Applying to NC Colleges as a Military Veteran

Hey everyone! So I've served in the military and now I'm interested in attending college in North Carolina. Any other military veterans here who've gone through this process? Any tips or resources that could help me navigate my veteran status in my college application?

Hello! It's great that you're keen on pursuing your education after serving in the military. As a military veteran, you have a unique perspective and experience that can be appealing to colleges.

First, don't be shy about sharing your military experience in your application, particularly in your essays and extracurriculars. This can help you stand out from other applicants. You can discuss how your military service has shaped your personal growth, leadership abilities, or future career interests. But try to avoid cliche statements about discipline and perseverance - focus instead on specific experiences and learning moments.

Second, be sure to consider schools with strong veteran support programs. For example, North Carolina State University runs a well-regarded Military and Veterans Resource Center, offering counseling, academic advising, and other services for veterans.

Third, remember that you may also qualify for the GI Bill or other forms of financial aid targeted toward veterans. This benefit can significantly reduce the cost of your education and should be considered in your college planning process.

Lastly, there are organizations like Service to School (S2S) dedicated to helping veterans navigate their college applications. They provide free application counseling, peer-to-peer guidance, and other resources. The American Council on Education (ACE) also provides a Military Guide that can help you understand how your military training and experience may translate into academic credit.

Remember, each college may have a different application process for veterans, so it's important to review each school's admissions page or contact their admissions office directly for the most accurate information. Good luck on your college journey!