I initially came into contact with the Office of Military and Veterans Affairs (OMVA) when I enrolled as a business student in the Fall 2014 semester. I spoke with Mr. Fred Davis about the basics of using my benefits and he assisted me in the steps that would ensure that the process went smoothly each semester. He also personally gave me a tour of the campus, including briefing me on the variety of programs that Rutgers-Camden has for its student-veterans. I was genuinely amazed at the range of services for veterans and when I attended the Veterans Orientation event, which was the most impressive orientation I’ve ever experienced.
Since I’ve been a student at Rutgers, Fred Davis has personally introduced me and many others to several veteran- friendly recruiters and employers that were hiring in the Greater Philadelphia Region. Through the OMVA, I was also able to make professional connections and begin personal relationships that have expanded my professional network. An additional benefit was being introduced to professional networkers, like Suzanne Garber, who gave us tips on how to use our network at the executive level.
Additionally, Fred Davis personally offered me a work-study opportunity which allowed me to work in the OMVA while pursuing my B.S. and MBA. This opportunity meant so much to me and allowed me to earn additional income while maintaining the flexibility to study and avoid employment gaps on my resume. In this role, I was able to not only gain exposure by working with other internal members of the university, but I was also able to speak with and network with local and state political leaders.
During this time, I was additionally able to gain some insight into the OMVA operations. I personally witnessed a number of student veterans come to the office to get assistance with financial issues, employment issues, mental health issues, and other things that you would never expect. There were literally situations where students were about to be homeless and Fred Davis was able to use his personal network to get these veterans financial resources and a place to live.
It really is an understatement when I say that the OMVA has been an invaluable resource to my fellow veterans and me and it only confirms that Rutgers University-Camden takes its commitment to veterans very seriously. Since I have been out of the service, I have met a number of business and other organizations that talk about how serious they are about helping veterans. I can tell you that, in my experience, it is mostly all talk. With this understanding, it is so refreshing to see and experience a program like the OMVA at Rutgers-Camden and professionals like Mr. Fred Davis, who are genuine about supporting student-veterans and their families. I’ve seen it first-hand and he literally sticks his neck out for veterans in a way that I have never seen before. It was an honor to be a part of this program and I will forever be grateful for the incredible experience that I’ve had at Rutgers-Camden.