| Postsecondary educational degrees and certificates are vital for individuals and communities for the overall betterment of our nation's economy. Military students and veterans are pursuing postsecondary education at the highest rates ever seen in United States history; however, they have the lowest rates of degree completion. The purpose of the qualitative study was to ask military students in a northwest private university to describe their college experience and what resources are needed to help them transition into college and to be successful by completing their chosen certificate or degree. The three research questions lead to the factors guiding the research; resources, programs, and services. The participants were selected by being enrolled at the university between July 2014 through April 2015. Twenty-four military and veteran students completed the survey. The qualitative method was chosen for the study because it allows the researcher to get detailed experiences from the participants. The theoretical framework was based on Schlossberg's 4S's Transition Model in which ten themes emerged from the data analysis. Financial support, flexible schedules, and lack of respect were obstacles; while training, mentoring, and support are needed and not currently provided by the university. The military students discussed receiving great support and understanding from the university Veterans Services Officer but also suggested additional military academic advisors to be a liaison with faculty. There is relatively little research on resources needed by military students as they transition from military to college life and the results from this study are similar to earlier research. However, colleges and universities need to continue future research as the demographics of the military students will change therefore, their needs will continually change on a local, state and national level. Administrators and leadership need to remember there is no one-size fits all when developing programs, services, and resources; therefore, communication and the request for feedback is essential. |
