By Katie Land, news editor
Oakland University has been distinguished as a “military friendly school” by GI Jobs magazine for 2010, an honor reserved for the top 15 percent of all universities, colleges and trade schools across the nation.
This ranking is based on the policies, efforts and results used to recruit and retain military and veteran students on campus. Oakland will be included in the September 2009 Guide to Military Friendly Schools.
“This distinction sends a clear message to veterans that we are committed to them and appreciate their service to our country,” said Glenn McIntosh, dean and assistant vice president for Student Affairs. “With the services and support that we offer, a veteran who chooses OU knows that we are dedicated to their success.”
With the passage of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, tens of billions of dollars in tuition money are now available and have added to the competition among colleges to recruit veterans to their campus.
“This list is especially important now because the recently enacted Post-9/11 GI Bill has given veterans virtually unlimited financial means to go to school,” said Rich McCormack, G.I. Jobs publisher. “Veterans can now enroll in any school, provided they’re academically qualified. So schools are clamoring for them like never before. Veterans need a trusted friend to help them decide where to get educated. The Military Friendly Schools list is that trusted friend.”
An example of Oakland’s commitment can be found in the new Veteran Support Services Office opening this fall. The center will serve as a hub of information for new and returning veteran students regarding admissions, academic support, counseling, scholarships and grants, veteran benefits, university and VA forms and outreach programs throughout the year.
“The Veteran Support Services Office is very important because it will be staffed by a veteran and current student who can help incoming veterans make the transition to the university,” said Ann Besaw, Veteran Affairs certifying official in the registrar’s office. “It is a central place that a veteran can go for information concerning the university.”
Veteran students bring a positive reputation for being dedicated students and confident peers. Educators have found them to be mature and focused leaders that support the university community, according to McIntosh.
“Veterans have acquired a unique life experience through their service in the military,” McIntosh explained. “Chances are they have traveled and met with many people of diverse backgrounds. They bring a valuable dynamic to the university, particularly in the classroom.”
G.I. Jobs provides a resource for the eight million military members and veterans seeking a new school or job. General topics include tips to find a school, build a successful resume, career and how to prepare for a recruiter interview.
The military friendly school list was compiled through extensive research and a poll of more than 7,000 schools nationwide. The criteria and scoring process was developed with an Academic Advisory Committee consisting of educators and administrators from Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Toledo, Duquesne University, Coastline Community College and Lincoln Technical Institute.
For more information about OU’s Veteran Support Services Office, read a
News @ OU feature story or visit the
Web site.
