A. Ray Olpin University Union

Often referred to as the “one-stop shop” for all military-affiliated students, including veterans, currently serving personnel, and their families, the Veterans Support Center (VSC) can be found on the fourth floor of the A. Ray Olpin University Union. The VSC offers a variety of services that can benefit students in a multitude of ways. One of the most utilized services is free academic tutoring and peer mentoring for any individuals seeking out the assistance of acclimating to the university environment. This can be accompanied by a free cup of coffee, with the VSC going through about ten pounds a week. Individuals can also utilize services such as medical benefits counseling, educational benefits processing (G.I. Bill), and even yoga taught by a student veteran. The VSC is also a hub for special events, including private career fairs for both veterans and off-campus companies. VSC houses a part-time career coach that focuses on two things specifically. Helping veterans translate their skills from their military service to a civilian resume, VSC also hosts “brown bag” lunch seminars where representatives from various companies discuss what they are looking for in potential candidates.

Special events also include the VSC’s annual Veteran’s Day Commemoration, which just recently took place for the 20^th year. This commemoration included a week full of events, including a Veterans Day recognition at the home football game where 40,000 individuals were in attendance. Continuing, about 500+ individuals attended this year’s commemoration where they could hear the stories of veterans sharing their valor on and off the battlefield. New this year, a Wall of Honor was placed in the lobby of the A. Ray Olpin Union for individuals to write on, expressing their appreciation for service members and their families. VSC would also like to express recognition for Pepsi, who recently provided resources to supplement current initiatives that are taking place at the center.

Finally, VSC also is a social space where individuals are more than welcome to enjoy the free coffee/tea, conversation, and the surplus of swag that the office has supplied. The center also possesses a small scholarship capability, where individuals may apply for a scholarship from the emergency financial aid fund. This would allow a veteran individual to utilize financial assistance if they could not travel for a familial commitment, their car breaks down and they need to repair it, etc. If veteran students are wanting to get more involved within the center, the VSC houses the Student Veterans Association, a student group involved with both campus and community outreach.

For more information about the VSC, its beneficial services, upcoming events, and associated student groups, please visit their website:
veteranscenter.utah.edu