06/30/2022
Today is my last day working with veterans at Adams State. I learned a lot over the several years I have been here, so I would like to take this time to pass on some words of wisdom. Keep in mind, this is based on the typical behaviors I have seen from veterans.
1. Don't be impetuous. Going back to school after military service is an adjustment a lot of veterans are not prepared for. It is a lot harder than they expect it to be, and when they hit a bump in the road, they throw hands up and say "this is clearly not for me". They then look at drastic changes to see if that can improve their situation; such as, changing their major, switching to trade school, switching to online only classes, or just quitting and finding a job.
Take things easy, and when life hits you after your first test, don't quit, evaluate your approach to studying, ask your professor/classmates for help, and readjust for the next exam. You don't need to trash everything because one exam went badly.
2. Don't isolate yourself. Being the old guy in the class isn't fun, but you need to interact with your classmates. Building social connections will help you when things get tough, and they can help you network for later in life.
3. Teach what you know to the younger generations. Learning how to pass on your knowledge to others is a great way to reintegrate into society. This doesn't have to be anything terribly complex. Teaching someone how to shoot a pistol or how to prepare for hike in the mountains can mean a lot someone. I believe a lot of veterans could find a good purpose by becoming a mentor.
4. Talk to the other vets in school. They went through what you are going through now. They can help you adjust to school for success. They can also become that social group you will need to hang out with after classes end.
5. Stop the bad habits. Most of us get wrapped up in the drinking culture of the military. Those habits will only hurt you as you move back into civilian life. Take a hard look at yourself, try to be healthy, do something other than drink on the weekends, and find a hobby to occupy you on your free time. If you live in Colorado, you should explore the mountains; learn to fish, hunt, hike a 14er, or learn to ski/snowboard.
6. Speak your mind but be tactful. You are welcome to have a difference of opinion during class activities. Some vets just try to interrupt the professor during lecture. This isn't the best time or place. It also doesn't help if you start off by insulting someone.
7. When you need help you need to ask for help. When things get bad, for whatever reason, you need admit it's time for help. We can put you in touch with a tutor if you need it. We can get a counselor to meet with you. We can sit down and talk about a new major for your degree. However, there is nothing anyone can do for you if you don't ask for help. Most of us vets who graduated from college, had to ask for help.
I hope some of you find this insightful. All of our journeys are a little different, but we run into the same problems.
