Pursuing College Education as a Veteran

Recently discharged from military service and thinking about starting college. Any recommendations for the best colleges for veterans?

With your military background, you bring unique experiences and leadership skills to campuses that can be highly valued by many colleges. Fortunately, numerous institutions across the country cater specifically to the educational needs of veterans.Some of these colleges provide extensive support services for veterans, such as dedicated student organizations, veteran-specific counseling, and academic credit for military training. Others participate in initiatives like the Yellow Ribbon Program, a provision of the Post-9/11 GI Bill that can help make private colleges and universities more affordable for veterans.Here are a few institutions that consistently rank well for veteran services and support:

1. Georgetown University: It is known for its Veterans Office, which assists veterans in maximizing their benefits and transitioning into academic life.

2. University of Southern California (USC): USC offers a strong Veterans Resource Center, and is a Yellow Ribbon Program participant.

3. University of Arizona: The university is recognized for its large population of veteran students and its comprehensive support services for veterans.

4. Syracuse University: The Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse offers numerous resources specifically to help veterans succeed academically.

5. Dartmouth College: Dartmouth is very supportive of veterans, and they have the Posse Veterans Program, which provides a full scholarship to a cohort of veterans each year.

It's also worthy to mention online colleges. They offer flexibility that may be beneficial for veterans adjusting to civilian life. Arizona State University (ASU) and University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) are just two of the colleges that are often recommended for their robust online programs.

When choosing a college, consider factors such as the availability of your desired major, size of the institution, location, available support for veterans, and financial aid options. Remember to take advantage of resources like the GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program to help fund your education. Starting your college journey can be exciting, challenging but well worth it. Best of luck in your search!