Pat Guthoff

Student, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies

Here’s an unusual way to set aside enough study time for college: bring Hollywood into the mix. Strange? Hey, it worked for one American Military University student, who turned his favorite movie into — yes — a study tool.

“My timer was ‘Patton’ playing in the background — from the prologue to the closing credits,” says Pat Guthoff, who graduated with a BA in legal studies in 2007. “It got me into a study rhythm. I’d start it up, hit the books, and then take a dinner break. I knew that when Patton and Bradley came out of the trailer, it was time to study again.”

This technique may belong to Guthoff alone, but time management and commitment to a study schedule is important for all college students.

Guthoff not only works full-time, he also serves with the New York State Guard. With a family and a crowded calendar, he used every spare minute for studying — arriving early at work, staying late, and devoting lunch hours to learning.

“I was taking eight-week courses in legal studies, two at-a-time,” says Guthoff. “That’s a great option at AMU. Once I started classes I didn’t want to let up a bit. I loved the work.”

Earning his BA was a life goal for Guthoff. “As I’ve told people,” he says, “it took me 30 years to find the right school and two minutes to decide on AMU.”

He credits his AMU degree with earning him a coveted career position.

“The study of law improved my logical thinking skills. This was so very helpful in my new job as an operations manager,” says Guthoff.

Guthoff also uses his new learning in the Guard, where he works with JAG (Judge Advocate General) units as a paralegal. There, he creates legal documents for service members who are deployed overseas.

When searching for the right college degree, he has specific goals in mind.

“I wanted an independent legal studies program where the subject was the center of attention — and not the classroom,” says Guthoff, who believes that online universities are ideal for working adults.

The curriculum in legal studies at AMU complemented the legal courses he had taken previously at other schools.

“The programs were also the most current and relevant I have ever taken,” says Guthoff. “AMU’s association with the military really attracted me, too. It gave me the feeling that I was part of something long lasting, like our American military tradition,” says Guthoff.

He found that 90 credit hours from other college work would transfer to AMU, immediately establishing him as a senior. “I resumed the legal studies track I began 25 years before,” he says.

Support from his family came without exception.

“I am married to a perfect person. We have known each other since we were eight and nine years old. We graduated high school together and have been married for 26 years,” says Guthoff.

This spring, his daughter graduates from college and their son graduates high school this spring, as well. He wanted his children to see that dad was working hard at school, too.

“I didn’t want them to have all the fun!” he jokes. “But really, it was important to me to graduate before they did.”

He appreciated the tough requirements of his AMU course of study and the encouragement of his professors.

“There was a point, in many of my classes, where I questioned whether I could get through,” he says. “The teachers expect a lot. But I could call or email them, and they would tirelessly help me through any assignment or issue.”

He learned from other students, as well.

“During each class everyone is expected to post assignments, and comment on the postings of fellow students. I found this to be one of the most interesting and enjoyable facets of the program. I learned something new every time. My fellow students were always impressive,” says Guthoff.

“And they have crafted a wonderful collection of individual libraries and recommended Internet links. It gives you confidence that the information you gather is safe and correct.”

In his 50s, Guthoff encourages others his age — or any age — to pursue a degree program.

“When I look at my class ring and read its inscription — American Military University Legal Studies 2007 — I feel that anything is possible.”

FAST FACTS

• Pat Guthoff
• Residence: Wappingers Falls, N.Y.
• Occupation: Area operation manager, Cablevision Systems Corp.
• Study path: AMU graduate - BA Legal studies, 2007. Plans to pursue MBA in future.
• Career goal: In the right position now – following a recent promotion. Also is a paralegal with the New York State Guard.
• Family: Married with children - Caitlin, 21, and Ian, 18