What should a military veteran include in a freshman college application?

Hi all! Being a military veteran, I'm considering applying for college as a freshman. I'm a bit uncertain about what I should highlight or focus on in my application. Can anyone share some recommendations or things they think would be useful?

Certainly! Your military service can add significant value to your college application as it demonstrates qualities like discipline, leadership, commitment, and teamwork which colleges greatly appreciate. Here's a few tips on how to highlight these aspects:

1. Resume: Make sure to include your military service on your resume, noting your rank, special training, duties, any advancement in your roles, or leadership positions. This is not something most freshman applicants will have, so it can help distinguish you from other applicants.

2. Essays: Use your personal statement or other essays to discuss the impact of your military service on your personal growth and goals. You could speak about how your service influenced your decision to attend college, or how it shaped the career path you want to pursue. These stories can help illustrate your character and resilience. Remember to avoid cliches and instead opt for a unique angle or personal story.

3. Letters of Recommendation: It could be impactful to include a letter of recommendation from someone who can comment on your service, such as a superior officer or someone who worked closely with you during your military experience.

4. Coursework and Training: If you took any courses or completed specific training in the military, note those as well. They might count as credit at the college you're applying to. Additionally, they could help demonstrate your academic readiness despite the unconventional path you took to higher education.

5. Extracurriculars and Volunteering: Highlight any extracurricular pursuits or volunteer efforts during your service. This could demonstrate your ability to balance multiple areas of responsibility and your commitment to service, establishing you as a well-rounded candidate.

Remember, every perspective adds to the richness of a college community, and your unique experience as a veteran is valuable. Best of luck with your applications!