Former Sergeant First Class U.S. Army studies law enforcement intelligence as civilian

“There are opportunities for veteran students to meet, efficient veteran representatives, and an easy-going process for distance learning when traveling. The staff is very responsive and positive.” – Marva Tanksley, U.S. Army Veteran” — Marva Tanksley

Please share what was your rank, job, and your branch of service?

I am a former Sergeant First Class (E-7) for the United States Army and I worked as a Senior Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Analyst. In 2022, I decided to end my time in service to become a Senior Intelligence analyst as a civilian for the Department of Defense.

As a student veteran what has stood out to you as a positive experience while enrolled at FSU Panama City?

I have always dreamed of being a student at Florida State University, since 2013, but was inhibited by deployment rotations. During a deployment, I became a fan because one of my soldiers had graduated from FSU. After plenty of research, I decided to apply to the distance learning master’s degree program in Law Enforcement Intelligence and the curriculum at FSU was the best fit for my current job role. 

How do you feel FSU Panama City (staff, faculty, etc.) have demonstrated support for you as a veteran? 

FSU is a staple in my home, and I constantly have emails pertaining to veteran services. There are opportunities for veteran students to meet, efficient veteran representatives, and an easy-going process for distance learning when traveling. The staff is very responsive and positive.

What are your end goals upon completing your degree? How do you feel your degree will help you in achieving your goals? 

After completing my degree, I plan on applying to another role within the Department of Defense for a position of greater responsibility and apply to a Doctoral program that aligns with intelligence. This degree goes hand in hand for my career path as a Senior Intelligence professional and leader within the Intelligence community. The Law Enforcement Intelligence master’s degree program  provides me with a more in-depth knowledge of intelligence functions and activities. The training is thorough and rigorous, which I enjoy.

Law Enforcement Intelligence (distance learning)