Choosing a college post-military service - Tips needed

I'll be finishing my service term in the military soon and am planning to go back to school. I'm a bit lost on where to start. Does anyone have any advice or resources on how to decide on a college that suits my needs? What factors should I consider, given my military background? Thanks for any thoughts on this!

Firstly, thank you for your service, and I commend your decision to further your education.

When considering colleges post-military service, one of the main factors you may want to think about is what resources and support are available for veterans. This could include a strong Office of Veteran Services, a Veteran support center or club, a priority registration system for veterans, or other veteran-friendly campus facilities and accommodations. Such support can not only ease your transition from military to campus life, but also provide a sense of community with fellow veterans.

You could also look at whether they have cooperative agreements with the Department of Defense (DoD) or Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for benefits such as tuition assistance, or offer credits for military training and experiences. Check if the school is part of the Yellow Ribbon Program, which can provide additional financial assistance on top of your GI Bill benefits.

Consider what you want to study and the academic reputation of the programs at the schools you're considering. Different schools may have different strengths academically. Do they have the major you're interested in? Are the professors well-regarded in their fields?

Location might be another factor you want to look at. Are you interested in a large, urban campus or a small, rural campus? Proximity to family and friends can also play a role in this decision.

Furthermore, as a non-traditional student, you might have different needs and expectations from the school's culture and community. Look for schools that value diversity and have a mature student base, or have resources or clubs specifically designed for non-traditional students.

Lastly, rankings and methodology sites like U.S. News and World Report, CollegeVine, or College Board can also help you to understand what the college is like in terms of cost, size, academic quality, and retention rate, amongst other things.

It might be helpful to create a list and prioritize what's most important to you in a school. Then, start researching schools that align best with your priorities. There is a wealth of information out there, so don't hesitate to reach out to the college admissions offices to ask any specific questions you may have. Good luck!