Join us in this inspiring episode of the Degrees of Success podcast featuring Rich Valerga. In this episode, Rich Valerga shares his journey from a diverse upbringing across various countries to his experiences in the military and education. He discusses his experiences in education, focusing on the challenges and triumphs of leadership during significant transitions in school districts. He reflects on personal sacrifices, the importance of community, and the complexities of merging and restructuring educational institutions. Rich Valerga shares his journey of personal and professional growth, highlighting his community engagement in Plainfield, Illinois, his health challenges including multiple heart attacks, and his aspirations for the future. He reflects on the importance of education and the impact it has had on his life, as well as the challenges of navigating career transitions and the desire for a less stressful work environment. Rich's story is one of resilience, family, and the pursuit of meaningful contributions to society.   ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Graduation from University of Phoenix was a memorable experience. ✓ Rich's personal mantra is 'Just get it done.' ✓ The military provided a sense of connection and purpose. ✓ Education was a key factor in Rich's personal growth. ✓ The importance of community in education. ✓ School operations involve intricate logistics. ✓ Education has been a major theme in Rich's life and career. ✓ Rich reflects on the importance of community and personal growth.   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - Opening Thoughts on Education 00:46 - Podcast Introduction 01:00 - Guest Introduction: Rich Valerga 01:27 - Early Life in the Philippines and Moving Around 03:00 - Shared Military Family Experiences 05:00 - Life Lessons from Military Upbringing 06:30 - Pizza Making and Family Life 07:45 - Returning to School and Night Driving Job 09:00 - Choosing IT and Career Motivation 10:30 - Education and Certifications 12:00 - Influence of Family and Grandparents 13:30 - Working at University of Phoenix 15:00 - Pursuing a Master's and Working at the University 17:00 - Career Shift Post-MBA 18:00 - Rebuilding Schools After Hurricane Katrina 20:00 - Experiences in New Orleans Post-Katrina 23:00 - Facing Hurricane Gustav and Staying Behind 26:00 - Lessons on Stuff vs. Experience 28:00 - Reflection on Pandemic Blessings 29:00 - Closing Remarks   Subscribe for more powerful success stories and mindset strategies! 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast Alumni Chronicles | Main Page: 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page: 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html Explore the University of Phoenix: 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/   ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopxalumni/ ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopx/ ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/ ► X: https://x.com/UOPX   📱 Request info today: https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information 💻 Apply to one of UOPX’s online programs today: https://rb.gy/k0a75c 🎓 Find your degree program University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/find-your-program.html