Common Questions and Concerns among Student Veterans
Q. “I have so much military experience, I thought college would be an easy adjustment. Instead, I’m struggling.”
Many returning veterans face adjustment issues of various kinds. Studies show that student veterans can struggle with school administration, academic performance, disabilities, and social relationships.
Q. “How can I make my transition from military to student life easier?”
- Consider starting slow. Take a light course load at first to ease your transition. Make sure you schedule yourself breaks when studying. Study with a partner if possible.
- Reach out. Introduce yourself to your professors and tell them you are a veteran. Most college campuses have veterans clubs where student veterans can connect. Get involved in student activities that help you become part of the campus community.
- Recognize signs of stress in yourself, and maintain daily habits that help you cope with stress such as exercise, meditation, or other hobbies.
- Take advantage of your schools academic counseling, tutoring, and mentor-ship services.
- Many veterans are asked questions about their service, sometimes in public or inappropriate settings. Know how you’d answer these questions ahead of time. Decline to talk about things that make you feel uncomfortable
Q. “What kind of issues should I watch out for when I go to school?
- Many veterans find that they have trouble relating to the topics covered in their classrooms. The content covered in their curriculum may seem less relevant to the real world than their military experience. This can lead to feelings of isolation.
- Alcohol and drug use is often present in student communities, and may lead to poor academic performance, problems with relationships, and your work.
- Problems with memory and concentration are common in student veterans. It may be hard to study for tests, focus on material, or pay attention in class.
Q. “I’m enrolled in care at the VA, but I’d still like to go to the student health center”
Any enrolled student, including our veteran students may receive services at California Community College Student Health Services.
Q. “Does private health insurance such as student insurance make me ineligible for health care at the VA?”
Carrying private insurance does not disqualify a Veteran from accessing VA healthcare. In fact, the VA is required to bill private insurance for non-service related conditions. If the VA bills your private insurance, you will not be responsible for any unpaid balance that your insurance does not cover.
Q. “I’m a female veteran. Does the VA healthcare system have services for me?”
Every VA medical center has a Women Veteran’s Program Manager who is designated to advise and advocate for women veterans. The VA offers women’s primary care services such as cervical cancer screening, breast cancer screening, birth control, preconception counseling, HPV vaccination, and menopausal support. The VA also offers mental health services designed specifically for women, and have a program for Military Sexual Trauma.
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