Simple tips for veterans going back to school
Veterans For Peace Chapter 104 Evansville is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of black veterans. We are pleased to publish this informative post by guest blogger Ed Carter.
The transition from military to civilian life is chock-full of challenges. You must get used to a different routine and lifestyle, create a budget for new expenses, and figure out what career path to take, to name a few. One thing that many veterans benefit from is going back to school. Taking courses as a veteran comes with many potential benefits, and earning a degree can improve your career prospects exponentially.
That said, there are some strategies to keep in mind if you choose to go back to school that will help you succeed during your studies and after you graduate. Here are a few practical tips for any veteran who is considering returning to school after service.
Look Into Online College
First of all, know that some serious perks come with taking online classes. Not only can it save you money, but it also provides you with a lot of flexibility and convenience since you can study remotely and work at your own pace (as long as you meet deadlines).
And in most cases, you can earn whatever type of degree you want online. For instance, you can get an online degree in computer science, business management, and nursing—all of which can help you forge a promising career path.
Know Your G.I. Entitlements
One of the best parts of going back to school as a veteran is that you have the G.I. bill on your side. This provides you with up to 36 months of benefits for paying for tuition. It also includes a monthly housing allowance (MHA), which is usually comparable to the basic allowance for housing (BAH) received by E-5 military members with dependents. These are just a couple of examples of how the G.I. Bill can help you go to school, so make sure you’re staying up to date on what your benefits are.
Choose Part-Time or Full-Time
You will need to determine whether taking classes part-time or full-time is best for your situation. Going to school full-time will allow you to complete your program faster and get the most out of your G.I. benefits. Taking classes part-time will leave you more time for working a job, spending time with family and friends, and doing other activities. Assess your lifestyle to figure out the best path forward.
Research Financial Aid Options
G.I. benefits may not fully cover your tuition costs, depending on what school you attend. The good news is that you will likely be eligible for a grant. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out how much assistance you can get. And look into getting grants and scholarships from institutions like the Pat Tillman Foundation, DAV, American Veterans, and the American Legion.
Use Your School Resources
It seems like there’s always an important decision to make when you’re in college. Leaning on your academic advisor’s expertise and the services provided by your school’s career center is essential. Your academic advisor can help you navigate challenges and accomplish your goals in school. Your school’s career center can help you prepare for life after you graduate. Take advantage of these resources.
Returning to school after military service is an excellent way to start building a future for yourself (and your family). Remember to consider pursuing an online degree, and learn about what you’re entitled to under the G.I. bill. Decide whether to study part-time or full-time and seek additional financial assistance if necessary. Finally, stay connected with your academic advisor and career center to help navigate challenges that lie ahead.
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A former financial planner, Ed Carter helps those with disabilities plan for their future. Regardless of their nature, severity, or longevity, physical and mental disabilities cause stress and confusion when it comes to financial planning. Ed created Able Futures to help people with disabilities prepare for a secure and stable financial future.