UMSL Student Veterans' First Stop
The UMSL Veterans Center aims to be the first-stop resource for services including admissions support, GI Bill advising and certification, academic support, and networking opportunities with local military-friendly employers. From the initial transition into college, throughout students’ time on campus, and even during the transition into the workplace, UMSL is dedicated to ensuring military-connected students have access to the resources they need.
The Veterans Center is not just another office. The 1,100 sq. ft. student lounge within the center has a never-empty coffee pot, comfortable chairs, and tables, TVs, and computers. Student veterans can study, relax, socialize with other veterans, or just drop in for a free cup of coffee. The Veterans Center is a home base to gather socially or study—it is an indispensable resource for UMSL student veterans.
Support
The model for the Veterans Center focuses on connecting students to UMSL resources and supports, rather than recreating them in the center. This is intentional in that it helps connect the students to the University rather than them “bunkering up” at the Veterans Center and not engaging with the rest of campus. The Center will:
- Process Veteran Affairs/Department of Defense/State/Federal education benefits for military-connected students
- Serve as a central point of contact for all military-connected students for any questions or issues they may have
- Create and implement events for student veterans
- Train and educate staff/faculty on working with military/veterans on a college campus
- Assist Admissions in the recruitment and enrollment of military/veteran students
- Maintain student lounge/space and manage VA work-study staff
- Seek funding/Apply for grants for mission-related initiatives
- Manage First Year Experiences courses MVS 1100 Veterans Transition Seminar
- Stay connected to the STL veteran network
