Where to Connect and Share Experiences Online with Fellow Student Veterans
Student veterans bring a wealth of experience to higher education. At Golden Gate University (GGU), your voice and perspective enrich the learning environment. Connecting with others who understand the military-to-civilian transition can make your academic journey even more rewarding. Fortunately, GGU offers opportunities to communicate in person and online, alongside many other platforms where you can engage with veterans nationwide.
Connecting at Golden Gate University
At GGU, the Military and Veterans Student Services Office is dedicated to helping you succeed. The university's online and hybrid formats are ideal for working veterans or those juggling family and career commitments.
Here are specific ways to connect:
1. GGU Student Veterans of America
These groups are open to military-affiliated students. They provide a space to share experiences, offer support, and network. Meetings often include discussions on challenges unique to veterans, like career transitions and managing VA benefits.
2. Online Discussion Boards
Many GGU classes use discussion boards as part of their online coursework. These forums can be a great way to connect with classmates, especially other veterans. Share your insights, ask for advice, or find others with similar goals.
3. LinkedIn Alumni Network
GGU has a robust LinkedIn presence. Joining the university's alumni groups or creating a post about your military background can lead to meaningful connections. Fellow students or alumni often have advice about navigating civilian careers after military service.
4. Advising Appointments
Schedule time with a GGU Veterans Advisor. These advisors can connect you with other student veterans or organizations that align with your interests.
Contact details are available on GGU's Military and Veterans Services page.
Expanding to Broader Online Communities
Beyond GGU, there's a vast network of online resources for student veterans. Here's where to look:
Student Veterans of America (SVA)
SVA supports student veterans at over 1,500 campuses. Even if your school doesn't have an SVA chapter, their national website offers virtual events, webinars, and forums.
SVA connects you with other veterans who are navigating education. You can access scholarships, mentorship programs, and advocacy resources. Explore their events and online communities.
Subreddits like [r/Veterans] or [r/StudentVeterans] allow anonymous sharing of experiences, questions, and advice.
These forums provide candid conversations and advice from people in your shoes. Create a free Reddit account and search for these subreddits. Participate by asking questions or joining discussions.
Facebook Groups
Search for groups like "Student Veterans Network" or ones specific to your branch of service. Many schools, including GGU, have official Facebook pages where veterans can engage with peers.
Facebook groups are easy to join and offer real-time interaction. Use the Facebook search bar to find groups that fit your needs. Request to join and introduce yourself.
LinkedIn groups, such as the Veterans Mentor Network, connect you with professionals who can help you achieve your career and academic goals.
You can network with employers who value your military background while finding student veterans with similar ambitions. Create a LinkedIn profile, search for groups, and engage with posts or messaging members. LinkedIn offers veterans a year of its LinkedIn Premium and LinkedIn Learning subscriptions for free!
Why Connecting Online Matters
Transitioning from the military to college life can feel isolating. Building a network of peers who understand your experiences helps you:
Navigate challenges like VA benefits and course loads.
Gain emotional support during stressful periods.
Access career advice tailored to veterans.
Celebrate your wins with people who get it.
Whether you connect at GGU or in broader communities, these relationships can make all the difference.
Start small. Introduce yourself in a discussion board, join a LinkedIn group, or post in a Facebook community. These connections will help you succeed in school, career, and beyond. At Golden Gate University, you're part of a family. Take advantage of these resources to make your academic journey as connected and meaningful as possible.