Understanding the Needs of Student Veterans
Student veterans bring a wealth of experience to campus, but they also face challenges most students never encounter. As a Green Zone ally, understanding those challenges — and knowing how to respond — is central to your role.
Disability Awareness
Many student veterans are experiencing a disability for the first time and may not know that campus support services exist. At the same time, some veterans are reluctant to self-identify as having a disability. The reasons vary: social stigma, concern about how it might be perceived by peers, or awareness that disclosing a disability could affect future military service for those planning to return.
What Green Zone allies should do:
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Do not ask or suggest that a student has a disability. Instead, ask about the challenges they are experiencing and let that guide which resources you offer.
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Become familiar with the Disability Student Success Center (DSSC) and the services available there.
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If a student asks about disability support, provide DSSC contact information and offer to help them schedule an appointment if needed.
Starting the Conversation
An open, low-pressure conversation is often the most valuable thing a Green Zone ally can offer. Ask about the student's goals, listen to their frustrations, and share relevant resources as the conversation naturally calls for it.
Questions that can open a productive dialogue:
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What branch of service were you in?
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How long were you in the military?
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What was your job in the military?
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Where were you stationed?
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How has your experience at APSU been so far?
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How are you and your family doing?
Do not ask whether a veteran has killed someone or how they were injured.
Campus Resources to Share
When a conversation points toward a specific need, these referrals are your strongest tools:
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ArmyIgnitED — Tuition assistance for active-duty, National Guard, and Reserve students
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Newton Military Family Resource Center (NMFRC) — 931-221-1685
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Military Affiliated Professionals Program (MAPP) — Career support and professional development
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Disability Student Success Center (DSSC) — Accessibility services
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Student Financial Aid — FAFSA, grants, and scholarships
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Boyd Health Services & Counseling — Primary care and mental health support
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Veterans Education Benefits Office (VEBO) — VA benefits certification: 931-221-7760
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VetSuccess On Campus (VSOC) — On-site VA counselor: 615-983-4354
Key Principles for Green Zone Allies
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Student veterans are a diverse population with varied experiences. Avoid treating them as a monolith.
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Trust takes time. Be consistent, and always follow through on what you say you will do.
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If a student openly shares their military experiences, listen fully. Do not interrupt, minimize, or offer political opinions about military service or conflict.
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Your job is not to have all the answers — it's to help students find the people who do.
For more information, visit the Green Zone program page or contact the Newton Military Family Resource Center at 931-221-1685 or NMFRC@apsu.edu.
