Adapting and overcoming are two virtues that are key to success.

You can say that both students and soldiers share these qualities.

Diligence is vital, and while some may say that adjusting to civilian and student life is too much to handle, what better place to acquire diligence and life experience than the military?

Military training helps soldiers grow accustomed to structure and organization, and deal with extremely stressful situations.

Everyone knows that feeling of staying up late the night before finals, scrambling to cram as much knowledge in your head as possible because you didn’t have the discipline to study.

For a veteran, discipline is routine.

Although soldiers are equipped with these traits, some may find it difficult returning to civilian life, especially when faced with service related physical and mental disabilities.

Some may find the completion of desired courses and the joining of clubs on campus to be therapeutic.

Making connections with teachers and counselors combined with social interaction amongst students creates an outlet for stress or anxiety.

Money can also prove to be an issue for returning soldiers who are supporting families and paying bills.

Because of these very issues the U.S. government offers the GI Bill benefits.

These benefits can cover all tuition and fees for public schools.

For those attending a private or more expensive college, the Yellow Ribbon Program is available to help with additional funds.

Aside from these, there are many grants veterans can take advantage of such as disabled veterans and active duty grants.

Although the life of a returning veteran adapting to higher education may seem like a difficult task, it is nothing a soldier can’t handle.

Built to cope in harsh surroundings when things don’t go according to plan, our veterans remain calm and perform unlike no other.