Value of Military-Friendly Colleges

Hey there! I'm kind of conflicted between going straight into college or enlisting. I just found out there are 'military-friendly' colleges and that sounds like a sweet middle ground. Victory Media was mentioned specifically in what I was reading. How genuine are these military-friendly policies and what kind of support do they provide to students who are veterans or active-duty?

In general, 'military-friendly' colleges aim to accommodate the unique needs of military veterans and active-duty personnel. The benefits can vary from school to school, but they can be quite comprehensive. Here are a few of the potential offerings that these schools might provide:

1. Financial Assistance: This might come in the form of reduced tuition for veterans and/or active-duty military personnel, scholarships designed specifically for these groups, or assistance in accessing and maximizing GI Bill benefits.

2. Academic Flexibility: Because military personnel might have less predictable schedules or may get deployed at any time, these colleges often offer greater flexibility when it comes to class scheduling and deadlines. Online classes can be a common offering for this reason.

3. Veteran and Military Student Services: Many schools have dedicated offices or staff that can help military students navigate their unique path through college. This could include help with financial matters, counseling, and academic advising that takes into account their service experiences and future career goals.

4. Credit for Military Training: Some schools may offer course credit for certain types of military training and experience, thereby reducing the amount of time and classes needed to obtain a degree.

5. Transition Support: Schools may provide resources to help veterans transition to civilian and academic life. This could come in the form of counseling to address any emotional or psychological issues, as well as career counseling to help transfer their military skills to the civilian workforce.

Do remember to research and verify these benefits at the specific colleges you're considering, to ensure the support they offer aligns with what you're looking for. The 'military-friendly' term can sometimes be used more as a marketing ploy rather than a genuine representation of the services provided. However, Victory Media has established a respected reputation in the military and education community for its lists of military-friendly schools, which are based on public data sources and a proprietary survey.

Also, it's worth noting that choosing a military-friendly college doesn't necessarily mean you have to enlist right away or at all. You may find that the opportunities to participate in ROTC or similar programs strike a balance for you. As always, the best path will depend on your personal interests and career goals.