The transition from veteran to student can be a challenge for some. It may be hard to relate to classmates who do not understand military experiences. Additionally, veteran students may have difficulty concentrating on coursework or find it stressful to balance academics with civilian life.
CSUN is committed to giving every student the opportunity to excel. The Veterans Resource Center (VRC) helps veterans, regardless of branch or service, with professional and academic counseling, mental health and wellness services, emergency financial help, professional services and connections to outside resources. Located in the University Student Union, the VRC is a place for veteran students to support each other and their family members.
Veterans begin their academic journey at CSUN at Student Veteran Orientation, where they receive guidance and support with transitioning from military service to academic success. Veterans often drop by the VRC for weekly coffee and refreshments to meet and mingle with other vets, or stop in for a quiet place to study after hours. The Elevate Professional Development program is a unique opportunity for student veterans to interact with student veterans who have graduated, are working in their post-college fields, and are ready to mentor the next generation.
Upon graduation, the VRC honors and recognizes veteran graduates in front of their peers, friends and family members during a memorable dinner and awards ceremony. Other programming includes a Family Fun Day for student veterans’ family members; the VITA Tax Prep program offering free tax preparation; and connections to other resources, including financial aid services and disability assistance.
The VRC also provides financial assistance to CSUN student veterans, reservists and members of the National Guard who are facing an unforeseen hardship that could negatively impact their educational status. These funds are used on a discretionary basis to provide emergency relief for student veterans that need housing, food, transportation, school supplies, and other necessary expenses to help ensure their continued enrollment and academic success.
Veteran Resource Center Scholarship Endowment
Student Veterans often benefit from receiving scholarships while pursuing their degrees at CSUN. Some may not qualify for grants or other financial assistance, or they may face financial hardship due to the loss or delay of their GI Bill. Either case can lead to a struggle that makes it challenging to focus on academics and coursework.
When a student veteran receives a scholarship, their face glows, and their shoulders relax. That is because most of these veterans carry a lot of weight on their shoulders. Their pack is dropped, but life after service has just begun. Many have families or have come from different states. Their financial support is based on their service to this nation with the assistance of the GI Bill, but that might not be enough.
Our veterans put their lives on the line to serve our country. Your gift to the Veterans Resource Center ensures this important support system can continue to serve our veterans as they have served us, assisting them in their academic goals.
Click the "Donate" button above to give to one of these funds in support of the Veterans Resource Center and CSUN's veteran student population.
