U.S. Army Veteran Approaching Degree Milestone via AGS

May 7, 2026Lee SpeightsPrograms of study:Psychology and Human Services

Lee Speights, decorated author, entrepreneur, certified fitness professional, and former U.S. Army servicemember, is on the cusp of adding academic distinction to his multifaceted portfolio through Montreat College’s School of Adult and Graduate Studies.

“Final hurdle remains,” remarks Speights, a Rock Hill, SC resident aiming to finish by year-end. “There’s still distance to cover, but perseverance guarantees arrival.”

Reflecting on his extended educational odyssey, Speights discusses overcoming obstacles to finally achieve his bachelor’s credential after decades in uniform.

What reignited your academic pursuit?
After 23 years of military service, retirement became my catalyst for completing higher education. Freed from duty’s constraints, I faced no remaining barriers to finishing my degree.

Why Montreat’s AGS program?
Seeking an environment beyond traditional classrooms, I gravitated toward Montreat’s distinctive blend of academic rigor and personal community. Their hybrid learning model proved ideal during pandemic disruptions, allowing consistent progress despite shifting circumstances.

Progress assessment:
Pre-Montreat status indicated under fifty percent completion. Transfer credit recognition from prior military academies accelerated advancement toward graduation.

Weekly commitment:
Academic load varies between four to twelve hours weekly depending on course demands. Manageable pacing enables sustainable productivity without burnout.

Classload strategy:
Typically one course at a time ensures focused attention while permitting necessary mental recovery periods between sessions.

Degree direction:
Initially targeting psychology, final focus settled on human services to complement writing aspirations and existing expertise.

Literary achievements:
Two published works already exist—including relationship guidance manual Miss Wright for Mr. Right (2016)—with forthcoming poetry collection honoring maternal legacy.

Life integration:
Balancing entrepreneurship, family responsibilities, and creative writing requires spiritual grounding. Daily prayer maintains equilibrium amid complex priorities.

Post-graduation vision:
Reviving paused fitness enterprise will integrate psychological principles into wellness coaching. Public speaking engagements will leverage interdisciplinary knowledge while expanding human services involvement through continued volunteering.

Montreat value proposition:
Faith-based curriculum delivers both intellectual growth and spiritual nourishment. Faculty demonstrate authentic care aligned with Christian values across all disciplines.

Prospective student guidance:
Age or delay never limits achievement. Commencement requires identifying actionable steps toward desired outcomes.

Montreat endorsement:
Institutional support network fosters confidence in ambitious learners committed to transformative education.