新媒网 · 跨境数据社区

Meet Chris Conacher, a resilient United States Air Force Veteran and dual U.S./U.K. citizen whose story proves that even the most devastating setbacks can lead to bold new beginnings. In 2014, while attempting to rescue an injured cat from the road, Christopher was struck by a car traveling 40 miles per hour. The accident left him with a traumatic brain injury, broken bones, and a long road to recovery. He had to relearn how to walk, talk, and eat. “I knew when I recovered that I wanted my life story to be a book worth reading,” Christopher said. “And this international journey, this challenge, is part of that.” Fast forward to 2025, and Christopher is preparing to begin an MBA at the University of Glasgow. Backed by the Post-9/11 GI Bill and inspired by his Scottish heritage, he's not just continuing his education, he's building a new life in Scotland. After earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting through Vocational Rehabilitation, Christopher worked in corporate tax with firms like Deloitte and Heska Corporation, since then acquired by Mars. Though successful, he realized something was missing. “I’m a social person,” he said. “Tax work didn’t fulfil me, I wanted to engage with people and make a broader impact.” He originally enrolled at the The University of Edinburgh but discovered a funding gap under the GI Bill. While both Glasgow’s and Edinburgh’s tuition exceeded the VA cap, the University of Glasgow offered a scholarship that made it fully covered, removing the financial barrier and making the decision clear. Christopher joined the U.S. Air Force in 2011, initially training to become an Air Traffic Controller; however, he was reclassified into a high-pressure operational role, Weapons Director, where he coordinated combat aircraft during live missions. “It’s a lot like air traffic control,” he explained, “but instead of guiding planes to land, I was directing jets to intercept enemy aircraft. It was like playing a video game, except real lives were on the line.” Then came the accident that changed everything. On his way to work in 2014, he pulled over to help an injured animal. Seconds later, he was struck by a car traveling at high speed. “I had a severe traumatic brain injury. Three brain surgeries. A broken neck, shoulder blade, orbital, and eye socket. I had to learn how to walk, talk, and even eat again.” He spent two months in a rehabilitation hospital and continued speech and cognitive therapy after discharge. It took three years for his medical retirement to be finalized in 2017. But Christopher never paused. With the help of Vocational Rehab, he earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in accounting, and is now using the GI Bill to pursue an MBA abroad. Christopher’s experience offers valuable insights for U.S. veterans and Americans with family ties to the UK. “If your parent—or even your grandparent—was born in the UK, just apply directly for a British passport. Don’t waste time waiting for confirmation of eligibility.” He submitted his documents, including his and his father’s birth certificates and his U.S. passport, and received his British passport within two months. As a dual citizen, he avoids the visa restrictions many international students face. He also encourages veterans to explore international study options using the GI Bill: “The VA process was simple. I applied online, sent in the paperwork, and had no issues using my benefits for a school in the UK.” Currently living in Edinburgh, Christopher has secured a flat in Glasgow just minutes from the University of Glasgow Adam Smith Business School, conveniently located on the city’s subway line. His rent is £950/month, significantly lower than the $2,000+ he paid in Colorado. His housing allowance from the GI Bill more than covers it. He’s also embraced Scotland’s affordable lifestyle and universal healthcare system: “Groceries are cheaper, food quality is better, and I already have my NHS number and GP (General Practitioner) set up. The difference in healthcare alone is huge.” Christopher plans to focus his MBA on finance and accounting, but his larger goal is integration: building a career in the UK and establishing a strong professional network. He’s also open to joining professional communities like the @Americans Abroad Network, and is exploring long-term career options in business and consulting after graduation. “That’s 90% of why I’m going to school. The networking. You meet people, have the right conversations, and careers come from that.” Christopher’s journey from a devastating injury to an international MBA student is a testament to resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of education to transform lives. Whether you’re a veteran, a dual citizen, or simply someone looking for a fresh start abroad, his story proves that new chapters are always possible, if you’re willing to turn the page. If you're a U.S. veteran or student curious about studying overseas, the American Study Abroad Program is here to help. From admissions to GI Bill coordination, we make the path clear. Go Further! 🌐 Learn more at: studyasap.com 📧 Contact: inquiry@studyasap.com