By Dave Masaitis
In Motion Staff Writer
Veterans have been an integral part of the fabric of the American population since the formation of the nation, but perhaps not everyone, especially students, are aware of that.
Starting in 1754 — with soldiers from the French and Indian War, who later fought in the American Revolution — veterans have filled leadership roles in business and government in every generation since. These Americans signed a blank check to the American people, payable with the ultimate price, up and to and including their own lives. Their time and experiences within the military helped shape them as adults and citizens, but earning their place within that subculture was not without challenges.
Veterans who opt to return to college after service are often facing acute challenges, beginning with enrollment.
Four-year Navy veterans, David Owens of Homestead and Jerry Wright of Port Orange, offer insight into the obstacles they have faced and how the military prepared them to overcome them.
Owens said his academic journey began with enrollment at Daytona State College. Despite the arduous process, he learned to navigate admissions procedures while coordinating enrollment information with the Department of Veteran Affairs.
Wright corroborated these difficulties, but both men agreed that the Veteran Center on campus is an invaluable resource for resolving such issues as efficiently as possible. Both veterans have also found challenges within re-adapting to language barriers, as they transitioned from the vernacular of service members and learned to communicate within the academic community.
However, both also spoke about how the professional learning community within the military better prepared them for their transition. They learned a valuable work ethic and study skills within the disciplined classrooms of the U.S. Navy. They also agreed that they were able to utilize their experiences in the Navy to enter the classrooms of DSC with more professionalism and confidence than a number of their civilian peers.
Wright quipped, “Veterans show up ready to learn. You want it more.”
Editor’s Note: The Rally Point is a new monthly column that focuses on building relationships between veterans and civilians, as well as publicizing issues and accomplishments of our military service members. If you have an idea for the column, contact Dave at david_masaitis@daytonastate.edu.