Determining how female Marines currently pursuing a degree in higher education perceive their journey and experiences can provide valuable information for those contemplating pursuing higher education. Additionally, these perceptions can inform the need for modifications to policies at supporting organizations and educational institutions that are in place to assist in the process. The purpose of this study is to describe the perceptions and experiences of nondegree holding enlisted Marine active-duty women student veterans who are pursuing a degree in higher education. Individual interview transcripts and Marine Corps educational documents were analyzed and interpreted to describe the meaning and understanding that non-degree holding enlisted Marine active-duty women student veterans assign to their experiences in higher education. Results indicated that enlisted Marine active-duty women student veterans perceive value in obtaining a higher education degree due to the increased ability to find another career, as well as positive outcome expectations such as rewards, pride, or benefits. Experiences before the Marine Corps and during their current career developed personal characteristics that would benefit them, such as self-sufficient behaviors, confidence, resilience, and life skills. Results also indicated that their desire to carry their weight within the unit became detrimental because pursuing higher education appeared selfish when others had to assume their duties in their absence. The value an organization places on education and the pursuit of education by its members was recognized as important to that pursuit and must resonate with its most junior members. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]