Real Story: Phillip Ball Jr.

Phillip Ball Jr.

Current Student, Arts and SciencesCSM student Phillip Ball working in front of a computer screen

Current Job Title: CSM Government Relations Intern
Accolades, Accomplishments, and Highlights: Master Sergeant, U.S. Army (retired); Bronze Star recipient

I am an Army career veteran, having served from 1976 to 2009. I was a master sergeant (E-8) and served in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom as a combat veteran from 2005 through 2009. I received the Bronze Star for serving as convoy commander on numerous occasions, including a convoy mission that resulted in four thousand Iraqi soldiers on post. After separation from the military, my wife and I moved to Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

As a 68-year-old retiree attending the College of Southern Maryland, I have successfully completed 24 courses so far. Going to college with Generation Z is a new and challenging experience in my life, since I am a Baby Boomer. I prefer face-to-face instruction in the classroom for the opportunity to learn and be engaged in the class discussion.

I learned in the military to be disciplined and adapt to changes. My strengths are staying “Army strong” with a cheerful outlook toward my goal to complete it successfully. My next step is to receive an associate degree in arts and sciences. I am looking forward to improving my cognitive strategies and brainstorming frame ideas in ENG-1020 Composition & Literature to be able to write a book about my life’s legacy.

I appreciate the support of Rebecca Collins for doing an outstanding job working with veterans and the CSM Veterans Lounge. The Veterans Lounge is an area where I can come to campus early and study for class before it starts during the day or evening. It is a place for making a connection with other veterans and acknowledging that we are not alone. There are other veterans like us who are going through similar experiences, overcoming obstacles, embracing positive outcomes for hospitalization and rehabilitation, and finding pathways through their lives today.

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Last updated: 5-23-23

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