Williams: Pursue an education

By Nichole Riley, Moncrief Army Community HospitalJune 25, 2009

Williams: Pursue an education
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Rank, name

Sgt. 1st Class Terra Williams

Unit

MEDDAC

Military Occupational

Specialty / Job title

68Q, pharmacy specialist / NCOIC, Department of Pharmacy

Years in service

18 years

Family

Three sons

Highest education

Pursuing a Ph.D.

Hobbies

Reading, writing, poetry, sports and spending time with family and friends

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FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- In the 18 years Sgt. 1st Class Terra Williams has served, she has been stationed at Fort Carson, Co.; Heidelberg, Germany; Fort Sam Houston, Texas; Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.; Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii; and Fort Jackson.

Williams said the most memorable experience in her Army career is taking care of Soldiers and making sure patients get the medicine they need to get well or to stay healthy. She believes patients should be treated well no matter what, because the pharmacy is usually the last stop before they leave the hospital.

Her advice to junior enlisted Soldiers is the same for everyone: "Knowledge is power; education is just a starting point.

"What you don't know may hurt you in the long run, so don't be afraid to ask questions or research on your own. You are never too old to learn or get a degree. The military is a great starting point, but you need to start now planning for your future. Soldiers have no excuse for not pursuing an education. Don't wait until you get out, start now."

Williams said her children, family and friends have been a major support throughout her military career, especially as a single parent. They have helped her get through the bad times and celebrated the good times.

Besides completing her Ph.D. and retiring from the Army, Williams plans to become a chief executive officer, teach part time and find a way to mentor single parents by empowering them with all the necessary tools to become successful.

We salute you!