For Aidan Butora, college life has looked differently than it does for many of his peers. At just 21, the Communications and Media Arts student is balancing real-life responsibilities by pursuing his degree in communications while serving in the Army National Guard. For Butora, this dual commitment has shaped both his education and his outlook on life.
The Chenango Valley graduate’s SUNY Broome story started in the Liberal Arts and Sciences A.A. program, but he found his niche in communications. The change, he said, opened new creative possibilities.
“My original goal was to become a writer,” Butora said. “But with communications, becoming a director or working in film felt like a better way to tell stories.”
Butora gains hands-on experience in the film industry.
In March 2023, Butora’s own story took an interesting turn by walking right into a recruiting office on his own. His decision to enlist was driven largely by the Veteran’s education benefits, including plans to use the GI Bill for his eventual transfer to a four-year institution.
Months later, he headed to Fort Leonard Wood in south-central Missouri to train as a horizontal construction engineer, a role focused on building and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, trenches and protective barriers. While the duties are practical, the ever-creative Butora sees the military as valuable life experience to inform his writing.
“As a writer, it’s important to understand the world,” he said. “The military humbled me and showed me things I never would have realized otherwise.”
Now halfway through his contract, Butora stays busy as both a soldier and a student, with monthly drill weekends and extended annual training exercises during the summer. At times, military duties have taken priority over coursework, including a deployment last year to assist at a correctional facility during a statewide prison staff shortage. Despite those disruptions, Butora said the experience has strengthened his discipline and perspective.
“It made problems in school feel more manageable,” he said. “You learn quickly what really matters, and how to stay calm under pressure.”
His military composure carries into the classroom, where he said he has learned the value of observation and restraint.
In addition to his studies and service, Butora is active in campus life as a member of the Communications Club and an internship which led to a paid position in SUNY Broome’s Office of Marketing and Communications (MarCom). There, Butora has developed skills in video production, editing and media organization, while learning to think creatively and approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset.
Butora earns Student Leader Award at the 2026 Student Engagement Recognition Ceremony. Photo Credits: Matt Ebbers
Reflecting on the bold choice to both enroll in college and enlist in the military, Butora said it was the perfect path for him.
“I wouldn’t change a thing,” Butora said. “What I’ve learned – you can’t put a price on that.”
After graduating with the distinction of serving as a student marshal at this year’s commencement, his future plans include attending SUNY Purchase in the fall to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Film. Butora plans to pursue his dream of becoming a film director through this educational path.
Butora’s advice for future students: “Be excited for problems,” he said. “That’s how you grow.”
By: Avery Copeland
