MARIETTA, OHIO (September 19, 2018)–On Tuesday morning, September 11, Washington State College of Ohio student Bill Allen was among the large crowd of people on the front lawn of the College. On this day, in this crowd, with his squared shoulders and firmly set jaw, the retired Marine blended in with the many other former military personnel who stood at attention in front of the American flag in both honor and remembrance of the tragic events of 2001. However, blending is an unusual way to describe Allen, especially in the classroom, which is why he was selected as the September Student of the Month.
After being medically retired from the US Marine Corps, the 41-year-old Parkersburg resident sought out WSCO because he was specifically interested in obtaining his Chemical Operator certification. Had he chosen to end his education there, he was confident he would have been immediately gainfully employed. “I have had several job offers as a chemical operator in this area. I chose not to take any of these offers because I want to be able to concentrate on my school goals now,” he explained. While earning his Chemical Operator certificate, he decided to expand his academic pursuits to also include a degree in Industrial Technology – Process Technician, a degree that will further add to his desirability when he graduates.
Allen’s instructors aren’t surprised at the opportunities he’s already been offered. “I have had Bill in several of my courses and have received comments from other faculty members about his high quality of work,” said Industrial Technology instructor Chris Carpenter. “He excels at whatever task he encounters. Bill is able to grasp complex concepts and help other students around him understand these concepts.”
Allen credits his success to the lessons of self-discipline and perseverance he gained as a Marine. After he completes his degree later this fall, Allen aspires to be employed by one of the local chemical plants.
For more than 45 years, Washington State College of Ohio has provided residents of the Mid-Ohio Valley the opportunity to realize dreams, to enhance skills, and to broaden understanding. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or an adult student looking to move your life in a new direction, Washington State has the classes to suit your needs. For more information about Washington State College of Ohio, visit www.wscc.edu or call 740.374.8716.
