7 Resources for Student Veterans
Networking is a great resource for veterans and a great way to find additional resources. (Stock photo)
Many student veterans find themselves facing a new and unforgiving academic world. College is different from the military, but many resources are available to help student veterans and their families academically, financially, and with mental health. Here are some of those resources.
Job Information & Training
The Department of Labor website is often discussed during service members' transition programs. The DOL site helps veterans with research on civilian jobs. It can also give some information on the credentials the job requires, the job's projected growth, and how military training and experience may relate to the job.
The DOD Voluntary Education Program offers civilian high school, vocational-technical, undergraduate and graduate educational opportunities to service members through their local education centers.
Transcripts & Credentials
Several websites and resources help translate your military education and job experience into something that equals college credit. The Army/American Council on Education Registry Transcript System (AARTS) is one option that helps you figure out what wording will be easily understood by civilian educators and employees.
Each service has its credentialing website, which veterans can find under the DOD Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) Portal umbrella site—designed to help match military jobs with civilian certifications, licenses and apprenticeships and offers additional resources.
Another resource for transcripts and credit evaluation is the American Council on Education. Teams help by providing guidelines and recommendations for credits for service schools, training and college-level tests.
Networking
Finding people who understand what you're going through is vital for success. The first place to start is your local Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter, or if your campus doesn't have one, you can view their resources online.
Related: These 4 Veteran Organizations Can Help You Grow Your Network
SVA is focused on a smooth transition for veterans entering higher education. They focus on networking and advocacy, and there is a place for you there. Veterans can find other networking opportunities online through popular sites like LinkedIn and RallyPoint.
For Families
We know veterans aren't doing this alone. Sometimes the military-affiliated student is a spouse or child, and sometimes the whole family needs some support. The primary source for military families is Military OneSource. They are known for their focus on mental health and have counseling available 24/7 via their Military Crisis Line. (Call 800-273-8255, then press 1, or access online chat by texting 838255). Military OneSource's website also has information on installations and additional resources available to military families. They are a great first stop when you have questions.
Learn more about GI Bill® benefits and other resources available to veterans and military-connected students.