Listen Up, Soldier!

For veteran's returning to Planet College or attempting to further their education, Planet College can be more than a bit of culture shock. Compared to surviving fire fights, and roadside bombs not to mention the often barely organized insanity that is the American Military the culture of higher education can seem down right trivial. The concerns of students who have no military background often feel exaggerated. This is all in your perspective. Moving from a war zone or at least a war culture to a place where the next big party is the major student concern can be discouraging.

This is to be expected.

The shift in emphasis is overwhelming for veterans at times. While there are commonly resources on campus for veterans, often soldiers transitioning to civilian life will feel no one can understand. In fact, this is probably true. The business of most universities is preparing students for a world far different than the military. This can take some getting used to. If you are not the type of person who commonly ask for help it might be time to re-evaluate your tactics.

Asking for help is often the last thing a veteran wants to do. No one wants to be seen as the soldier who can't handle it. But this is civilian life and it is ok to ask for help. So, if you are feeling a little distressed or confused. Try the veterans affairs, try a classmate or call a buddy. It is ok to ask for help.

Dismissed!

Before you go back read this.

If you're Summer is dragging along and you're seriously considering not going back to school this fall consider this.


While on Planet College You have learned more than you are aware of and you now know more about you, about living, about school and about life than you currently appreciate.

So think about what you might not have learned and skills you might not have acquired had you not attempted Planet College.

Whether you go back in the Fall or not realize now you have learned a lot. If school has gotten too frustrating making a list of your options and making a simple plan of action based on your experiences can be the most useful next step in your career, whether it is on Planet College or back on Earth.