After I registered for my first semester at Rutgers-Camden I was directed to the Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA) for further information that would add to my success while earning my degree. I was greeted by Fred Davis, Director of Rutgers-Camden Veteran Affairs and Joshua Piccoli, Student work-study who gave me a personal tour of the campus. I was given a Rutgers-Veteran hat, a binder and other items that I found useful for my classes. I thought it was amazing how well the veterans were treated on campus as I had not seen that at two other colleges I had attended in New Jersey. I knew that I could go to the office for any help I needed and felt as though I was fully supported with any needs I had.
During the two years I spent on campus, I experienced a comradery similar to what I had with my fellow soldiers while in the Army. Having a veteran lounge provided an environment to congregate with others that shared similar experiences specific to military life. Fred and the Student Veteran Club arranged events, trainings and presentations to connect us with resources that set us up for success once we graduate. As a result, I began working for Soldier On shortly after I completed my bachelor’s degree in Social Work which was a direct result of networking through the OVA. Three years later I am a supervisor with the same organization and absolutely love what I do, working with veterans who are experiencing homelessness. I have also returned to gain my master’s degree in Social Work and am proud to be a part of the Rutgers student veteran population once again.
Highlights of the Rutgers-Camden OVA:
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Veteran education benefit support
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Comradery from other veterans
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Welcome packet (includes items such as a hat and binder)
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Workshops and trainings just for student veterans
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Fun trips, activities and volunteer opportunities
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Student veteran club (SV@RC)
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Fred will advocate for any veteran who needs it and for any reason on campus
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VA Work-study positions
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Scholarship opportunities
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Veteran lounge (includes computers and free printing as well as a refrigerator and coffee maker)
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Personal tour around campus upon your first visit
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Many accreditations to include Best College for Vets, Troops to Teachers, Military Friendly Schools and most recently the first Purple Heart University in New Jersey.
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Most importantly, you will make friends for life!
Tina A. Mikes (U.S. Army)