Veterans at LBCC can now find assistance with services and programs inside the new Veteran Service Office, nestled inside the A building’s main office area.
Many military personnel have difficulty transitioning back into civilian life, but this new office provides aids to help smooth the transition.
The Veteran Service Office offers priority registration, expedited paperwork for Admissions and Financial Aid, assistance with GI Benefits, and free tutoring.
The on-campus VetSuccess program has an official employee from the department of Veterans Assistants working in-house to assist with all VA benefits, both academic and non academic.
Three veteran counselors are also available to help with educational planning, transfer help, or financial counseling.
This office is manned by a rotating staff of student veterans, so there is always somebody there to give a helping hand.
Jonathan Lopez, who served in the Marines, said he remembers getting out. Lopez agrees that it’s not always easy transitioning out of the military. He feels that because strong bonds are made with others serving in the same field, that leaving the comfort of what was familiar feels like starting from scratch.
“That’s what our services are for, helping veterans find their new direction and connections in civilian life,” explained Lopez.
Mental wellness is very important for veterans, so LBCC has partnered with U.S.VETS for personal counseling, on or off campus.
Andrew Abertin, a student veteran said, “I received so much help here, they pointed me in the right direction, and even helped me get some benefits that I didn’t think I would qualify for.”
These services don’t just end with the veterans however, as they are also available for dependents of veterans.
Tim Potter is a veteran student staff member that is available for free tutoring in writing, literature, history, and anthropology.
“I have gotten so much help from this office, that I wanted to give back to my fellow veterans, and I’ve won the Jacaranda award three times,” conveyed Potter.
There are many workshops and presentations throughout the year to external resources in the community.
Visiting the veterans office is a wise idea as there are benefits that many might not know they qualify for.