From Soldier to Student

Who am I? Why am I here?
Who are you? Why are you here?
What do you hope to learn?

Who are they?

• Student Veterans are older, and many are minorities. 
• In 2010, active duty and veterans represented 5% of college students.
• 400,000 veterans enrolled in institutions of higher education, SP2012. 
• 7.7 BILLION in educational funds in FY 2011

Who are they?

• Women make up 15% of the military.
• In 2009, 27% of students with military experience were women.
• 2.2 million troops deployed to Iraq & Afghanistan. 800,000 multiple tours.
• Between 14-20% have developed symptoms of PTSD, TBI, or depression.

10 Things You Should Know

• They are a diverse group. As diverse as the US is.
• They never see themselves as victims.
• They can feel very alone on campus.
• They may not be aware of minor TBI injuries.
• There are things NOT to say to them.

10 things (continued)

• Female vets suffer silently.
• Many vets would like to return to combat.
• Combat trauma isn't a mental illness.
• To succeed, they need our support & compassion.
• They are one of our most valuable untapped resources.

Orientation
Advising
Transition Programs

What does your campus do to help veterans integrate into academic life?

Preparing faculty to teach veterans.

Working with disability services.

Supporting families.

Building Community

Additional Support Services?

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