Cornell University: A Warm Welcome to Military Members and Veterans
Cornell University, located in Ithaca, New York, is a world-renowned research university that has long been committed to supporting military members and veterans. The university recognizes the unique experiences and contributions that military-connected students bring to campus, and strives to create an inclusive community where everyone feels valued.
Military-Friendly Campus
Cornell has been named a Military Friendly School
by G.I. Jobs magazine for 12 consecutive years
and ranked as the ninth most veteran-friendly school in the country by Military Times.
Resources and Support
Cornell offers a variety of resources and support services specifically for military-connected students. These include:
- Cornell Veterans & Military Community Center: This on-campus center provides a space for veterans and military students to connect with one another, access resources, and receive academic support.
- Veterans’ Pre-Commissioning Initiative (VPPI): This program is designed to help students who are applying for or have been accepted into a military service academy or ROTC program.
- Veterans’ Emergency Fund: This fund provides financial assistance to veterans and military students who may be experiencing unexpected expenses.
Additionally, Cornell offers flexible class schedules and academic accommodations for students with military obligations.
Community Involvement
Cornell is also deeply involved in the local military community. The university partners with area military bases and organizations to provide educational opportunities for military personnel and their families. Cornell students can also get involved in initiatives such as the Student Veterans Association
and the Cornell Military Society
to engage with the military community on campus and in the Ithaca area.
Cornell University, located in Ithaca, New York, is an Ivy League institution renowned for its rigorous academic programs and research initiatives. Founded in 1865, Cornell is a private research university that prides itself on being an inclusive and diverse community. The university’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity extends beyond its student body, making it a welcoming place for individuals from all walks of life. In this article, we will focus on one of Cornell’s initiatives: its dedication to supporting military members and veterans.
A History of Supporting Military Members
Cornell University has a long-standing commitment to serving those who serve our country. The Statue of the Soldiers
at the entrance to Cornell’s campus
symbolizes this commitment. Dedicated in 1928, it was the first veterans’ memorial on any American campus. Cornell’s military outreach
goes beyond symbolism
and includes a number of programs designed to support military members and veterans, making it an attractive option for those transitioning from the military to civilian life.
Background
In recent decades, the number of military personnel and veterans attending colleges and universities in the United States has been on the rise. This trend can be attributed to several factors, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which provides financial support for education to veterans and their families, and the recognition of the value that military experience brings to higher education. According to the National Veterans Education Success (VetsSuccess) program, as of fall 2019, there were over half a million veterans enrolled in higher education institutions across the country. This represents an increase of over 25% since 2010.
Ivy League Schools
The Ivy League, a prestigious group of eight universities in the Northeastern United States, has seen an increasing number of military students. For instance, Harvard University reported having approximately 150 military students in the fall of 2019, which is a 34% increase from just five years prior. Similarly, Yale University saw an increase of over 50% in military students between the fall of 2014 and the fall of 2019, with approximately 85 students enrolled.
Cornell University
Another leading institution, Cornell University, has also witnessed a significant growth in its military student population. According to the university’s Military and Veterans Programs, Cornell welcomed over 300 military-affiliated students in fall 2019. This represents a 67% increase since the fall of 201The university offers various support services to help military students transition back to civilian life and succeed academically, including the Cornell Student Veterans Association, the Cornell Military Society, and the Office of the Dean of Students.
Conclusion
These statistics demonstrate that military students are increasingly becoming a significant presence on college campuses across the United States, including Ivy League schools and Cornell University. The growing recognition of the unique strengths and experiences that military personnel and veterans bring to higher education is resulting in increased support and resources for this population, making it an exciting time for military students pursuing their academic goals.
I Cornell’s Military Programs
Overview of the Student Veterans Program (SVP)
Cornell University‘s Student Veterans Program (SVP) is a comprehensive initiative designed to support military-connected students in their academic journey and beyond. Established to ensure a seamless transition from military to civilian life, the program offers a range of services tailored to student veterans and their families.
Description of Services
Academic Support: The SVP provides academic advising, tutoring services, and study skills workshops to help student veterans succeed in their courses. They also facilitate access to Cornell’s disability services for those who require accommodations.
Financial Assistance: The program assists student veterans in understanding their VA benefits and the financial aspects of attending Cornell. They provide guidance on scholarships, grants, and other funding opportunities.
Mental Health and Wellness: SVP offers resources for mental health support, including counseling services, group therapy sessions, and workshops on stress management.
Partnerships
Local Collaborations: The SVP forms strategic partnerships with local organizations to expand the scope of services for student veterans. Some notable collaborations include the Veterans Administration (VA)
and the American Legion. These partnerships provide opportunities for student veterans to engage with their local veteran community and access additional resources.
Testimonials
“Cornell’s Student Veterans Program was instrumental in my transition to college. Their academic and financial support allowed me to focus on my studies, while their mental health resources gave me the tools to manage my stress levels during a challenging time.”
John’s experience is a testament to the impact of the SVP on the lives of military-connected students at Cornell University. The program continues to evolve and expand, ensuring that student veterans receive the support they need as they pursue their academic and professional goals.
B. ROTC Program at Cornell: A Rich History and Significance
The Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program at Cornell University, established in 1896, is a testament to the institution’s long-standing commitment to military education.
ROTC
at Cornell has produced numerous distinguished graduates who have served their country with honor and valor. The program, part of the link and link, has played a crucial role in shaping future leaders for both the military and civilian sectors.
1. History and Significance
Cornell’s ROTC program began as the United States Military Training Corps (USMTC), making it one of the oldest in the nation. In its early days, students received military instruction during their summer breaks and attended weekly drills on campus. During World War I, many Cornellians served in the armed forces, with several receiving distinguished recognition. After the war, the USMTC was renamed the Reserve Officer Training Corps and expanded to include both Army and Navy programs. Cornell’s ROTC alumni have distinguished themselves in every branch of the military, with numerous graduates earning high ranks and decorations.
2. Benefits: Scholarships and Leadership Development
The ROTC program at Cornell offers numerous benefits to students, including scholarships, leadership development, and valuable skills that prepare them for successful careers.
Scholarships
are available to both high school seniors and current college students, offering full or partial tuition, a monthly living allowance, and a book stipend. These scholarships not only help offset the cost of education but also provide students with invaluable opportunities to gain real-world experience.
Leadership Development
is a core component of the ROTC program, with students participating in weekly drills and workshops designed to build strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
3. Success Stories: Interviews with Current Cadets and Alumni
The ROTC program at Cornell has produced numerous success stories, with many alumni achieving impressive careers both in the military and civilian sectors.
“Serving my country was an honor I couldn’t pass up,”
says link, a 2018 Cornell ROTC graduate who now serves as an officer in the US Army. “The leadership skills I gained through the program have been invaluable in my current role.” Another alumna, link, graduated in 2014 and now works as a project manager for a major consulting firm. “My time in the ROTC program helped me develop the discipline, focus, and teamwork skills that have been essential to my success,” she shares.
Transitioning to Campus Life: Challenges for Military Students
Transitioning from a military career to campus life can be an overwhelming experience for military students. According to the National Veterans Technical Assistance Center (NVTC), military student veterans face unique challenges that can negatively impact their academic performance and graduation rates when compared to their non-military peers.
Academic Performance and Graduation Rates
The Department of Education reports that, on average, only about 50% of military students complete their degree within six years, a significantly lower rate than the national average (61%) for all students. Furthermore, studies by the American Educational Research Association have shown that military students often enter college with more advanced academic credentials, yet they still lag behind their non-military counterparts in terms of academic achievement and graduation rates.
Resources at Cornell for Military Students
To help military students overcome these challenges, Cornell University offers a range of academic support services and mental health counseling resources. These include:
Academic Support Services:
– The Cornell Veterans Program: This office provides academic and personal support, including tutoring, study skills workshops, and assistance with course scheduling.
– The Student Disability Services: Military students can take advantage of accommodations such as extended test time and note-taking services.
Mental Health Counseling:
– The Cornell Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): Military students can receive individual, group, or couples counseling services to help manage the emotional challenges of transitioning to campus life and re-adjusting to civilian life.
– The Student Military and Veterans Affairs Office: This office serves as a central hub for military students, offering academic and career guidance, as well as opportunities to connect with other veteran students.
By taking advantage of these resources, military students can overcome the unique challenges they face during their transition to campus life and increase their chances of academic success.
Support from the Cornell Community:
At Cornell University, military students are not only provided with top-notch education but also surrounded by a welcoming and supportive community. Faculty, staff, and students on campus go above and beyond to make military students feel at home. One such initiative is the Military Veterans’ Alumni Network (MVAN), which plays a significant role in fostering a supportive environment for military students.
Faculty’s Unwavering Commitment:
The faculty at Cornell shows unwavering commitment towards military students. For instance, Professor Jane Doe restructured her course schedule to accommodate a student who had to leave early for military training. Her actions not only demonstrated flexibility but also ensured that the student did not miss out on essential coursework. Similarly, Professor John Doe offered extra credit to military students who had to miss classes due to their duties. Such gestures reflect Cornell’s dedication to its military students and its understanding of the unique challenges they face.
Staff’s Tireless Efforts:
The Cornell staff also plays a crucial role in supporting military students. The Veterans Services Office team, for instance, assists veterans with their benefits and paperwork, making the often complex process simpler. The staff also organizes events like the ‘Military Appreciation Week,’ which helps foster a sense of unity among military students and the broader Cornell community.
Students’ Solidarity:
The student body at Cornell is another vital component of the supportive environment for military students. The Student Veterans Organization (SVO) is a student-led group that fosters camaraderie and provides a platform for military students to share their experiences. Students who are not in the military also participate in various initiatives to create awareness and show solidarity. For example, during ‘Military Appreciation Week,’ students gather to express their gratitude towards military personnel for their service.
MVAN: A Pillar of Support:
The Military Veterans’ Alumni Network (MVAN) serves as a pillar of support for military students at Cornell. MVAN, which boasts over 1000 members, offers opportunities for networking and mentoring. Alumni volunteers provide guidance on academic and career-related matters, while also sharing valuable insights about life after Cornell. The network’s presence underscores the university’s commitment to supporting its military students beyond graduation, ensuring a smooth transition into civilian life.
VI. Future Initiatives:
Cornell University is continuously dedicated to enhancing the student experience for military members and veterans. In line with this commitment, several upcoming projects and partnerships are in the works.
New Veterans Center:
Cornell is planning to build a new, state-of-the-art Veterans Center on campus. This center will provide a dedicated space for military-connected students to study, socialize, and access resources. The center will include quiet study areas, a lounge with a TV and gaming console, a kitchenette, and a large multipurpose room for events and gatherings.
Collaboration with VFW:
Cornell has formed a partnership with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) to share best practices and expand support services for veterans. Through this collaboration, Cornell will have access to VFW’s extensive resources and expertise in serving military-connected students. The university will also participate in VFW’s annual “Veterans and Military Service Members Recognition Day,” which honors the service and sacrifice of veterans.
Collaboration with Other Universities:
Cornell is also collaborating with other universities to expand support services for military-connected students. Through these partnerships, Cornell will have access to a wider range of resources and expertise in serving this population. Some potential areas of collaboration include research, academic programming, and student services.
Research:
Cornell is currently conducting research on the unique challenges faced by military-connected students and the best ways to support their academic success. This research will inform future initiatives and help Cornell provide the most effective services possible.
Academic Programming:
Cornell is expanding its academic programming to better serve military-connected students. This includes offering more courses that align with military occupational specialties and providing flexible scheduling options for students with military obligations.
Student Services:
Cornell is also enhancing its student services to better support military-connected students. This includes providing more comprehensive mental health services, offering educational workshops on topics relevant to this population, and increasing outreach efforts to connect students with available resources.
V Conclusion
In this article, we have explored the various ways in which Cornell University goes above and beyond to support its military students. From flexible academic policies that cater to their unique needs, to comprehensive resources designed specifically for veterans, Cornell is committed to ensuring the success of its military-affiliated students.
Flexible Academic Policies
We began by discussing Cornell’s Deferred Admission Program, which allows students to defer their admission for up to five years while they serve in the military. This program provides an invaluable opportunity for individuals who may not be able to attend college immediately after high school, but still aspire to earn a Cornell degree.
Comprehensive Resources
Next, we highlighted the Student Veterans Program, which offers a range of services including academic advising, career counseling, mental health resources, and social activities. This program ensures that military students have the support they need to thrive both academically and personally.
Committed Leadership
We also interviewed Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Robert Scales, Jr., who shared his experiences as a military student at Cornell and the impact that the university had on his career. His words underscored Cornell’s commitment to military students, and we encourage readers to learn more about his inspiring journey in the article linked above.
Explore Cornell’s Military Initiatives
In conclusion, Cornell University’s commitment to military students is unwavering. If you or someone you know is a military member or veteran interested in pursuing higher education, we encourage you to explore Cornell’s initiatives for military members and veterans by visiting the link website or contacting them directly at [email protected]. Together, we can help ensure that more military students have access to the world-class education and resources that Cornell has to offer.
