Activities
-Transfer
Orientation
-Freshmen
Orientation-Research Veterans’ Services at Peer Institutions
-Learn military jargon and paperwork
-Informally interview G. V. “Sonny” Montgomery Center for America’s Veterans staff members
Though my experience thus far has been concentrated on Orientation, I
would say I have learned a lot. The learning curve in regards to jargon and
paperwork is steep; I am slowly, but surely learning about the technical
aspects of working with a veterans’ center. Much of this comes from paying
attention to conversations staff members have with students, asking follow-up
questions and researching more information on my own. Observation and shadowing
are truly great in this department. One of the staff members who works the
front desk is training to be more knowledgeable with paperwork; I am happy to
know that those who work in the office are still learning as well. Though I
know each student is different, the differences seem to be exacerbated when
dealing with the governmental paperwork involved with earning military
benefits. Chapter 33, which is the new Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, is the most
varying of all the military benefits packages. The conversations and
consultations with these students are very personalized and can take quite a
bit of time. Because of this two full-time staff members are always present at
Orientation with more of the staff coming to afternoon sessions because the
office has closed. Even then, there can be a wait to speak with someone. The
setup we have at Orientation is also a result of this time-consuming, one on
one process. The G. V. “Sonny” Montgomery Center for America’s Veterans has set
up in the corner of the second floor, utilizing the bench, tables and stools
when consulting with students and families. Being able to get the personal
story of each student is important. I am very impressed with how personable
each and every staff member is. I am taking this opportunity to encourage
myself to grow in this capacity. As my comfort level with the content of my
practicum increases, so does my relationship-facilitation with students.
The best part of my week was when I was able to offer insight and answer
questions based on my experiences with Housing and Residence Life. In a
department that is very technical and jargon-based, I have found it a slow
process to learn the ins and outs. It truly illustrates how the G. V. “Sonny”
Montgomery Center for America’s Veterans aims to holistically address the
student, not just financially.
While in the office, I spend my time researching. My research focuses on
two different things. The first is to research Mississippi State University
peer institutions to learn about the benefits and amenities offered to
veterans, servicemembers, dependants and survivors. The other is to research
the Green Zone program and programs akin to it and where it is and is not
offered. Thus far, my work has fueled my desire to work with this
underrepresented and at-risk population.
I was surprised and proud to learn that my site
supervisor, Ken McRae, presented at an Aurora Foundation event. He was one of
four speakers scheduled and was the only one who presented on what a veterans’
center on a university campus has to offer. Through my research and
conversations with Ken, I have found that Mississippi State is one of the
leaders in this emerging department within Student Affairs. Other schools have
come to learn about the G. V. “Sonny” Montgomery Center for America’s Veterans
and how it operates with the intent of using is as the model for which they
create a center on their campus. Mr. McRae has shared that he hopes I learn
that same information throughout my practicum so I would be able to create a veterans’
center on any college campus. I am
fortunate to have this experience. Below is a link to a NPR program from last year dedicated to specific obstacles veterans encounter when attending college. I found it during my research on what services MSU peer institutions offer. It was listed as a resource on the veterans' center webpage. I found it enlightening. I hope you do, too.
Program Teaches Vets How to Survive the Classroom
Kate, I so appreciate your experience and reflection. Last year, when I was doing an informal internship at UA (with Wahnee), I was housed in a room on campus. Two of my neighbors that summer were both veterans. I remember seeing a huge yellow Hummer parked in the handicap spot and judging really harshly. The other one had a sport cycle with all kinds of custom UA-themed paint and details. Again, I judged. One night, coming back from a day in the office, I ran into them as they were hanging out on one's patio area. I stood there and talked to them for over 2 hours. I learned about how they were paying for college, the business that the older veteran owned and was still running on the coast, their take on media coverage of veterans and war, and their thoughts on students who take advantage of higher education. I was humbled and embarrassed at myself for judging so harshly when I didn't even know them. Yeah, they were able-bodied and seemingly healthy, but they had been through so much more than I could ever fathom. It really gave me, a steadfast pacifist, an honest look into the world of veterans. They were getting the most out of their military benefits and striving to connect to campus. If we had more undergraduate students with the dedication and self-motivation these guys had, it would be a dream.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to hear more about what you learn. I am now aware of how important is it that MSU has such a strong veteran's support system. Thank you for sharing your experience!