Abstract

The transition from one life to another is hardly ever easy. From job to job, house to house, or state to state, a new beginning can often be difficult as change can often be seen as an uncomfortable experience. The same goes for United States veterans and their transition from the military to a civilian life. While the transition has been described by many as a new, refreshing change of pace, the experience does not come without difficulties. Psychological problems, social anxiety, and physiological changes are just a few of the side effects of moving to the civilian world. Additionally, these men and women come home and discover that jobs do not come as easily as they once did years ago. Often times a college education is necessary to start a new career in today’s workforce. Continuing an education can be one of the most difficult tasks for former military members, because many of them have not been in a school system for years, if not decades. This project will bring light to the transition from the military to an institution of higher learning, along with how veterans, universities, and communities can work together to achieve success. First, this thesis will cover the transition from military to civilian life, along with any mental, physical, and social issues that come along with it. Second, this work will discuss the problems veterans face in their college experience and how universities can assist them. Last, this project will highlight what the military can do to ease the transition to civilian life and how veterans can prepare themselves for the journey through higher education.

Semester/Year of Award

Fall 2016

Mentor

Chad S. Foster

Mentor Professional Affiliation

Safety, Security, and Emergency Management

Access Options

Restricted Access Thesis

Document Type

Bachelor Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Scholars

Degree Level

Bachelor's

Department

Safety, Security, and Emergency Management

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