Team Andersen furthers education through base education office Published Nov. 30, 2008 By Senior Airman Nichelle Griffiths 36th Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- These days it's important to go above and beyond just a high school diploma. Employers are looking for highly qualified and educated people. This means that a high school education just won't do. Education is highly encouraged in the U.S. Air Force, so much so that you have to have your Community College of the Air Force degree to advance to the rank of Senior Master Sgt. Being in the military has many benefits including benefits that help you to further your education. So why not take advantage of these benefits? Did you know that the U.S. Air Force offers $4,500 per year and up to $250 per credit hour in tuition assistance for active duty military personnel? Why not take advantage of the TA? It's free money that benefits you now and definantly helps you in the future. "Furthering your education contributes to members being effective communicators, leaders, and managers," explains Mr. Celestin Babauta the Team Chief of Andersen's Base Training and Education Services. According to the Base Education Office there are over 1280 military members on Andersen actively pursuing degree programs. The U.S. Air Force spent over $164 million in Tuition Assistance in 2007, contributing in the awarding of over 22,000 associate degrees, over 5,000 baccalaureate degrees and 5,000 master's degrees. The education office can help with setting up an education plan to suit your needs. If you don't think going to school is convenient for you, then think again because you can attend classes on base or online. On base classes are held Monday through Saturday. For more information on the benefits the U.S. Air Force offers in furthering your education visit the base education office or the U.S. Air Force Virtual Education Center at https://www.my.af.mil/gcss-af/USAF/ep/contentView.do?contentType=URL&contentId=1497624&channelPageId=-1073755231&programId=1478364&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.my.af.mil%2Fafvecprod. If you want to be that highly educated and highly qualified person employers are looking for, further your education.