Rare Opportunity For South Carolina Student

COLUMBIA, S.C. (NNS) -- A University of South Carolina student received college funds via the Navy's Baccalaureate Degree Completion Program (BDCP) at the Midlands Technical Community College Military Day Career Fair March 24 in Columbia, S.C.

Cmdr. David S. Kemp, United States Navy, presented a check to Russell Jones. Jones is a participant in the Navy's BDCP and one of only two students in North and South Carolina to enter the program after attending a community college.

Kemp hand-picked Jones from Midlands Technical Community College for the Navy's BDCP program.

"We were thrilled to recognize the type of high quality student that Midlands Tech produces," said Kemp. "This check presentation hopefully made others aware of the special opportunities available through the Navy's BDCP."

Originally from Chapin, S.C., Jones is studying Applied Mathematics. He also volunteers his time to the elderly weekly and has an impressive background in real estate. Jones is in the Navy's pilot program and will become an officer in the Navy straight out of college.

Local Navy recruiters had a booth at the career fair and answered questions from job applicants, students and those looking to learn more about what the Navy has to offer.

As an undergraduate, a student can apply to receive up to $169,700 in financial assistance through the BDCP. BDCP enables you to get the most out of college life – no loans, no part-time jobs, no uniforms and no military service until after graduation. Then, you step right into a leadership role as a respected Navy officer in fields ranging from engineering to intelligence to public affairs.

For more information on opportunities in the Navy, please call 1-800-USA-Navy or visit www.navy.com.

For more news from Navy Recruiting District - Raleigh, visit www.navy.mil/local/nrdraleigh/.