| Recent policy changes have again expanded the role of women serving in the armed forces. As a result, more women are joining the military, which results in more women also departing the military. Many of these women are deciding to use the improved educational benefits provided by the Post-9/11 GI Bill and enroll in postsecondary education. This qualitative case study examined the transition of experience of female student veterans into postsecondary education. The intent of this study was to understand this transition from the perspective of the female student veterans. Having participants from all levels of transition paints a picture detailing their motivations, obstacles, supports, and any advice that could be offered to future transitioning female veterans. Using Schlossberg's (1981, 1984) adult transition theory as the foundation of this study and also incorporating the adaptive military model, and self-determination theory, themes emerged that aid in understanding why and how these female student veterans work toward degree attainment. Through the detailed and rich stories of these women, postsecondary institutions could use these insights to better prepare for the predicted increase of female student veterans on campuses throughout this nation. |
