With upwards of 1 million soldiers separating from service in the coming years, the civilian community will likely have to adapt in a wide variety of ways. This is especially true on college campuses where many servicemembers are expected to take advantage of their education benefits and pursue new degrees, certification or licenses. Dr. Jill Biden, who spearheads the Joining Forces initiative with first lady Michelle Obama, recently paid a visit to George Washington University to see how its officials are preparing for the expected influx of veterans.
One of the biggest programs on campus geared toward helping out servicemembers is led by the student group GW Vets. Biden also met with representatives from The Rendering Project, which relies on the experiences of veteran students to create works of art. After discussing such initiatives with students, Biden says she feels encouraged that schools around the country can do the same.
"As a teacher for more than 30 years, I always say that what I see in my classroom is inspiring," she wrote on the White House's website. "Many of my students are veterans who are hoping additional education will help move them ahead in their careers."
Making it easier for veterans to enter the classroom may help lower the unemployment rate among post-9/11 veterans, which currently stands a bit higher than the civilian population.