Easing the Transition
Many military and veteran students have made frequent moves and/or experienced multiple deployments which have disrupted their academic progress, not to mention their entire lives. This, however, has also given them a rich experience living abroad among other cultures and has likely increased their ability to adapt to new situations. Campuses must have frequent and practical training programs for staff on how to be sensitive to the unique needs of this population and be able to provide information on existing campus and/or local community resources available to create a positive and welcoming environment for them.
Military and veteran students’ experiences can enhance the diversity at your institution, but sensitivity to their emotional and social well-being is critical. They may have first-hand experience with dangerous military operations that sets them apart — and potentially isolates them — from fellow students who do not have personal direct knowledge of warfare. Campus personnel must be able to detect and address issues in and outside the classroom that could interfere with students’ academic success.
Academic Policies
Military students bring a deep belief in honor, accountability and responsibility to the table. As such, they expect honesty and clarity in dealing with campus personnel. If possible, establish a single point of contact within each administrative office to serve as the “military student/veteran specialist.” All conversations with a military/veteran student must be transparent, from discussing accreditation to transferability of credit. Streamlining the academic processes and procedures for them is a great first step. For example, it is likely that military/veteran students have credits from several different institutions, and developing an easy transfer credit evaluation process with a quicker turnaround results in less frustration for the student. In addition, providing a thorough — and individualized, if possible — orientation to the institution when a military/veteran student first matriculates is one way to increase his or her confidence and ease the stress of this new endeavor.
Institute flexible military student-friendly academic policies related to dropping courses and withdrawal, incomplete courses and readmission. With a higher incidence of mobility, this population stops and starts class sessions more frequently than other adult students. For that reason, colleges should allow for extended time frames to complete degrees, especially at the graduate level. Offer many class options, including in-seat and online delivery venues, as well as directed or individual study courses which fit the military student’s lifestyle and schedule. Establish early intervention strategies that target military and veteran students experiencing academic difficulty — a network of faculty, staff and administrators that reach out with aggressive, intrusive academic assistance can increase persistence to degree.
Financial Assistance
Military and veteran students may know they receive funding through the GI Bill, but may be at a loss as to how they can apply for it. Campus experts must be well-versed in all chapters of military aid as well as the other non-military funding options available. Advising these students on their financing options is vital to their ultimate success. Transparency is crucial here, too; financial aid advisors must clearly and completely explain all tuition charges and other fees that may be imposed.
Seeking Feedback
Most importantly, staff, faculty and administrators must treat military and veteran students with respect and patience. Actively listening to their needs (which is something we should do with all students) will give us the insight into how we can best serve this growing population on our campuses.
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