Finding Community as a Veteran in College: Tommy’s Story

Tommy served four years in the US Army before enrolling in school at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI. Transitioning into civilian life was no walk in the park. From struggling to find a new support system to interacting with other students who often failed to understand him, Tommy often felt isolated and as if he didn’t belong.
Fortunately, Tommy found the Peer Advisors for Veteran Education on campus, which provided him with resources to help him better cope with his mental health and meet other veterans on campus who understand what he has been through. This sense of community is just what Tommy needed to overcome his obstacles. He emphasizes the importance of ‘having people you can connect with’ as part of the journey to better health.
Tommy’s advice to college veterans struggling with their mental wellness is that reaching out is a sign of strength. Learn more about the support programs aiding student veterans like Tommy:
Peer Advisors for Veteran Education (PAVE): m-span.org/pave/
Veterans & Military Services: vets.umich.edu/