How Michael Turner Found His Path Through Greenville University’s Online Program

Published: April 15, 2026

Author: Dave Bell

By day, he wears a fluorescent orange vest and drives an Illinois Department of Transportation truck through Madison County.

By night, he’s an online student at Greenville University, three classes away from completing a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership.

Any way you slice it, Michael Turner is not a typical college student. He’s 32 years old, an ex-Marine, married with two sons, and working full-time as a highway maintainer.

Photo by Dave Bell

“It’s odd to think about finally finishing,” said Michael, who grew up in Grafton and currently lives in Godfrey. “I was never a guy who really dreamed of getting a degree. But now that I’m getting close, I can see that it will give me more options.

“For sure, completing a degree offers a sense of accomplishment,” he added. “But more importantly, it’s taught me that to better yourself, you must challenge yourself.”

Yet, there was a time when his dream looked unattainable. He’d taken four semesters of business classes at a community college near his home. When he explored transferring to a nearby four-year university, only a handful of the credits would apply toward the degree.

A friend suggested that he contact Greenville University, where he found that the transfer picture was considerably different, with most of his credits counted toward his bachelor’s degree.

“I’m thankful that GU supports older people like me who want to go back to school,” Michael said. “They understand that people my age are often unable to go to school full-time, and they’ve made the online program a great option. I’ve found that most of my online professors are doing other things, too, so they understand my situation.”

Between military benefits, a scholarship, and GU financial aid, he has been able to afford college at a pace that fits his life circumstances. He is thankful for donors who ease the financial burden on older students as they balance work, family obligations, and school assignments.

He also appreciates the faith element that is central to a GU education.

“The Christian atmosphere isn’t anything new to me,” he said. “I grew up going to church, and I hold many Christian values. It’s been good to attend a school where faith is central to its mission. And even though I’m currently wrestling with some things in my faith journey, I feel welcomed and not judged by other students.”

So, what’s next for Michael? Once he completes his degree, he plans to take some time off from school to reflect on his future.

“I’m still working on the vision for what I want to be doing,” he said. “People always seem to come to me to solve problems, so law school could be an option. I’ve enjoyed the experience here at Greenville. It’s given me some valuable tools as I consider what’s next.

“It’s important to establish a direction you want to go. Find what is important to you and pursue it. College gave me a roadmap, and now I need to determine which road will take me where I want to go.”

Meanwhile, he’ll continue to crisscross Madison County, keeping the roads maintained and safe for the traveling public.