"Military life has helped me grow stronger as a person, a spouse, and a parent."
Military life teaches resilience, adaptability, and perseverance—but it can also create unique challenges for spouses pursuing higher education and long-term career goals. Through our Education Assistance program, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society helps military families invest in their futures by providing needs-based grants and interest-free loans that make higher education more accessible.
For Ariel Moore, the wife of an active-duty Sailor, that support is helping turn an ambitious goal into reality as she works toward a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Maryland Global Campus.
“Receiving this scholarship will significantly ease the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on how to afford tuition, books, and other school-related expenses,” Moore said. “This support also motivates me to maintain academic excellence and give back to my community in the future.”
Military life has shaped not only Moore's educational journey, but also her outlook on family, service, and personal growth. She reflected on the rewards and challenges that come with supporting a loved one in uniform.
“My spouse’s service has brought our family a sense of pride, purpose, and resilience. Frequent moves and long deployments haven’t always been easy, especially when it comes to building a stable routine or maintaining a consistent career path. However, these experiences have taught me adaptability, patience, and the importance of a strong support system,” Moore said. “Being part of the military community has also provided a sense of belonging and camaraderie that I truly value. I’ve learned to cherish the small moments and celebrate the sacrifices our family makes for a greater cause. While military life can be unpredictable, it has helped me grow stronger as a person, a spouse, and a parent. These experiences continue to influence my goals and drive my desire to pursue higher education and build a better future for my family.”
Those experiences have fueled Moore's determination to build a career that can adapt to the realities of military life while creating new opportunities for her family. Her studies in technology are helping her do exactly that.
“I’m excited to explore areas like programming, software development, and data structures, as well as emerging fields such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Earning this degree will open doors to a stable and fulfilling career that can move with me wherever military life takes us,” Moore said.
For military families like the Moores, educational opportunities can create lasting change that extends far beyond the classroom. By helping service members, spouses, and children pursue degrees and professional development, NMCRS is investing in stronger families and brighter futures.
In 2025, NMCRS awarded 447 grants and interest-free loans supporting undergraduate and graduate education. Education Assistance is just one of the many ways NMCRS supports active-duty and retired Sailors, Marines, and their families. Learn more about eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and available resources here.