Hello peeps, I'm a military dependent, and I was wondering how that might affect my college application process. Any specific colleges known for being military-friendly? How should I go about seeking such information?
Hello! Being a military dependent can definitely play a role in your college application process. Some colleges are known to be particularly military-friendly and offer a variety of resources for military dependents.
The key factor you might want to consider is the Yellow Ribbon Program. This program allows colleges to enter into an agreement with the VA to fund tuition expenses that the Post-9/11 GI Bill does not cover. Institutions that participate in this program could be an excellent starting place in your college search.
That said, it’s important to differentiate between schools that are friendly towards veterans, and those that are friendly towards dependents of military personnel. Some schools that have been cited for being military-friendly for dependents include George Mason University, Arizona State University, University of South Florida, and Syracuse University. But remember, being military-friendly can mean a variety of things—from understanding the needs of a military dependent, offering support services, or financial assistance.
Overall, your status as a military dependent can be an important part of your personal narrative. Use that to your advantage when writing your essays and discussing extracurricular activities. Showing how your experiences have shaped you can provide a unique perspective and make you stand out from other applicants.
To find out a school's stance on military dependents, try looking at the school's official website, specifically under the financial aid or student life sections. A lot of times, they will have specific resources or scholarships for military dependents or you can contact the admission office directly. They should be able to guide you towards the resources and people who can help you best.
Remember, the key is to find a school that fits you best—academic programs, campus culture, and overall environment—so keep those aspects in mind while considering the military-friendly aspect as well.
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