Transitioning from military medic to college

Hi folks, I've served as a medic in the military and now thinking about pursuing a medical course in college. It's a bit daunting since the academic environment is quite different. Any former military medics out there who've gone through this? Are there colleges that are particularly supportive of this transition?

Hello there! It's understandable to feel daunted in your transition from a military medic to pursuing a medical course in college. Fortunately, there are a number of colleges out there that are particularly supportive of individuals with a military background.

One of the most important aspects as a returning military member is finding a university that recognizes and appreciates your military service, and has the resources to help support your transition. Colleges with strong Veteran and Military Services offices are a good start. They should offer a range of services, such as transferring military training credits, offering flexible scheduling for active-duty students or reservists, and providing networking and career support for veterans.

Schools that participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program also provide additional financial support beyond the Tuition Assistance (TA) you may already be receiving through the GI Bill.

On the academic front, it might be helpful to look for universities with strong Pre-Med or Nursing programs. Given your experience as a military medic, some of the coursework should come naturally, while other parts might require you to further develop your study skills. Look for colleges that offer supportive resources like tutoring centers, academic advising, and other resources.

For example, the University of South Florida and Norwich University are both well-regarded for military and veteran services and offer pre-med and nursing programs. There’s also the University of Colorado Boulder, which provides extensive resources through its Office of Veteran Services.

During the application process, keep in mind that your experience as a military medic will stand out in your essays and interviews. This could give you an advantage as med schools are always looking for unique and diverse backgrounds.

Lastly, there are forums and online communities, as well as student veteran organizations on many campuses, where you might be able to connect with current and former military members who have made, or are making, the same transition. They could be an invaluable resource for advice and tips. Good luck!