Michael Barnes

When his son graduated from high school, Michael A. Barnes knew it was time for him to return to school and complete his bachelor’s degree. “Community health is interesting because I feel it is important to give back to the community and help others get to where they want to be in their lives,” says Barnes.

For nearly a decade Barnes combined both of those goals serving as an instructional assistant at a local middle school helping challenged students and as a residential counselor working in a group home setting with young adults with disabilities.

Choosing TU to pursue a health science degree “was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” attests Barnes, who transitioned easily to a four-year institution. “Baltimore City Community College played an integral part in my academic development and preparing me for success at TU,” notes Barnes. “Here at Towson University, I was totally accepted as a 49-year-old nontraditional student. The most challenging part of returning to school was mastering the different aspects of technology.”

“ I was totally accepted as a 49-year-old nontraditional student at Towson University. ”

Barnes will complete his degree even sooner than anticipated thanks to TU’s support. “I received Towson University’s Neil Gallagher Scholarship and the Osher Reentry Scholarship. Together, with my veteran’s benefits I received enough financial assistance to attend classes full time.”

The former U.S. Air Force Sergeant began his career in the military and hopes to finish his career helping others who have served. “Eventually I would like to work with other veterans in a setting like the Baltimore VA Medical Center. Veterans represent a population that could use healthcare advocacy.” Following clinical placements in health advocacy roles with the Baltimore City Health Department and the Baltimore City Public Schools, Barnes is well prepared assist fellow veterans.