he started classes, taking on textbooks and homework besides the rifles and chaos of war.

“It’s actually quite nice,” said Julian, 34. “I’m in the National Guard, I’m a police officer back home, so my definition of normal is probably different from someone else’s.”

Julian has served as a medic in Iraq for five months. He has seven months remaining on his tour, and decided to use his spare time taking sociology and criminal justice classes. He hopes the classes will help him become a detective.

“I try to stay busy over here,” he said in a recent telephone interview. “The busier you stay, the faster time goes by.”

Rest of article at: http://armytimes.com/news/2009/01/ap_wartime_classes_012509w/%2e