Hello there! I'm currently a junior in high school, tossing around the idea of joining the military after graduation. I've always been drawn to Tennessee and I'm interested in learning about colleges there that are friendly to veterans. Any suggestions?
Hello! That's a thoughtful plan. Tennessee indeed has a number of institutions that actively work to support veterans.
1. Vanderbilt University: As part of its commitment to veterans, Vanderbilt has joined the Yellow Ribbon Program. This program, in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), can help cover tuition and fee expenses that exceed the tuition and fee amounts payable under the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
2. University of Tennessee, Knoxville: UT Knoxville has a center specifically dedicated to supporting veterans known as the Veterans Resource Center. This center provides a variety of services, including assistance with benefits, and it sponsors events and activities designed to support veterans.
3. Middle Tennessee State University: MTSU has a long track record of serving veterans and even has a specific department for it - the Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center, the largest and most comprehensive veterans’ service center of any Tennessee higher education institution.
4. Lipscomb University: Situated in Nashville, Lipscomb University's Veteran Services combines the GI Bill with their Yellow Ribbon Program to support veterans' tuition. They also have a dedicated Veterans Services Office.
5. East Tennessee State University: ETSU offers military and veterans' scholarship opportunities and operates a dedicated Office of Military and Veterans' Affairs.
Before settling on a school, it's worth reaching out to the Veterans' Affairs offices at each institution to learn about the support they offer. You may also want to explore whether your intended program of study is offered and if there are additional resources available to help you transition from military to civilian and college life. Good luck with your decision, and thank you for considering service!
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