Bradley Carpenter was tired of the direction his life was heading. He wanted a change and began his new direction at Mayland Community College.

Carpenter's mom influenced him to go to Mayland and earn his GED. After being in a rut, Carpenter received his GED in 2007, and decided to serve his country. He completed basic training and advanced individualized training and is now a member of the National Guard.

"The training was hard both physically and mentally," said Carpenter. "They break you down and then build you back up to be a solider. You have to learn to follow before you can lead."

Carpenter says these characteristics have changed the way he views life. He is setting goals and is determined to see things through.

"Now I have learned to decide things on my own, and I know the direction I want to go in," said Carpenter who will return to Mayland to begin work on his Associate Degree. "My head and heart are a lot stronger now and I am focused and want to stay in school unlike before."

Carpenter can be called into service at any point, but is looking forward to starting his degree so he can move up the ranks.

"I want to go back into service as an officer and work my way up the rankings," said Carpenter. "I am a better role model now for my brother, cousins, and even friends. I want them to do better for them selves."

For more information call 1-800-4-MAYLAND, ext. 222.