As the Shenandoah Valley turns golden with autumn, The Valley Today host Janet Michael, joins Laurel Ridge Community College's Director of PR and Special Events, Brandy Hawkins Boies, and Jeff Sinclair, an Army veteran whose educational journey has inspired many. Their conversation—timed perfectly for Veterans Week—offers a heartfelt look at how one man's post-military path leads from uncertainty to academic success and a future in pharmacy.

From Service to Self-Discovery

After leaving the Army, Jeff Sinclair admits he needed time to decompress. "The military was all I ever thought about," he shares. With no clear direction, he decides to enroll at Laurel Ridge Community College, initially majoring in cybersecurity because it seemed practical. But reality hit when he realizes his younger classmates had grown up immersed in technology while he struggled to catch up.

"I was in deep water," he says. "Math made more sense—it was logical." That realization led him to switch majors, earning an Associate of Science with a specialization in engineering. He wanted a foundation that could "translate into a career" and make the best use of his military benefits.

Finding Mentorship and Meaning

Jeff credits Dr. Sam Dillender, his chemistry professor at Laurel Ridge, for sparking his passion for science. "He broke down complex material in a way that made it stick," Jeff recalls. "He did a reverse classroom—so we came in with questions ready. It changed everything."

That mentorship shaped Jeff's path. After completing his associate degree, he transferred to Shenandoah University, earning a bachelor's degree in chemistry with a minor in biology, and he is now pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy at Shenandoah's Bernard J. Dunn School of Pharmacy.

The Power of Support: Veterans Services at Laurel Ridge

Transitioning from the military to civilian life can be daunting. For Jeff, that transition was eased by Sharon Painter, the college's veterans coordinator. "She was phenomenal—one-stop shopping," he says. "She handled everything from class schedules to GI Bill benefits. I thought every school would be like that!"

Brandy notes that the Veteran Services Center, led by Painter and Jeanmarie Corrado, plays a vital role for students like Jeff. "They're there to support veterans and their families," she explains. "College can be intimidating, and the paperwork for benefits can be overwhelming. Having experts who can guide you through it is essential."

Learning Flexibility in a Changing World

Jeff's college career straddled the pandemic, forcing him into online learning—a challenge that turned into an advantage. "COVID prepared me for distance education," he says. "Later, when I was at the University of North Dakota, I was able to attend virtually, review recorded lectures, and manage my studies independently. Laurel Ridge gave me that foundation."

Brandy adds that such flexibility is now a hallmark of the community college. "Students can start at Laurel Ridge and transfer anywhere," she says. "Our agreements with universities across Virginia make education accessible without leaving the Valley."

"Future Jeff's Problem": Taking Life One Step at a Time

When asked where he hopes to be in a few years, Jeff smiles. "That's future Jeff's problem," he laughs. Still, he envisions working as a pharmacist—perhaps near his children in Boise, Idaho. His easy humor and humility reflect a grounded perspective: "One step at a time," he says. "Each degree led to the next."

His story underscores the value of community colleges as launchpads for veterans. "Starting at Laurel Ridge was less intimidating," he explains. "Professors were personable, approachable, and patient. It took the stress out of learning."

Advice for Fellow Veterans

For veterans considering higher education, Jeff's message is simple: "Do it."

He acknowledges that going back to school in his late 30s was intimidating at first. "But you take it one bite at a time—like eating an elephant," he says. "Start small. An associate degree gives you something to show for your work and the motivation to keep going."

Brandy agrees. "You don't have to have it all figured out," she says. "Just take that first step. We'll help you chart your path."

Honoring Veterans at Laurel Ridge

During Veterans Appreciation Week, Laurel Ridge celebrates service members through thank-you card stations, memorabilia displays, a luncheon, and even a military-themed trivia game. These events help connect veterans to the campus community, easing that "first day of school" anxiety.

"Events like these make walking in the door easier," Jeff reflects. "You meet people who've been through it and can share what they learned."

From Cybersecurity to Chemistry: The Full Circle

Jeff's winding academic journey—from cybersecurity to engineering to chemistry and finally pharmacy—demonstrates that success rarely follows a straight line. As Brandy sums up: "You're the perfect example of taking it one step at a time. You didn't know where you'd end up—but you kept moving forward."

Jeff's humility shines through at the end of the interview. "I just hope I don't let anybody down," he said with a grin.

Janet closes with a hopeful smile: "I can't wait to walk into a pharmacy one day and say, 'Hey—I know you!'"

Sidebar: Resources for Veterans
Laurel Ridge Community College Veteran Services
🌐 laurelridge.edu/veterans