Veterans in Crisis–The Problem and the Possible Solution

Veterans across the country have had major problems obtaining a job because the majority of skills that were acquired through our military service do not translate into the civilian sector. The GI Bill has been a great tool in obtaining a quality education but a lot of Veterans that go back to college have had serious issues transitioning into the conservative model of learning. Some end up dropping out, not due to incompetence, but due to not being interested in what they are studying.

More often than not, the programs that they do choose are out of necessity rather than interest and when and if they get their degree, they know nothing more than before the start of the program. When I was in the service, I learned more about a wide variety of subjects by doing and gaining experience than by sitting in a traditional classroom.

Some would argue, the amount of responsibility that is given to soldiers on a daily basis rivals a lot of responsibilities that are given to Senior Managers and Chief Executive Officers. They are the most highly adaptable citizens of the United States of America and too often, we forget and ignore their potential because of various constraints and general misunderstanding.

I believe the experience that all military service members receive while in past or current service should automatically transfer to a four year degree and be rewarded on the completion of their term of service. This option ensures that upon exit, he or she will have the experience as well as a bachelor’s degree upon entering the civilian workforce. This will make Veterans more marketable for positions he or she may be interested in and will greatly contribute towards the economic growth of the United States of America.

Tony Roberts served with Headquarters Company, TF 1-501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, located in Fort Richardson, Alaska. He deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from 2003-2005.

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