Higher Education as a Tool for Veterans in Transition: Battling the Challenges

Overview & Synopsis

The study's purpose is twofold and examines (a) major challenges veterans may encounter while enrolled in higher education, and (b) veterans' perceptions of utilizing higher education as a transitional tool to the civilian workforce. A qualitative design was employed in this study. Data were collected utilizing three focus groups (N = 11). The findings concerning veterans' challenges in pursuit of higher education are the following: (a) us versus them, (b) difference in the learning environment, (c) institutional barriers, and (d) networking. The current study provides an additional discussion platform for educators, institutions of higher education, and veterans affairs departments--it is a potential opportunity to design learning environments, policies, and practices that will enhance the overall process of veterans' transitions and create environments in higher education that are truly veteran-friendly.