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    Photo Johnny Santiago

    November 18, 2015

    Returning to the Classroom - On the Heights

    Johnny Santiago has more that 25 years of experience as a computer hardware installation engineer. He is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. He is also a Dolphin. Santiago earned his bachelor's degree from the Heights in 2014 and is currently pursuing his master's degree. Here he shares what brought him back to the classroom, and to Le Moyne in particular.

    What led you to Le Moyne?

    "After spending 25 years as a computer hardware installation engineer, I decided to return to school in 2007 at the age of 47. I earned an associate degree in computer information systems in 2012. I then transferred to Le Moyne, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in management and leadership and information systems. I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in information systems from Le Moyne."

    "I am a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. During my time in the Marines, I attended the Non-Commission Officer School in Quantico Va., was meritoriously prompted twice, and received the Meritorious Unit Citation, and the Good Conduct Medal before being honorably discharged in 1986."

    "I spent the bulk of my career, 21 years, as a computer system field engineer at Reynolds and Reynolds, where I was promoted several times and rose to the title of computer system hardware field installation engineer. Prior to my time at Reynolds and Reynolds, I was employed by the Harris Corp., serving in the Pentagon and other high level areas for four years as a computer system field/ installation engineer."

    Why did you decide to pursue your Master of Science in information systems at Le Moyne College after earning your undergraduate degree here as well?

    “I decided to pursue a master’s degree in information systems at Le Moyne because I have become very comfortable with the school and the information systems curriculum. I have enjoyed my time here at the College and I have been able to help a lot of younger students during my time here.”

    What was most appealing to you about the Master of Science in information systems program in the Madden School?

    “The most appealing thing to me about the program is undoubtedly the professors who have given me respect for my technical knowledge and allowed me to learn new things from them.”

    You worked full time for some years before pursuing your Master of Science in Information Systems here. How do you think this program is preparing you for future professional challenges?

    “I believe that the program has prepared me to be employed at a high level, for instance as the vice president in any organization in a role that would allow me to use my wide range of knowledge and experience in information technology."

    What advice would you share with prospective students as they consider starting their Master of Science in information systems degree?

    “First and foremost, it is a lot of hard work, but if you want to succeed you will make it. Everyone at Le Moyne wants you to succeed. You just need to put forth the hard work and effort. That is what will separate you from the crowd of students in the information system field, no matter what age you are."

    Is there anything else that you would like to share?

    "Le Moyne is determined to make sure that every student is successful, and is committed to expanding and shaping the information systems program as technology evolves."

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