Challenges and Solutions for Veterans Seeking Higher Education
Higher education is a valuable step toward personal and professional growth. But for veterans, the path to college or university often comes with unique hurdles, making it essential to understand what higher education entails and the specific challenges faced by student veterans in higher education. This article explores why higher education is significant for veterans, the obstacles they face, and effective solutions to support their academic journey.
Understanding Higher Education and Its Importance for Veterans
What is higher education? In the most basic terms, it refers to education provided by universities, colleges, and other post-high school places of learning, collectively referred to as higher education institutions. This covers a range of programs, from associate degrees to PhDs, and provides vital skills that lead to various career opportunities.
For veterans, higher education and the approach to veteran educational needs hold particular significance. An advanced degree can help them to transition from military service to civilian life by building relevant knowledge and skills, expanding career options, and fostering personal growth. According to a study by Syracuse University’s Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF), veterans with higher education experience lower unemployment rates, greater job stability, and increased lifetime earnings.
The population of veterans in higher education statistics show that nearly one million veterans were enrolled in college in recent years, accounting for about 7% of all U.S. college students. Veterans who obtain a degree experience a 10%-15% increase in annual earnings compared to those without a degree, highlighting the economic value of pursuing higher education.
Challenges Faced by Veterans in Higher Education
The journey of student veterans and servicemembers in higher education is fraught with unique challenges that set them apart from traditional students. Understanding these issues can pave the way for effective support systems.
1. Transitioning to Civilian and Academic Life
The shift from military to civilian life can be overwhelming. Veterans accustomed to a regimented and disciplined lifestyle may find the academic environment, which requires self-paced and independent study, challenging.
2. Navigating Financial and Educational Benefits
One of the most significant benefits for veterans is the GI Bill, which covers tuition and related expenses. However, understanding and accessing these benefits can be confusing and time-consuming, particularly for those dealing with complex eligibility requirements and application processes.
3. Managing Mental Health and Disabilities
Many veterans face physical and mental health challenges, including PTSD and other service-related injuries, that can hinder their academic pursuits. According to the VA, there are nearly 5 million veterans who suffer from a service-connected disability, which can affect their studies.
4. Limited Support for Academic Adjustments
Veterans often require unique accommodations to meet their learning needs. However, higher education institutions sometimes lack specialized programs or support tailored for student veterans.
5. Social Integration and Isolation
Being part of a small, older demographic within the broader college population can make veterans feel isolated. Building a supportive network within a civilian environment is essential but often difficult to navigate.
Solutions for Supporting Veterans in Higher Education
Addressing the challenges veterans face requires a multi-faceted approach from both educational institutions and support organizations. Below are solutions that provide essential support for student veterans in higher education.
1. Comprehensive Orientation Programs
Programs that help veterans understand higher education institutions can ease their transition. Colleges and universities can offer specialized orientation sessions that introduce veterans to academic life, outline available resources, and connect them with peers and mentors. This foundation can make a significant difference in their academic journey.
2. Streamlined Access to Financial Aid and Benefits
Navigating the GI Bill and other benefits can be simplified through dedicated veteran support services within schools. For instance, financial aid offices can employ trained veteran liaisons to assist with the application process, helping veterans understand their benefits and avoid financial pitfalls. Supporting veterans in higher education means ensuring they have the resources to succeed financially.
3. Mental Health and Disability Support Services
To address the mental health needs of veterans, institutions can develop tailored services in collaboration with the VA. These might include on-campus counseling with professionals experienced in veteran issues, support groups, and easy access to local VA health facilities. The development of student veterans in higher education is heavily dependent on mental health support to ensure long-term success.
4. Academic Accommodations and Tutoring
Best practices for veterans in higher education involve providing necessary accommodations, such as extended deadlines, tutoring, and adaptive equipment for those with physical or cognitive challenges. By working closely with disability services, veterans can access the resources they need to thrive academically.
5. Creating a Veteran-Friendly Campus Community
Supporting veterans in higher education requires fostering a sense of community on campus. Schools can encourage the formation of veteran student groups that provide a space for camaraderie and peer support. Social events and mentoring programs can also improve integration, helping veterans connect with non-veteran students and faculty.
6. Flexible Academic Schedules and Online Learning
Many veterans balance work, family, and education. Offering flexible class schedules, online learning, and evening or weekend courses can make higher education more accessible. The VA’s educational resources, including distance learning options, further facilitate access to academic programs for veterans.
The Path Forward
Supporting veterans in their pursuit of higher education requires collaborative efforts from higher education institutions, government programs, and community organizations. By addressing the unique challenges faced by student veterans and servicemembers in higher education, we can create pathways to academic success, economic stability, and personal fulfillment for those who have served our country.
National Veterans Homeless Support (NVHS) seeks to eliminate homelessness among veterans in Central Florida and nationwide. NVHS takes a proactive, intervention-based approach to homelessness by meeting homeless veterans where they are and helping them from there. Through programs such as Search and Rescue Outreach, NVHS helps homeless veterans get the supplies they need to survive, connects them with support and resources, and assists them in transitioning off the streets and into temporary or permanent housing. Some of our programs also include art therapy to help veterans heal. If you’re able, consider supporting our mission by donating or signing on as a volunteer.
