Are There Military-Friendly Community Colleges?

Hi everyone, I'm in my junior year and have been considering the military after graduation. I'm starting to look into community colleges that are friendly to military service members and veterans. Do you guys have any advice or suggestions on finding them?

Absolutely, there are many community colleges that are military-friendly and offer a variety of resources and programs dedicated to supporting military service members and veterans. These include veteran services centers, academic advising, counseling, tuition assistance, scholarship opportunities, and credit transfers for military training.

Firstly, look for community colleges that participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program. These schools partner with the Department of Veterans Affairs to cover a portion of the tuition expenses that the Post-9/11 GI Bill doesn't cover.

Secondly, consider schools that offer services such as the Veterans Upward Bound program, which is a federally funded initiative aimed at helping veterans develop academic and personal skills necessary for success in postsecondary education.

Also an important factor to consider is the availability of academic flexibility for service members who may be deployed during the term, or need to take time off for training or duty.

Take a look at the community colleges that are recognized by Military Times as "Best for Vets." Some of these schools have been recognized for their commitment to providing opportunities to America's veterans.

Remember to utilize College Navigator, a tool by the National Center for Education Statistics, to search for community colleges based on your preferred factors and look into their offerings for veteran and military students.

You can also reach out to the college's Office of Veteran and Military Services (or similar office) to find out about any specific programs they have and the type of support they offer. Asking questions about the resources they provide, including counseling, academic support, and career guidance, can give you a clear picture of how well the school supports its military-affiliated student population.

Lastly, talking to other service members or veterans who have undergone similar transitions can provide invaluable insights and advice. They can share their experiences and may be able to recommend a community college that was particularly supportive or helpful in their educational journey.

Remember to consider your personal preferences and study goals when choosing a college. Being military-friendly is important, but it's also key that the college offers the program of study you're interested in and fits your personal and academic needs.