At Lionel University, students come from many different backgrounds. Some are just beginning their academic journey, while others return to school later in life to pursue a long-held passion.
Harvey Cola is one of those inspiring students.
At 60 years old, after spending decades in the fitness industry, Harvey made a bold decision: he would finally pursue a formal education in Exercise Science.
Today, he has already earned his associate degree in exercise science and is working toward completing his bachelor’s degree, proving that it’s never too late to invest in yourself.
If you're interested in exploring Lionel’s academic options, you can view the full list of programs.
Harvey’s passion for fitness began early. As the son of a military father, discipline and physical fitness were part of everyday life.
“I am a military brat,” Harvey says. “The military was crucial for my development. Fitness was ingrained in me from a very early age.”
Throughout high school he was heavily involved in athletics, becoming a four-letter athlete and developing a strong foundation in sports and conditioning.
But the real turning point came during his time in military basic training.
Some soldiers were struggling to pass their physical readiness tests, particularly push-ups and sit-ups. Because of his athletic background, Harvey stepped in to help train them.
“They only get two attempts before they wash out,” he explains. “Helping those soldiers pass their tests changed everything for me.”
Seeing the direct impact he could have on others sparked something in him. From that moment forward, the personal training “bug” had bitten him.
“I’ve been involved in the fitness field ever since,” he says.
For nearly 40 years Harvey worked in gyms, earned certifications, and gained hands-on experience training others. But one thing was still missing.
A formal education in exercise science.
Making the decision to return to school wasn’t easy.
“I ran the gamut of emotions,” Harvey admits. “At 60 years of age, I wondered if I could actually do this.”
Although he had taken courses during his military service, becoming a full college student felt intimidating. Still, he knew earning a degree in Exercise Science was the natural next step.
“When I stumbled across Lionel University, it was a godsend,” he says.
Harvey was already familiar with the work of Dr. Fred Hatfield, a respected figure in the fitness world, long before discovering Lionel University.
When he realized he could study Exercise Science at a university connected to Hatfield’s legacy, the decision became clear.
“I don’t think I’ve ever made a better decision in my life other than my education here at Lionel.”
To learn more about the university and its mission, check out our about page.
Harvey began his journey by enrolling in the Associate’s Degree in Exercise Science program.
This program allowed him to build a strong academic foundation while balancing school with his existing responsibilities.
After successfully completing his associate degree, Harvey decided to continue his education and pursue his Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science.
For students who want to continue advancing their careers even further, Lionel also offers master’s degree programs in exercise science.
For many military members and veterans, navigating education benefits can feel overwhelming.
Harvey’s experience at Lionel University was the opposite.
“It was really easy to enroll,” he says. “They took the guesswork and fear out of the process.”
From the first interaction with the university team, he felt welcomed and supported.
“The anxiety left immediately when I started communicating with the administration,” he recalls. “The process was super smooth.”
For military students considering higher education, Harvey believes Lionel provides a clear and supportive path.
“They made you want to be a part of Lionel University.”
Students who want to understand the funding process can learn more about financial aid options.
While Harvey praises the support system at Lionel, he is quick to point out that the program is far from easy.
“Our instructors are top notch,” he says. “They’re engaging and very challenging.”
In fact, some courses pushed him harder than he expected.
“I’ve had some crying experiences with certain classes because they were really challenging,” he admits.
But for Harvey, that challenge is exactly what makes the program meaningful.
“You will earn every grade you get here,” he says. “If you think you’re just going to be given a grade, you’re at the wrong university.”
What makes the experience special, he explains, is the balance between high standards and strong support.
“If you’re having an issue, all you have to do is reach out. Whatever problem you’re having, it will get resolved.”
Students interested in professional certifications alongside their degrees can also explore programs like the:
Lionel Certified Personal Trainer
or the Master Trainer Program
One of Harvey’s most meaningful experiences at Lionel has been the relationships he’s built with fellow students.
Moving from course to course, he often recognizes the same classmates who began the program alongside him.
Seeing those familiar names and receiving encouragement from them has been powerful.
“It’s emotional,” he says. “There’s so much support here.”
Students cheer each other on, offer encouragement, and help one another through difficult coursework.
“They’re not going to let you fail,” Harvey says. “There’s just too much encouragement.”
Between classmates, professors, and administrators, he feels surrounded by people who genuinely want him to succeed.
“Lionel is here for you all the way around the spectrum.”
Harvey’s dedication has not gone unnoticed.
After earning a 4.0 GPA during one semester, Lionel University nominated him for membership in the National Society of Leadership and Success.
The recognition came as a complete surprise.
“I had no clue it was coming,” he says. “I received a letter saying I was recommended by Lionel University. I was floored.”
The honor meant a great deal to him, particularly because it reflected the leadership qualities the university saw in his work.
In addition to this recognition, Harvey also earned a spot on the Dean’s List.
For anyone considering Lionel University — especially those wondering if it might be too late to go back to school — Harvey offers simple advice:
Go for it.
“You are not just a number here,” he says.
Lionel University recognizes students for who they are and what they bring to the community.
“They saw leadership in me,” he says. “And that meant everything.”
As Harvey continues toward completing his bachelor’s degree, he remains just as excited about education as when he started.
“I’ll be 62 in June,” he says. “And I’m still loving this journey.”
His story serves as a reminder that growth, learning, and new opportunities don’t have an expiration date.
Sometimes the most powerful journeys begin later in life.
If you're ready to start your own journey in exercise science, explore Lionel University’s programs.
Or contact the Lionel admissions team to learn more.