The University of Wyoming is offering a new course this fall semester, planned specifically for veterans. It is likely that larger numbers of veterans will be attending college with the benefits of the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill and the University is doing all they can to accommodate veterans as students. The Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 became law in June of the same year and the provisions of the original bill went into effect August 2009.

Thanks to a task force of University faculty, community and state partners and help from the Wyoming Veterans Commission, UW was able to open the new Veterans Services Center in September of 2010. It is often difficult for civilians, both students and professors to truly understand the frustrations and struggles of returning servicemen. The Veterans Services Center and specific courses aim to smooth the transition and provide a physical place as well as a community of support for those who have served.

The course coordinators, Air Force Lt. Colonels Steve Barrett and Cam Wright, will help students address the challenges of changing lifestyles and make a plan for a successful future in any field. Because of the more immediate nature of military education, traditional college courses sometimes seem less rewarding or less useful in comparison. Similarly, after living a highly structured routine with orders and strict rules, it can be difficult to adjust to the relaxed atmosphere of college life. The course is a short nine weeks and the curriculum is focused and to the point. Students will get the facts and the tools to go to work on their own education right away.

There are many servicemen and women from Wyoming in active duty and the University wants to be certain that there are classes and resources dedicated to helping veterans succeed when they return home.

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