James Hatch says taking classes at Yale University is just as difficult as preparing for the unpredictability of war. Hatch is not your normal first year college student. He is 52 years old and formerly served in the United States Navy Sea, Air and Land Teams, commonly known as Navy SEALS. “My experience in academia is somewhat limited, at best,” he says. “But I want to learn, and I feel this can make me a better person. I also feel my life experience can help some of the young people out.” Hatch’s road to one of the country’s most respected universities has been unusual. He joined the U.S. military out of high school, became a SEAL and spent nearly 26 years in the Navy. He fought in Afghanistan and other areas.