How divine intervention led this U.S. Marine out of the mortgage industry to Concordia University Wisconsin and an exciting new teaching career.
For Terrence Perfect, serving others has always been a calling. After eight years in the United States Marine Corps, a 20-year career in the mortgage industry, and time spent coaching and working in school security, he found himself at a crossroads. Then, an unexpected opportunity led him to Concordia University’s Accelerated Secondary Education Social Studies Program, where he is now preparing for his next mission: shaping the future as a teacher
From the Marine Corps to a Life of Service
Terrence credits the Marine Corps for shaping him into the person he is today. “In the Marine Corps, you are expected to do the job of people ranked seven ranks higher. They train you and expect excellence,” he explains. His military career exposed him to the realities of life in countries like Cuba, Haiti, and Colombia, broadening his worldview and reinforcing the importance of discipline, leadership, and adaptability.
After completing his service, Terrence explored multiple career paths, including business, mortgage finance, and school security. However, something always felt missing. “Then God came and showed me where I belong,” he shares.
One day, he received an unexpected call from Vocational Rehabilitation at the VA, informing him that he qualified for support as a wounded veteran. Soon after, he stumbled upon an email from Concordia about its accelerated teaching degree. “I never applied for VA support, and I never looked for Concordia. It was divine intervention,” he reflects.
Bringing Military Values into the Classroom
Now working as a paraprofessional, Terrence already sees how his military background helps him connect with students. “I am very structured, and I use my Marine Corps experience to help train children in a productive, high-expectation environment,” he says. His leadership skills and ability to build strong teams resonate with students. “I already see how they interact with me and want to do great for me. When I have my own class, I will lead them as a team to become the best version of themselves.”
His goal as an educator is clear: to create future leaders—Godly men and women who lead with confidence and faith. “I want to help students become leaders who are not afraid, because they trust in God,” he says.
Why Concordia?
Terrence was initially drawn to Concordia’s program because of its flexibility. “Once I found out it was online and I could take one class every eight weeks, I was sold. It fit my life perfectly.” However, it was Concordia’s faith-based mission that made it the right fit. “Concordia is a very nice Christian university, and that means a lot to me.”
As a veteran student, he has also found invaluable support through Concordia’s Academic Resource Center (ARC). “After being injured with a head wound, learning is hard. ARC gives me resources to have the books read to me, which helps me follow along and retain what has been read.”
Advice for Veterans Considering Teaching
Terrence encourages other veterans to explore teaching, especially those who miss the sense of purpose and leadership that the military provides. “I would urge all veterans who are looking to make an impact—the one we tend to miss so much from the military—to get into teaching. You can lead your own team, multiple teams, and you will fulfill that urge to make an impact.”
Through his teaching career, Terrence hopes to serve his community by mentoring students, inspiring leadership, and sharing his faith. “I will continue to speak to all youth, whether at my school or other schools in our area. Leaders lead from all places.”
A Mission with Lasting Impact
From the Marine Corps to the classroom, Terrence Perfect has followed a path of discipline, leadership, and faith. His journey to Concordia reflects God’s goodness, and his future in education is sure to impact generations of students. “God showed me where I belong,” he says. “Now, it’s my turn to help the next generation find their path.”
For information about veterans services at CUW, click HERE.
Want in?
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. Our Education programs focus on optimizing your abilities to serve students, schools, and the community through education. We develop well-rounded educational professionals that can teach and lead in rural and urban communities. With a Christian-centered focus, relevant curriculum, and engaging faculty you can play a meaningful role in the world of education.
Dr. Adam Paape is assistant dean of the School of Education at Concordia University Wisconsin.