National Park College (NPC) Veterans Services featured veteran student Jullian Merritt
this month for his service to his country and outstanding academic performance.
Merritt was named student of the month for October. He is a Marine Technology student
with a 4.0 GPA and is on track to graduate in May. He is originally from Graham, WA
where he graduated from Bethel High School in 2011. He played football during high
school and was an all-state defensive end. Because of his outstanding play, he received
scholarships to play Division One football. He credited his hard work for these achievements.
After suffering an injury, Merritt lost his scholarship to play college football and
decided to look for a new challenge in the United States Army. He served in the Army
as an infantry radio telephone operator, machine-gunner, and team leader from May
2012 to October 2015. “I took a job that was both physically and mentally demanding
to ensure I would continue to prove to myself what I was capable of,” said Merritt.
He was stationed in Oahu, Hawaii, and he spent time training in Thailand, Louisiana,
and Death Valley, California as well.
Merritt described his typical day in the Army. “It started with the first formation
at 6 a.m. Physical training then went on until 8:30 a.m. This was followed by breakfast
and a second formation. Then, various types of training and maintenance were done
until 6 p.m.”
When asked about a memorable moment during his time in the Army Merritt said, “Riding
in Blackhawk helicopters over the mountains of Hawaii. A helicopter can change elevations
without moving forward. So, cruising through the hills and valleys looks like you
will run straight into the mountains. However, the lift takes you up and over. It
was just an overall great experience, flying around beautiful Hawaii with some of
my best friends in the world. I got to forget about the Army for a minute and just
enjoy an amazing ride.”
Merritt moved to Kirby, AR in September 2022 and noticed a need for a mobile marine
mechanic on Lake Greeson. He said he chose the NPC Marine Technology Program because
it is the best marine repair program in the country. “As a hands-on learner, Mr. Hunter
provides a great curriculum to ensure every student is getting their hands dirty.
To me, I learn best in this manner. Dino Hunter is the best teacher around.”
National Park College Veteran Services Coordinator, Kenita McKenzie said, “Jullian
is an exceptional individual who consistently shows his readiness to seek help when
required. Every interaction with him is distinguished by his radiant smile, embodying
his optimistic and welcoming disposition. Remarkably, Jullian goes the extra mile
by extending his support to fellow veterans, illustrating his dedication to aiding
others in the veteran community.”
Merritt stated, “NPC has been fantastic. It's been very easy to balance a personal
life with school. Miss McKenzie has been on top of everything. Earlier in the year,
Veteran Affairs (VA) was struggling to get my paperwork corrected. Miss McKenzie was
able to sit down with me and the VA and get everything squared away in a week.”
“As the Veteran Service Coordinator at National Park College, I am honored to play
a pivotal role in helping veterans pursue their educational dreams. Witnessing individuals
who have bravely served our country succeed in their post-service pursuits fills me
with immense pride and satisfaction. The dedication and sacrifice of our veterans
deserve to be met with unwavering support, and it's truly heartening to be part of
an institution that recognizes and values their contributions. By facilitating their
educational journeys, I am not only assisting veterans in achieving their goals but
also empowering them to build brighter futures. It's a privilege to see these heroes
transition into successful, fulfilling civilian lives, and I'm committed to continuing
this vital mission,” said McKenzie.
Merritt plans to graduate from NPC’s Marine Technology program and start a mobile
marine business on Lake Greeson. He added, “I hope to eventually open my own marine
repair shop on Lake Greeson and turn my homestead into a profitable venture. I really
want to be a part of the community. I want to be the go-to guy on Lake Greeson.”
