Hi folks, just finished my service and I'm planning to start my undergrad journey. Which top colleges are known for accepting and even valuing military personnel? Thanks in advance!
Hello! First off, thank you for your service. It's a great decision to continue your educational journey. Veterans bring a unique perspective and diverse experiences to college communities, and many top universities value that diversity and the leadership skills you've developed.
Among these, Columbia University has a strong commitment to veterans and is known for its School of General Studies (GS), which is designed specifically for non-traditional students including veterans. They are very supportive of military personnel and their experiences.
Another university known for its support of veterans is Dartmouth College. Dartmouth offers strong support for veterans through their Dartmouth Veteran Education initiative, and boasts a close-knit veteran community. Their Tuck School of Business also has a program specifically designed for veterans who are interested in business.
Yale University also places a high value on military personnel. Their Warrior-Scholar Project is a rigorous academic boot camp designed to help enlisted veterans transition from the military to college.
The University of Pennsylvania is another good pick for veterans. They have comprehensive resources and support systems in place to ensure the smooth transition from army life to academic life, and offer a special Veteran Upward Bound program designed to help veterans develop skills needed for higher education.
Before making a decision, you'll also want to check if these schools participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which provides additional funds for university fees and tuition that go beyond the amounts covered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
Keep in mind, too, that your military experience can demonstrate leadership and perseverance, qualities that can set you apart in admissions essays and interviews. Best of luck with your applications!
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