Service to School Stories

What does it take to build a career in consulting after military service? In this follow-up conversation, Alex Dawson returns to the Service to School Stories podcast to share how his journey evolved from pursuing an MBA to launching a career in consulting. Drawing on his own experiences, Alex offers an inside look at the consulting industry and what veterans need to know to successfully navigate the transition.

The conversation explores the different types of consulting, how firms evaluate candidates, and strategies for preparing for case interviews and recruitment. Alex also discusses the value of MBA programs, choosing the right school, translating military experience into consulting strengths, and building a career with long-term growth in mind. Whether you're considering business school, exploring consulting, or planning your next career move after the military, this episode provides practical guidance for veterans looking to chart their own path.

00:00 Introduction to Service to School Stories

02:36 Transitioning from Military to Consulting

06:16 Understanding Consulting: What It Is

10:06 What Firms Look for in Candidates

12:20 Differentiating Factors for Veterans in Consulting

18:01 Preparing for Case Interviews

22:30 The Importance of Internships in Consulting

29:35 Translating Military Experience for Consulting

31:26 Debunking Common Misconceptions about Consulting

34:01 Final Thoughts on Consulting Careers

Resources

Four years ago, Terren Wise joined the S2S Stories podcast shortly after being accepted to Brown University, sharing his excitement for the journey ahead. Now, as he prepares to graduate with an engineering degree, Terren returns to reflect on how that journey unfolded and the experiences that shaped him along the way.

In this full-circle conversation, Terren shares what he learned transitioning from Navy submariner to Brown student, how he found community and purpose on campus, and why college became about much more than earning a degree. From choosing the right major and exploring new career paths to building relationships with classmates, faculty, and alumni, Terren offers an honest look at the growth that can happen after admission. Whether you're preparing to apply to college or wondering what life as a student veteran is really like, this episode offers valuable perspective on making the most of every opportunity higher education has to offer.

00:00 Introduction to Terren's Journey

02:44 Reflections on College Experience

07:05 Finding Community at Brown

09:08 Navigating Campus Life as a Veteran

12:40 The Importance of Personal Growth

16:21 Choosing the Right Major

20:38 Favorite Classes and Life Skills

24:19 Post-Graduation Plans and Opportunities

29:13 Advice for Active Duty and Applicants

Resources 

Is community college the right path for veterans pursuing a college degree? In this episode, admissions leaders from Vassar College and Princeton University discuss the realities of community college as a pathway to highly selective institutions, challenging common misconceptions and offering practical guidance for veterans navigating the transfer process.

The conversation explores how admissions offices evaluate transfer applicants, including transfer credits, course selection, academic rigor, letters of recommendation, and the role of online versus in-person coursework. The guests, Colleen Mallet & Alex Bustin, also share advice for veterans who may not have recent academic experience and discuss how community college can serve as a powerful foundation for academic success and future transfer opportunities. Whether you're considering community college, preparing a transfer application, or exploring your educational options after military service, this episode provides valuable insights from admissions professionals who review veteran applications firsthand.

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Community College for Veterans

01:29 Personal Journeys and the Value of Community College

02:13 Meet the Admissions Experts from Vassar and Princeton

06:59 Common Misconceptions About Community College

09:03 Evolution of Community College Perception

12:15 Evaluating Academic Proof and Transcripts

17:34 Assessing Applicants Without Recent Academic Experience

22:27 Online vs In-Person Courses for Transfer Applicants

28:26 Maximizing Community College Experience for Admissions

34:03 Choosing Courses to Strengthen Your Application

40:13 Balancing GPA and Course Rigor

46:23 Community College as a Strength in Transfer Applications

50:30 Common Mistakes in Transfer Applications

54:07 Resources and Support for Transfer Applicants

58:55 Final Thoughts: Community College as a Strategic Pathway

Resources:

In this episode, student veteran Kyle Keen shares his journey from military service to Stanford University and reflects on the challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning to college as a veteran. From navigating a new academic environment to finding his place on campus, Kyle discusses the experiences that shaped his path and the lessons he learned along the way.

The conversation explores the importance of building community, developing leadership skills, and creating spaces where veterans can connect and support one another. Kyle shares practical insights on balancing academics with campus involvement, fostering meaningful relationships, and helping other veterans thrive in higher education. Whether you're preparing to start college or looking for ways to become more engaged on campus, this episode offers valuable perspectives on building community and making the most of your student experience.

00:00 Building Community on Campus

03:08 Transitioning from Military to Academia

05:58 Choosing the Right Institution

08:51 Experiencing Stanford as a Veteran

11:21 Leadership in the Veteran Community

14:31 Engaging with Fellow Veterans

17:08 Navigating Academic Rigor and Mental Health

19:44 Collaboration with University Staff

22:19 Continuing the Legacy of Info Sessions

25:21 Challenges in Building Community

27:56 Advice for New Veteran Students

30:29 Balancing Leadership and Academics

32:55 Future Plans Beyond Stanford

Resources:

What does it mean to find community as a woman veteran in higher education? In this episode, Haley Champion and Susan McLernon, co-founders of the Princeton Women's Veterans Group, share their journeys from military service to the classrooms of Princeton and the experiences that shaped their transitions along the way.

Together, they discuss the unique challenges and opportunities women veterans encounter in higher education, the importance of creating spaces where veterans can connect and support one another, and the role advocacy plays in improving representation on campus. Through their personal stories, Haley and Susan offer insight into building community, navigating life after the military, and helping ensure that women veterans are seen, supported, and empowered to succeed in academia.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions

01:22 Personal Journeys to Princeton

04:28 Military Backgrounds and Transition Experiences

11:31 Expectations and Challenges as Women Veterans in Ivy League

16:21 Unique Perspectives and Contributions on Campus

26:43 Creating Supportive Communities for Women Veterans

36:12 Forming the Women Veterans Group at Princeton

44:56 Advice for Future Women Veterans in Higher Education

52:22 Final Reflections and Words of Encouragement

Resources:

Many veterans focus on getting into college, but one of the most important steps toward a successful civilian career happens while you're still a student. In this episode, Whitney Cason sits down with Mike Brown, Army veteran and Director of The Prince Family Veterans Resource Center at Villanova University, to discuss why internships can be a game-changer for student veterans transitioning from military service to higher education and the workforce. Mike shares how internships help veterans gain experience, explore career paths, and build professional networks that can shape future opportunities.

The conversation explores the importance of planning early, identifying meaningful internship opportunities, and leveraging alumni networks to support career growth. Mike also addresses common misconceptions about internships and offers practical advice for veterans looking to maximize their education and position themselves for long-term success after graduation.

00:00 The Importance of Internships for Veterans

07:14 Understanding the Transition from Military to College

11:02 Navigating the Internship Landscape

15:24 Real-Life Impact of Internships

20:49 Leveraging Alumni Networks

24:53 Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

26:07 Key Advice for Veterans on Internships

Resources: 

In this episode, Emma chats with Marina Varela, manager of the Student Veteran Resource Center at Diablo Valley College, about how community colleges can provide veterans with a strong foundation for higher education through personalized support, transfer pathways, and veteran-focused resources. She discusses the important role Veteran Resource Centers (VRCs) play in helping student veterans build community, navigate benefits, and access support both inside and outside the classroom.

The conversation also explores the value of early transfer planning, campus-wide collaborations that support veteran success, and common myths surrounding community colleges. Whether you're considering starting at a community college or planning your next step toward a four-year institution, this episode offers practical insights for making the most of the journey.

00:00 Introduction to Community Colleges for Veterans

01:17 Support Systems in Community Colleges

04:02 Navigating the Transition to Higher Education

06:41 The Importance of Outreach and Connection

09:32 Collaboration Across Campus Departments

12:16 Academic Advising and Transfer Planning

22:19 The Power of Mentorship

23:43 Navigating Community College for UCs and CSUs

28:16 Academic Counseling and Support Systems

33:48 Dispelling Myths About Community College

39:22 Final Advice for Veterans in Community College

Resources 

In this episode, Sydney Matthes and Annie Behari from Service to School discuss how military service members and veterans can prepare for higher education. They cover college application timelines & nuances specific to veterans, evaluating schools based on military benefits and goals, using tuition assistance and transfer credits effectively, storytelling strategies to maximize college admissions success, and the benefits of preparing esrly for a smooth transition to higher education.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Service to School

05:12 Understanding the Service to School Timeline

10:06 Preparing for Higher Education: Early Steps

15:12 Navigating Academic Credits and Course Selection

19:54 Crafting Your Narrative: Military Experience and Admissions

25:08 Final Thoughts and Resources for Future Students

Resources

In this episode of Service to School Stories, Emma Parish, Director of Student Advising, sits down with S2S applicant & Ambassador pair Denver Barrows and Cayde Bruce to explore the power of peer mentorship in the veteran-to-college journey.

They dig into how strong mentor–mentee relationships are built, why they matter, and the real impact they can have on your admissions strategy and confidence. Denver and Cayde share what makes mentorship work, the trends they’re seeing across the veteran community, and the qualities that set great mentors apart.

You’ll also hear honest insights about navigating the unique challenges military-affiliated applicants face and how having someone in your corner can change everything.

The episode closes with practical guidance for both mentors and mentees, plus inspiring reminders of why mentorship is one of the most transformative parts of the Service to School experience.

00:00 Introduction to Mentorship in Education

05:06 The Impact of Mentorship on College Admissions

11:10 Building a Network Through Mentorship

14:04 Maintaining Relationships Beyond College Applications

16:37 Trends in Mentorship and Education for Veterans

20:30 Qualities of an Effective Mentor

24:46 Navigating Feedback in Mentorship

28:43 The Unique Value of Mentorship for Military Applicants

31:20 Final Thoughts and Reflections

34:28 S2S Stories Podcast Outro Video.mp4

Additional Resources: 

In this powerful episode of Service to School Stories, host Whitney Cason sits down with Army veteran Nate Tiegs and admissions expert Nick Fritz for an honest, deeply human conversation about what it really takes for veterans to transition into higher education.

Nate opens up about the parts of his journey that rarely make it into polished application essays — facing homelessness, battling bureaucracy, and learning to advocate for himself. His story is raw, real, and a reminder that resilience isn’t theoretical for veterans; it’s lived. Nick brings the admissions perspective, breaking down what colleges actually look for in veteran applicants, why vulnerability matters, and how maturity and self-awareness can become your strongest assets in a holistic review process.

Together, Nate and Nick reveal how authenticity, courage, and a willingness to tell your full story can transform the admissions experience — and why veterans are uniquely prepared to succeed in the classroom and beyond. This episode is a must-listen for any veteran preparing to apply to college, anyone supporting veterans through the transition, or anyone who needs a reminder that your story has power.

00:00 Navigating the Transition from Military to Civilian Life

02:42 The Role of Education in Personal Growth

05:45 Overcoming Bureaucratic Challenges in Admissions

08:26 The Importance of Holistic Admissions Processes

11:03 Writing Essays: Sharing Difficult Experiences

13:56 Demonstrating Resilience Through Personal Narratives

16:47 The Power of Authenticity in Admissions Essays

19:42 Advice for Veterans on Writing Their Stories

22:32 Final Thoughts on the Admissions Journey

Additional resources: 

In this episode of Service to School Stories, Whitney sits down with Javier Kazmierczak — a former U.S. Army Special Forces soldier whose path from the military to higher education is anything but ordinary.

Javier opens up about the real challenges behind his transition, from navigating the college admissions maze to figuring out what “fit” truly means for veterans stepping onto campus for the first time. He shares how mentorship, community, and the right support system — including Service to School — helped him chart a path forward with confidence and clarity.

Whether he’s breaking down application strategies, talking through the power of networking, or reflecting on his surprise moments as a student at Chicago Booth, Javier brings honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom to the conversation.

This episode is packed with insights for any veteran considering higher education — and a reminder that your military experience isn’t just relevant in the classroom, it’s a strength.

00:00 From Military to Academia: Javier's Journey

03:09 Navigating Higher Education: The Role of Service to School

06:04 Choosing the Right School: The Importance of Fit

08:52 Overcoming Challenges: Transitioning from Military to College

12:00 The Application Process: Strategies and Insights

14:42 Building Relationships: The Value of Faculty Support

17:35 Planning for the Future: Pursuing an MBA and Beyond

22:35 Strategic Major Selection and Backwards Planning

27:05 Choosing the Right MBA Program

28:46 Navigating the Application Process

32:59 Academic and Personal Surprises at Booth

34:38 The Veteran Community at Booth

36:44 Lessons Learned from Military to Academia

38:40 Adding Value as a Veteran in Academia

41:14 Encouragement for Veterans Considering Higher Education

Additional Resources:

Discover how Brown University is opening doors for veterans. In this episode, Sydney sits down with Bailey DiOrio and Mac Manning to break down Brown’s veteran-focused admissions process, the power of community on campus, and the programs that help student veterans thrive from day one. You’ll hear how holistic review works, what support systems actually look like, and why veterans are making a real impact in the classroom. They also share insider advice, career insights, and what every veteran should know before applying. If you’re considering college after service, this is a must-listen.

00:00 Introduction to Brown University's Veteran Support Programs

02:57 Navigating the Admissions Process for Veteran Applicants

05:47 Understanding Brown's Unique Veteran Application

08:47 Holistic Review in Admissions: What Matters?

12:06 The Role of Community in Veteran Success

14:51 The Office of Military Affiliate Students: A Support System

17:56 Innovative Programs for Veteran Integration

20:57 The Impact of Veterans in the Classroom

24:08 Career Outcomes and Alumni Network for Veterans

26:55 Final Advice for Prospective Veteran Students

Additional Resources: 

In this episode of Service to School Stories, host Whitney Cason sits down with Luke Hixson, a U.S. Navy veteran whose journey from the fleet to the Ivy League and now medical school proves that there’s no single path to success after service.

Luke shares how he went from treating Marines as a Navy corpsman to studying neuroscience at Princeton University, and now training to become a physician at Rutgers Medical School. He opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome, failing the MCAT the first time, and finding strength in mentorship and community.

This conversation dives deep into what it means to transition, to persevere, and to keep your purpose front and center, even when the path gets tough. Whether you’re thinking about college, grad school, or med school after the military, Luke’s story is a powerful reminder that your service prepared you for more than you realize.

01:10 – From Tennessee to the Navy

03:00 – “I Was Good at School — I Just Didn’t Like It”

04:50 – Applying to Princeton as a First-Year Veteran

06:20 – Showing Maturity Through Essays

07:45 – Choosing Princeton and Planning for Med School

09:25 – Lining Up the Path to Medicine

11:10 – Early Assurance and the Road to Rutgers

15:30 – The Toughest Challenge: Failing the MCAT

17:15 – Adjusting to Life at Princeton

20:00 – Building a Social Life (and Staying Humble)

23:45 – Dating as a Veteran on Campus

26:20 – Inside the Early Assurance Process

31:45 – Transitioning to Med School

34:30 – Building a New Community at Rutgers

36:45 – Advice for Veterans Pursuing Medicine

38:50 – Closing Reflections

Additional Resources: 

Transferring to a new college can feel like starting over — especially for veterans.

In this episode of Service to School Stories, transfer admissions expert Jamie Smith breaks down what every student veteran needs to know about making a smooth transition from community college to a four-year university.

She shares insider advice on credit transfer, articulation agreements, and how to build a plan that sets you up for success. Most importantly, Jamie talks about the growing need for colleges to better support transfers — and how veterans can advocate for themselves through every step of the process. If you’re thinking about taking your next academic step, this episode is your roadmap.

00:00 Introduction to Transfer Admissions and Support

02:57 Understanding the Transfer Process for Veterans

05:55 Challenges Faced by Student Veterans in Transfer Applications

08:54 Navigating Community College and Transfer Pathways

11:44 Articulation Agreements and Their Importance

15:01 Tools for Understanding Transferability of Credits

17:52 The Role of Admissions in Transfer Credit Evaluation

20:54 Advice for Transfer Students and Final Thoughts

Additional Resources: 

In this episode of Service to School Stories, Whitney sits down with Air Force veteran Zach Wright to trace his path from community college to Stanford University. Zach opens up about what it really takes to thrive in higher education after the military — from battling imposter syndrome and finding belonging in the classroom to building meaningful relationships with professors. He shares hard-earned lessons on time management, resilience, and the power of peer support among veterans navigating college life. Zach’s story is proof that with determination and community, your next mission — earning a degree — is absolutely within reach.

00:00 From Military to Academia: Zach's Journey

07:04 Navigating Community College and Future Aspirations

08:12 Choosing Northern Virginia Community College

10:07 Building Relationships with Faculty

11:03 Building Academic Relationships for Success

13:35 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Elite Education

16:44 Navigating the Application Process

19:31 Time Management and Academic Success

22:28 Community and Leadership in Veteran Support

25:21 Long-Term Goals and Supporting Fellow Veterans

28:17 Advice for Future Students and Veterans

Additional Resources: 

In this episode, Sydney and Annie discuss the evolving landscape of college admissions for veteran applicants. They explore trends in academic preparedness, the role of community colleges, the importance of standardized testing, and how veterans can effectively communicate their military experiences in applications. The conversation emphasizes the significance of preparation and the resources available to help veterans succeed in their academic pursuits.

00:00 Introduction to Service to School and Leadership Changes

03:06 Trends in Veteran Applicants and Academic Preparedness

05:55 The Role of Community Colleges in Academic Pathways

09:05 Selecting the Right Community College

11:46 Understanding Transfer Applications and Admissions Outcomes

15:08 The Evolving Landscape of Standardized Testing

18:02 Crafting a Compelling Narrative from Military Experience

20:45 The Importance of Time in Service in Applications

23:46 Success Stories and Admissions Outcomes for Veterans

26:55 Final Advice for Aspiring Applicants

Additional Resources:

In this episode of Service to School Stories, we chat with Dr. Scott Smitson, a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel who transitioned into academia. He discusses the challenges he faced as a military veteran in higher education as well as opportunities, particularly through the Chamberlain Project, which helps place retiring officers in academic settings. Dr. Smitson shares his experiences teaching at various institutions, the differences between liberal arts and public universities, and the importance of mentorship and networking for transitioning service members. He emphasizes the value of military experience in academia and the need for veterans to prepare for the unique culture of higher education.

00:00 From Military to Academia: A Journey of Service

02:49 Strategic Education and International Affairs

03:05 Teaching and Military Experience

04:45 The Chamberlain Project and Its Impact

07:12 Differences in Teaching Environments

10:35 The Role of a Military Strategist in Academia

12:40 Opportunities Provided by the Chamberlain Fellowship

16:01 Advice for Aspiring Chamberlain Fellows

19:07 Future of Academic Work in Politics

22:15 Shaping the Next Generation of Leaders

25:18 Navigating the Cultural Shift to Academia

27:57 Realizing a Passion for Higher Education

Resources: 

In this episode of Service to School Stories, S2S Director of VetLink, Whitney, chats with Kloey Albertson, a veteran and current student veteran at Brown University. Kloey shares her journey from military service to higher education, discussing the challenges she faced during the college admissions process, the importance of community support for female veterans, and her experiences at Brown. She emphasizes the need for female-focused support systems and encourages other veterans to pursue their educational goals without self-doubt. Kloey's story highlights the resilience and leadership skills developed in the military that translate into success in academia.

00:00 — Introduction to Kloey's Journey

01:04 — Kloey's Military Background and Transition to Education

03:17 — Navigating the College Admissions Process

07:47 — Supporting Female Veterans in Higher Education

11:29 — Building Community at Brown University

15:27 — Creating Female-Focused Support Systems

18:24 — Choosing Brown University

21:32 — Career Support and Networking Opportunities

25:27 — Advice for Female Veterans Considering Higher Education

More resources for veterans:

In this episode, we're joined by Kaleth Wright, the 18th Chief Master Sergeant of the US Air Force, who shares his remarkable journey from joining the military on a whim to reaching the highest enlisted rank. In this conversation, Kaleth shares his journey and reflects on the unexpected opportunities that led him to the prestigious position of Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, detailing the unique interview process and the responsibilities of the role. He discusses the challenges faced by enlisted airmen today, including retention issues and the impact of generational differences in the military. He emphasizes the value of seeking diverse perspectives in mentorship and the importance of education in navigating career transitions, encouraging service members to understand their identity beyond the uniform. 

Main Topics

00:00 Introduction to Kaleth Wright's Journey

02:51 Early Military Experience and Challenges

05:57 Education and Career Development

08:46 Mentorship and Its Importance

12:11 Aspiring for Leadership Roles

15:02 Breaking Barriers in Mentorship

18:01 Path to Becoming Chief Master Sergeant

20:58 Unexpected Opportunities and Recognition

25:14 The Unexpected Interview Invitation

30:30 Understanding the Role of Chief Master Sergeant

36:04 Challenges Facing Enlisted Airmen Today

39:49 Bridging the Generational Gap in the Military

43:43 Navigating the Transition from Military to Civilian Life

Additional Resources

In this episode, Alec Emmert interviews Eric Goins, a veteran and current student at Notre Dame pursuing an MBA and a master's in Global Affairs. Eric shares his journey from the Citadel, where he balanced academics, athletics, and military training, to his experiences in the Army, including the challenges he faced in Ranger School. He discusses the importance of resilience, the impact of his military training on his personal growth, and his decision to return to college football while pursuing higher education. Eric shares his unique journey from serving in the Army to pursuing his dream of playing football at Notre Dame. He reflects on the challenges and decisions he faced along the way, including his aspirations to teach and the emotional experience of joining the football team. Eric discusses the transition from being an underdog to playing for a prestigious program and emphasizes the importance of resilience and self-belief in navigating life's challenges.

Main Topics

00:00 Introduction to Eric Goins

02:58 Journey to the Citadel

06:11 Football Experience at the Citadel

08:53 Transitioning to the Army

11:59 Overcoming Adversity in Ranger School

14:59 Branch Detailing and Career Path

17:52 Life Lessons from Military Training

21:07 Decision to Leave the Army and Pursue Education

28:32 Journey to the Army and Football Dreams

32:49 Transitioning to Notre Dame and Teaching Aspirations

34:26 The Decision to Walk-On to Notre Dame Football

40:45 Emotional Journey of Joining the Team

48:53 From Underdog to Goliath: The Notre Dame Experience

54:47 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Reflections

Additional Resources

In this podcast episode, Charles Castelly shares his journey from military service to pursuing an MBA. He discusses his motivations for joining the Army, his experiences during basic training, and the challenges he faced with a medical discharge. Charles reflects on his educational path, the importance of community, and his diverse career experiences, including a sabbatical that allowed him to explore various roles. 

Main Topics

00:00 Introduction to Charles Castelly

02:59 Military Experience and Transition

06:04 Navigating Medical Discharge and Education

08:58 College Journey and Veteran Community

12:02 Career Path and Purpose

17:54 Sabbatical and Personal Growth

22:13 The DJ Journey: Crafting Unique Playlists

24:07 Pursuing Education: A Master's in Finance

24:59 Landing a Government Role: The Path to Development Finance

28:03 Understanding DFC vs. USAID: Investment vs. Aid

30:43 Experiencing Uganda: A Journey of Beauty and Work

31:33 Transitioning to an MBA: Expanding Horizons

34:56 Veteran Community at Smith: Building Connections

38:22 Academics at Smith: Curriculum and Choices

40:55 Extracurricular Engagement: Leadership in Finance Club

42:56 Career Aspirations: Impact Investing and Beyond

Additional Resources

In this conversation, filmmaker Jake Rademacher shares his journey from aspiring military pilot to creating impactful films for veterans. He discusses the making of his film 'Brothers After War', the importance of nuanced storytelling in media representation of the Iraq War, and offers valuable advice for veterans looking to enter the film industry. Rademacher emphasizes the significance of creating one's own material, the role of theater in storytelling, and the need for veterans to check their motivations before pursuing film school. He also highlights the workshops he conducts for veterans and the upcoming streaming release of his film.

Main Topics

00:00 Introduction to Jake Rademacher and His Journey

14:19 The Impact of the Iraq War and Media Representation

20:32 Supporting Veterans in Storytelling and Media

21:25 Veterans in Film: A Unique Perspective

27:54 Navigating Film School: Pros and Cons

30:38 Finding Your Path: Exploring Film Careers

34:05 Resources for Aspiring Veteran Storytellers

39:14 Creating Your Own Opportunities in Storytelling

40:42 Brothers After War: A Film for Veterans

41:45 Encouragement for Veterans in the Industry

Additional Resources

In this podcast episode, Desaree Edwards shares her inspiring journey from a low-income background to serving as a nuclear mechanic in the US Navy. Desaree highlights the importance of leadership and trust within the military, her transition to civilian life, and her pursuit of education at Wesleyan University, where she discovered her passion for neuroscience and human rights advocacy. She also shares her journey to law school, her aspirations in the anti-trafficking field, and offers valuable advice for those navigating their own career paths.

Main Topics

00:00 Introduction to Desiree Edwards

03:11 Journey to the Navy and Submarine Service

06:11 Nuclear Submarine Training Overview

09:10 Deployment Experiences and Challenges

12:07 Qualifying as a Nuclear Mechanic

15:07 Deciding to Transition Out of the Military

18:05 Leadership Lessons from the Submarine Experience

26:04 Restoring Trust in Leadership

29:37 Navigating Academic Choices and Personal Growth

31:25 Building Community as a Female Veteran

35:02 The Experience of Commuting to Campus

37:42 Engaging in Human Rights Advocacy

42:02 Preparing for Law School and Future Aspirations

49:09 Advice for Career Exploration and Growth

Additional Resources

In this podcast episode, Jimmy Hatch, a former Navy SEAL and founder of Spike's Canine Fund, shares his remarkable journey from military service to higher education at Yale. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from combat to civilian life, the importance of mental health, and the profound bond between humans and dogs. Jimmy emphasizes the need for veterans to seek help and the value of education in reshaping perspectives on life and trauma. He shares his journey to Yale, highlighting the self-doubt he faced and how he overcame it. Additionally, he reflects on the transformative power of literature in his life, using it as a means of self-discovery and healing.

**Trigger Warning - suicide, substance abuse, psychiatric institution, sexual assault

Main Topics

(00:05) Introduction to Jimmy Hatch's Journey

(07:31) The Impact of Military Service on Mental Health

(15:44) Navigating Trauma and Seeking Help

(25:54) Transitioning to Higher Education as a Veteran

(26:59) Navigating Transition and Seeking Help

(30:30) The Journey to Yale: Overcoming Self-Doubt

(40:44) Literature as a Lifeline: The Power of Reading

Additional Resources

Whitney Cason, S2S Director of VetLink, takes the reins for a conversation with two of S2S's VetLink partners - Christina Moreland, Associate Director of Admissions and Coordinator of Pipeline Development at Dartmouth, and Evan Shoaf, Senior Assistant Dean of Admissions at Bowdoin. Whitney, Christina, and Evan discuss the unique challenges and opportunities for veteran applicants in the college admissions process, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, personalized support, and community integration for veterans transitioning to academic life. The discussion also covers financial aid options, the significance of building a supportive community, and shares inspiring success stories of veteran students who have thrived in their respective institutions. 

Main Topics

00:00 Introduction to Veteran Admissions Support

08:10 Understanding Financial Aid for Veterans

15:58 Building Community and Support for Veterans

21:49 Success Stories of Veteran Students

30:03 Advice for Veteran Applicants

Additional Resources

Holden Lindblom joined us to share his inspiring journey from struggling in school to thriving at Stanford University. After serving as a forward observer in Afghanistan, he transitioned to academia. Holden discusses the challenges he faced during his military service, his motivation to succeed, and the importance of community college in preparing for top universities. He ultimately chose Stanford for its unique environment and opportunities, and he now co-founded Vetri-Fi, a financial service aimed at empowering veterans with financial literacy and resources.

Main Topics

00:00 From Sweden to Service: A Journey Begins

06:29 Transitioning from Military to Academia

10:20 The Drive to Succeed: Finding Motivation

15:00 Navigating Community College: A Path to Top Universities

20:57 Applying to Elite Schools: Strategies and Insights

26:28 Choosing Stanford: A Life-Changing Decision

30:05 Adapting to Stanford: Academic and Social Integration

35:40 Discovering Passion: The Shift to Startups

40:40 VetraFi: Empowering Veterans Financially

Additional Resources

In this conversation, US Navy veteran Dan Chauvin shares his remarkable journey of resilience and determination in the face of rejection while applying to top MBA programs. Dan discusses his military background, the challenges he faced during the application process, and the importance of seeking help and support from others. He emphasizes the need to tell one's story authentically and the lessons learned from receiving rejections from every school to his acceptance into not one, but SIX prestigious business schools.

Main Topics

00:00 Introduction to Dan Chauvin's Journey

01:22 From Navy EOD to Business School Aspirations

04:18 Overseas Experiences: Syria, Spain, and Bahrain

12:19 Navigating Career Decisions: Military vs. Business School

16:30 Leadership in Crisis: The October 7th Experience

20:58 Applying to Business School: The Journey Begins

23:29 Embracing Failure and Resilience

25:28 The Journey to Business School

30:11 The Importance of Seeking Help

34:43 Navigating Feedback and Perspectives

37:31 Mental Preparation for Reapplication

39:57 Overcoming Rejection: The Journey Begins

47:05 The Road Ahead: Future Aspirations and Goals

Additional Resources

In this podcast episode, Chris Cappy shares his unique journey from being an infantryman in the National Guard to pursuing a career in media and film. Chris reflects on the challenges he faced transitioning back to civilian life and education at NYU after deployment, the importance of storytelling, and the value of education in shaping his career. Chris takes shares his journey from film school to becoming a production assistant at The Daily Show, his evolution into a content creator, the importance of resilience in the face of criticism, and his experiences as a war correspondent in Ukraine. 

Main Topics

• 00:00 Introduction to Chris Cappy

  01:04 Chris's Early Life and Military Journey

  06:03 The Decision to Enlist in the Military

  11:06 Deployment Experience in Iraq

  18:02 Transitioning Back to Civilian Life and Education

  23:31 Navigating NYU and Veteran Identity

  27:09 The Journey from Film School to The Daily Show

  30:37 Transitioning from Comedy to Corporate America

  31:55 The Path to Content Creation

  36:55 Embracing Feedback and Building Resilience

  44:45 Becoming a War Correspondent in Ukraine

  50:16 Advice for Aspiring Creators

Additional Resources

In this podcast episode, Nate Boyer shares his remarkable journey from Green Beret to playing college football at the University of Texas and briefly in the NFL. He discusses his unconventional path, the search for purpose that led him to volunteer in Darfur, and how that experience shaped his decision to join the Army and pursue a career in Special Forces. Nate also reflects on his transition to college life, the challenges of being a walk-on football player, and the importance of showing up and seizing opportunities in life. In this conversation, Nate Boyer shares his journey from military service to the NFL, emphasizing the importance of mindset, setting ambitious goals, and overcoming adversity. He discusses his interactions with Colin Kaepernick regarding social justice and the significance of respectful dialogue. 

Main Topics

00:00 - Nate Boyer's Journey: From Green Beret to NFL

03:17 - Finding Purpose: The Call to Action in Darfur

06:08 - Transitioning to the Army: The Path to Special Forces

08:09 - The Decision to Pursue College Football

11:50 - The Unconventional Walk-On Experience at Texas

17:35 - The Importance of Showing Up: Making Opportunities

22:30 - Embracing the Challenge: A Mindset for Success

23:00 - Setting Ridiculous Goals: The Path to Achievement

24:30 - Overcoming Adversity: The Journey of Persistence

27:11 - The Road to the NFL: Unexpected Opportunities

30:01 - A Conversation with Colin Kaepernick: Bridging Perspectives

36:52 - Current Endeavors: Making an Impact Beyond Sports

Additional Resources

In this podcast episode, Dr. David Gioe shares his extensive background in intelligence and academia, discussing his journey from being an FBI intelligence analyst to a CIA case officer and ultimately a professor at King's College. He elaborates on the nuances of pursuing a PhD in the US versus the UK and offers valuable insights on crafting a competitive application for graduate programs. He shares insights on how veterans can leverage their unique experiences while adapting to the academic culture, and he offers practical advice for navigating the PhD journey successfully.

Main Topics

• 00:00 Introduction to Dr. David Gioe

• 06:20 The Roles of Analyst vs. Case Officer

• 14:00 Navigating PhD Programs: US vs. UK

• 20:43 Crafting a Competitive Application for PhD Programs

• 28:32 Overcoming Academic Paralysis

• 34:30 Veterans in Academia: Strengths and Challenges

• 42:01 Navigating the PhD Journey

• 50:13 Resilience and the Reality of Rejection

Additional Resources

In this podcast episode, Alex Dawson shares his journey from being a Navy Nuclear Service Warfare Officer to pursuing an MBA at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business and preparing for a career in consulting at Bain & Company. He discusses the challenges and strategies involved in the MBA admissions process, particularly for veterans, and emphasizes the importance of test scores, GPA, and crafting a compelling narrative. The conversation also covers the evolving landscape of MBA admissions, including the shift from GMAT to GRE, and the significance of leveraging veteran networks for support.

Main Topics

00:00 - From Nuclear Engineering to the Navy

03:18 - Transitioning to Business School

06:00 - The Shift from Engineering to Consulting

08:57- Navigating the MBA Admissions Process

11:38 - Consulting Recruitment Insights

14:40 - Understanding the MBA Landscape for Veterans

19:32 - Analyzing Veteran Advantages in MBA Admissions

29:53 - GMAT vs GRE: Which Test to Take?

36:24 - Understanding the Impact of MOS on Admissions

44:36 - The Importance of Undergrad GPA

49:09 - Age Considerations in MBA Applications

51:06 - Assessing Your Chances for Admission

Additional Resources

Surprise, it’s a bonus episode! Today’s guest is a S2S Applicant turned Ambassador and now S2S’s new Director of Alumni Programming, Jacob Ashton! Jacob joined us to chat about his experience in the military & transitioning to the classroom, including his relationships with professors, difference in military & academic leadership, challenges veterans face on campus, and overcoming life hurdles along the way in the pursuit of his goals. 

Main Topics 

• Jacob’s background & introduction (0:32)

• Transitioning from military to academia (4:40)

• The academic experience: from Community College to Ivy League (5:30)

• Overcoming Rejection: The path to Columbia University (12:15)

• Building Relationships: Professors and campus resources (17:00)

• Finding Community: The importance of veteran networks (24:45)

• Advice for future applicants: prioritizing mental health  (28:25)

Additional Resources 

This week, we welcome S2S Applicant turned Ambassador, Zac Cobb to the podcast. Zac is a former USAF Pararescueman (PJ), UT Austin graduate, and current 1L law student at Yale Law School. Zac shares about his journey from college to the military and on to law school, dives deep into navigating law school admissions, the veteran community & culture at Yale Law School, tons of tips & advice for fellow veterans applying to law school admissions, and much more. 

Main Topics 

• ​Zac’s background & introduction (0:32)
• ​Journey from college to the military (2:45)
• ​Understanding the 'Why' behind law school (5:10)
• ​Navigating the law school application process, LSAT preparation, admissions essay approach (9:00)
• ​Choosing Yale: the decision-making & enrollment process (16:00)
• ​Life at Yale Law School: community and classroom culture (21:00)
• ​Exploring areas of law to pursue (24:45)
• ​Advice for fellow veteran applicants (27:00)

Additional Resources 

Today we are joined on the podcast by S2S’s Graduate Program Director, John Jasionowicz. In addition to supporting veteran applicants, John is a recent MBA graduate of Vanderbilt University Owen, an Army veteran, Bass Military Scholar, and currently pursuing a PhD candidacy. Join us as John shares about his journey in academics, the differences between applying for an MBA and PhD, insights on using veterans benefits for grad school, and more. 

Main Topics 

• John’s background & intro (0:32) 

• Decision to go back to grad school & what’s next after graduating with MBA (2:35)

• How process of applying to PhD program has differed from applying for MBA (4:30)

• Career goals after PhD (6:30)

• Importance of having a research topic & dissertation planned out prior to applying for PhD programs, longevity & commitment of a PhD program (8:10)

• Bass Military Scholarship program & other veterans benefits (13:05)

• Using benefits for PhD program, setting up for financial success for multiple degree programs (20:45)

• Favorite part of working with veteran applicants on the S2S Other Graduate team (22:05)

Additional Resources 

Today we are joined by Service to School applicant, Justin Cole. Justin is a veteran of the US Air Force, transfer student, and current student at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Justin jumps right with us about how life experiences during his military service drove a passion that led him to higher education. We chat about transitioning to campus, adjusting to the change in academic rigor of MIT, leveraging connections for research & career opportunities, and much more!

Main Topics 

• Justin’s background & intro (0:03)

• Managing high level of responsibility & expectations joining the Air Force right out of high school (4:20) 

• Deployment to Japan inspiring future career ambitions, influence of passion to fight climate change on decision to separate from the military (6:22)

• Transition from the military & into academia, impacts of connecting with fellow service members during the admissions process (10:05)

• Taking classes at UCCS, college plans that were on the radar, exploring opportunities in desired career space (12:00)

• Approach to applying for transfer admission, joining campus as a spring semester transfer (15:15)

• Experience transitioning from UCCS to MIT, the classroom environment as a non-traditional student (17:05)

• Connecting with faculty about career interests leading to academic research opportunity (22:35)

• Funding college, leveraging the GI Bill & VR&E, exploring schools with need-blind admissions (27:40)

• Best parts of studying at MIT (30:05) 

• Advice for fellow veterans pursuing passions & applying to competitive colleges (33:20) 

Additional Resources 

In today’s episode, we sat down for a conversation with a Service to School applicant turned Ambassador, James Schlabach. James is a US Marine Corps veteran and current medical student at the University of Michigan. We dive right in to chat all about medical school from articulating your “why” to attending a Post-Bacc program, what med school experiences are available to preparing for residency, and much more in between. This conversation is jam packed with resources and insights from a fellow veteran who has been there & done that. If you’re considering medical school, you don’t want to miss this chat! 

Main Topics 

•  James background & intro (0:32)

• Post-Bacc experience, preparation for Post-Bacc, navigating it & using it for medical school application (2:40) 

• Preparing for the MCAT (6:45) 

• Articulating your “why” for applying to medical school (10:40) 

• Composition of medical school peers (14:10)

• Balancing med school responsibilities, pre-clinical vs clinical educational experiences, evaluating different medical school experiential options (18:35) 

• Post-medical school plans, preparing for residency interviews, how Match Day works (25:40)

• Advocacy work for getting more service members & veterans into medical school (30:15)

• Advice for fellow veterans & service members considering medical school (38:50) 

Additional Resources 

Today we are joined by Service to School veteran applicant, Liam Fangman. Liam is a US Air Force veteran, current MBA student at University of Notre Dame Mendoza College of Business, and co-founder of Enlisted ExFil. Liam brings his experience in the military that led to his decision to pursue an MBA, preparing for admissions, navigating & prioritizing campus opportunities, a passion for giving back to fellow veterans, and more! 

Main Topics 

• Liam background & introduction (0:32)

• Transition from military to pursuing an MBA, career plans prior to applying to business school, deciding between consulting & tech (2:25)

• Preparing for MBA applications (5:40) 

• First year of MBA program at Mendoza like, navigating the abundance of opportunities for MBA students (7:15)

• Balancing career recruiting with schools & life, intentionality & leveraging alumni community when navigating recruiting efforts (9:50)

• Approach for 2nd Year MBA & vast opportunities (13:15) 

• Course/class highlights, experiential learning (16:35)

• Outside of the classroom, giving back to enlisted veterans & the founding of Enlisted ExFil (18:20)

Additional Resources 

On today’s episode, we have a fantastic conversation with Service to School applicant & Ambassador, Ed Somuk. Ed is a retired US Marine Corps veteran & current student at Harvard University. We dive into applying to college after retiring from a full military career, deciding to start college as a 1st year freshman vs. later year transfer student, balancing college life with a family, the veteran community on campus and more!

Main Topics 

• Ed’s background & introduction (0:35)

• Experiences in the Marines that inspired decision to attend college (4:45)

• Begin the process of pursuing higher education, finding S2S, reaching out for admissions support (7:15)

• Evaluating criteria for transfer vs 1st year application, the most common questions from other veterans applying to Harvard (12:40) 

• Power of S2S ambassador in translating experience for admissions officers (13:50)

• Receiving admissions letter from Harvard (16:05) 

• Decision to matriculate to Harvard as a 1st year freshman vs. sophomore or junior, balancing traditional freshman experiences with family life as adult learner (21:15) 

• Difference in academic rigor in online courses & classes at Harvard (25:00)

• Campus experiences that relate to campus culture, college fit & goals of education  (27:30)

• Veteran community at Harvard, recognition of value veterans bring to campus (31:55) 

• Advice for fellow veterans considering pursuing higher education (33:50) 

Additional Resources 

This week on the podcast we are diving into the medical school experience for veterans. We’re joined by Karyna Bravo, US Marine Corps veteran, first generation college student, current Physician Assistant (PA) student at Stanford Medical School, and 2024 Tillman Scholar. We discuss the benefits of shadowing providers in the admissions process, Post-Bacc program benefits, funding a medical education, and much more. If you’re a veteran considering medical school, you don’t want to miss this! 

Main Topics 

• Karyna’s background & introduction (0:35) 

• Decision to leave the military & pursue college (2:55) 

• Paying for undergraduate degree (4:50) 

• Getting started in clinical psychology career (6:20) 

• Decision to apply to PA programs (9:05) 

• Finding & funding a Post-Bacc program, benefits of Post-Bacc & preparation for applying for medical school (10:20) 

• Benefits of shadowing healthcare professionals before applying (13:00)

• Researching Physician Assistant (PA) programs & finding Stanford Med (15:00)

• Veterans in the PA program & the veteran community (16:05) 

• Population of PA program & funding medical education through VocRehab (19:15)

• Best parts of PA school at Stanford (22:10) 

• Long term career plans & advice for fellow veterans pursuing the medical field (23:30)

Additional Resources 

We are heading to law school on today’s podcast interview! Joining us today is David Heider, US Naval Academy graduate, former US Navy aviator, incoming 2L at William & Mary Law School, and S2S Ambassador for both undergraduate and law applicants. David shares his law school application experiences, from taking the LSAT on a tight timeline to advocating for himself with admissions, the influence of his military service on the area of law he is pursuing, balancing family & law school priorities, and much more! If you are thinking about applying to law school, take a listen for great tips & insights for your own journey! 

Main Topics 

• David intro & background (0:35)

• Sparked interest in pursuing law as a career (3:15)

• GRE or GMAT, studying & taking the LSAT on a condensed timeline (4:30)

• Experience attending William & Mary vs. UNC, factors veteran applicants should consider when deciding where to apply (6:05) 

• Influence of time in service on type of law to practice  (8:30)

• Summer internship, impact of presence on LinkedIn (9:55)

• Non-traditional demographics & prior work experience of law school cohort, juggling competing family & school priorities (10:55) 

• Law school admissions experience, advocating for yourself in the admissions process (15:00)

• Working through imposter syndrome (22:35) 

• Most common questions/concerns asked while mentoring undergraduate & law school applicants (23:25)

• What is ahead on the law school path? (28:05) 

Additional Resources 

We’re diving into business school today with S2S applicant Jasen Baker! Jasen is many things including a former US Army Special Forces medical sergeant, current student at Harvard Business School, Veteran mentor, husband, father, and more. Jasen shares about his experience being involuntarily medically separated from the military, navigating the MBA admissions process, life at business school with a family, the power of the veteran mentorship pipeline, leveraging veteran benefits in higher ed and more! Interested in applying to business school and want some insights? This episode is packed with great information & tips no matter what stage of the admissions process you’re in. 

Main Topics 

• Guest host Alex’s introduction (0:35)

• Jasen’s background & introduction (2:00)

• Experience being involuntarily medically retired from the military & decision to pursue an MBA after lifelong training & desire to work in a physical job (4:20)

• Navigating the MBA application process & test prep all on a short timeline, evaluating school options & where to apply (7:25)

• Feelings surrounding acceptance to Harvard Business School, life at business school with a family (11:10)

• The career progression process, starting MBA program without a set career plan & exploring  various opportunities, evaluating best fit based on life priorities (14:40) 

• Benefits of the veteran giving back pipeline & mentoring fellow veterans (19:10)  

• Experience & advice using VocRehab & Education (VR&E) for higher education or grad school (22:40) 

• Connecting  top companies & high achieving student veterans via undergraduate enlisted student career summit (26:30) 

• Enlisted ExFil community (30:35) 

• Advice for fellow veterans (31:55) 

Additional Resources 

Today’s episode kicks off Season 5 & introduces listeners to Kate Ruelan. Kate is a US Marine Corps veteran, first generation college student, and current student at Cornell University. We talk about Kate’s transition from the military to working full time in electronics manufacturing, deciding to leave her job to pursue education full time, her experiences navigating the admissions process, deciding between two prestigious universities, and more! 

Main Topics 

• (0:35) Kate’s background & introduction 

• (5:25) Experience enlisting in the military while peers were applying to & high school was pushing college 

• (8:15) Decision to go to college while working in a job where you had built experience doing in the military, loved job & workplace, saw deadend ahead 

• (10:40) Navigating the admissions process as a first generation college student 

• (13:00) Creating a balanced college list 

• (14:00) Experience with the S2S Scholars Cohort, space for service members/veterans to share challenges & ask questions free of judgment 

• (17:10) Deciding between college acceptances & weighing best fit, evaluating schools beyond their rankings 

• (23:20) Initial experiences & energy on campus as a new student at Cornell 

• (26:25) Suggestions for veterans that desire to pursue a high caliber higher education 

• (29:45) Veterans community at Cornell 

• (31:30) Piece of advice to first generation student veterans 

Additional Resources 

On today’s episode, we welcome the Director of Student Success at S2S, Annie Behari. Annie has more than a decade of experience working in higher education. After earning her Masters in Higher Education at Harvard University, she began her career as an Assistant Director of Admissions at Lafayette College & then at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, and most recently a college counselor, helping students apply to undergraduate programs across the world. In this episode, Annie helps to bust common college admissions myths, with specific focus on myths centered on the veteran student experience. Find out if applying to more schools will increase your chances of admission or whether there’s a benefit to submitting standardized test scores with your application. 

Main Topics 

• Annie’s introduction & background (0:33) 

• Myth 1 - “I heard veterans have a higher chance of getting into an Ivy league college, is that true?” (3:24)

• Myth 2 - “Heard there is a set number of seats for veterans at X school” (6:00)

• Myth 3 -  “I have a low high school GPA then served in the military; can I still get into a good college,”  focus on school fit vs generic “good school” label (9:10) 

• Myth 4 - “Applying to every Ivy league college will increase my chances of being accepted by one” (13:20)

• Myth 5-  “Colleges won’t admit me because they know that I’m applying to their peers” (18:49)

• Myth 6 - “I have to go to an Ivy league school to go on to have a successful career or go to a top grad school” (20:56)

• Ways applicants can strengthen their application (26:45) 

• “Should I take the ACT or SAT for my application?” (29:13)

• How do you navigate letters of recommendation with veteran applicants (32:06)

•  Advice for applicants (36:26)

Additional Resources

Today’s episode explores the student veteran campus experience at the University of Notre Dame. We sat down with the Director & Assistant Director respectively in the Office of Military & Veterans Affairs,Ken Heckel & Michael Labbe, as well as Undergraduate Admissions Counselor, Montanna Kirven, and current ND senior, John Noonan. We chat about the admissions process at Notre Dame, firsthand experiences of veterans on campus, the financial investment of attending college, and more! This interview is filled with deep insights from higher education professionals & a student veteran and a great listen for prospective undergraduate students. 

Main Topics 

• Notre Dame guest backgrounds & introductions (0:33) 

• Admissions process at Notre Dame, distinction between first year & transfer applicants & what veterans should know about each (2:10)  

• Can/will admissions shift applications that should be the other type (ie. applicant applies as a transfer student but they should be considered a first year) (6:50)

• Courses that admissions office likes to see transfer applicants take & display in their application (8:50)

• Admissions preparations while serving in the Navy, experience applying to Notre Dame (10:50) 

• Unique skills veterans have that allow them to succeed on campus (14:07)

• Veteran experience working at Notre Dame while attending as a graduate student (17:10)

• Student veteran experience on residential campus, Naval ROTC course & engaging with earlier undergraduate students considering military experience (21:40)

• Different colleges at Notre Dame & where veterans tend to gravitate toward (26:45)

• Financial costs of attending college & financial aid benefits available to veterans & service members (31:55) 

• Peer-to-peer sponsorship program coming to campus, host family program providing support & welcome military-connected students into the Notre Dame community (39:10) 

• Quintessential Notre Dame experience upon stepping onto campus (47:10) 

Additional Resources

Today’s episode introduces listeners to the world of small business with guest Amanda Robbins. Amanda is a Navy submarine veteran, a 4th generation Naval Academy graduate, executive MBA student at The Wharton School, and current Sr. VP & CFO at Solar Technology. We talk about Amanda’s transition from the military to working full time while working toward an MBA, leveraging military skills working at a small business, benefits of an executive MBA, and more! 

Main Topics 

• Amanda’s introduction & background (0:33)

• Nuclear engineering training & academic experience at the US Naval Academy (3:45)

• Pioneering submariner career field as a female & integration with a previously male-only career field (7:05)

• Decision to separate from the military & return home to work for parents’ company (9:17) 

• Managing transition from the Navy while on submarine duty (11:05) 

• Studying & preparing for the GMAT (13:28)

• Working with S2S Ambassador during admissions process to The Wharton School E-MBA program, advice for veterans considering a similar route (15:43)

• Role as a CFO at a small business (17:56)

• Leveraging skills learned as a naval submarine officer working in small business, things to consider when working for a small, family-owned business vs. large corporation/business (20:05)

• Day-to-day responsibilities of a CFO, preparing for current role after nuclear sub experience while just now working on MBA (23:00) 

• What is an Executive MBA (E-MBA), how is differs from a traditional MBA, and balancing grad school while working full time (26:26) 

• Typical industry & career goals of E-MBA students in cohort at Wharton (29:30) 

• Words of wisdom for fellow veterans (33:55) 

Additional Resources

We are heading to law school & beyond on today’s podcast interview! Joining us today is Nathan Lowry, Cornell graduate, former US Marine Corps ground intelligence officer, current student at Harvard Law & co-director of S2S’s JD Law team. Nathan shares his experiences building his target list for applying to law school, exploring possible areas of law to pursue, establishing relationships with faculty, career preparation and much more! If you are thinking about applying to law school, take a listen for great tips & insights for your own journey!

Main Topics 

• Nathan introduction & background (0:33)

• Decision to transition out of the military to pursue law school, determining if the LSAT or GRE is the best exam for you, preparing for law school after being away from school (3:27)

•  Evaluating school fit, building a target list for applications (7:05)

• Social & academic experiences integrating into the classroom, favorite & least favorite parts of law school (10:10)

• Knowing vs exploring areas of law you want to pursue, clubs & extracurriculars in law school (13:30)  

• Establishing relationships with faculty in law school (16:00)

• Career advising & support for post-graduation law opportunities (17:35)

• Common questions & concerns among law school applicants that work with S2S; “What GPA/LSAT score do I need to get into X law school” (20:45) 

• Advice for veterans considering or currently preparing for law school (23:16)

Additional Resources

Jump in to service & scholarship with us on today’s podcast interview! We welcome Bob Atkinson, accomplished US Air Force veteran, current senior at Yale University, and named both a Marshall & Truman Scholar. Bob brings his experience in the military & at Yale to discuss overcoming obstacles throughout his life that fueled a passion for service, as well as the opportunities he created at Yale that led to pursuing (& receiving) multiple prestigious scholarships. 

Main Topics 

• Bob’s introduction & background (0:33)

• Decision to enlist, transitioning from the military & the journey to Yale (2:30) 

• Overcoming an environment of drug abuse & the influence of who you surround yourself with to foster leadership skills, how the military affected relationships at home (6:55)  

• Air Force special operator training  (12:50)

• Timeline of transition from the military separation to college admissions (19:35) 

• Taking classes while deployed to prepare for admissions, leveraging fellow veterans & other resources during the admissions process (23:23)

• Eli Whitney Students Program at Yale, what it is & is not, benefits of the admissions path for student veterans (27:30) 

• Truman Scholarship, what it entails, what was the draw & what was the process to apply (32:20) 

• Marshall Scholarship, what is it & what the application process entailed (38:20)

• Long term goals & courses on the path to get there (43:00) 

•  Advice for fellow veterans applying to college (45:25)

Additional Resources

We are joined today for a discussion about preparing student veterans for their future careers at University of South Carolina (USC) with Villardine Goode. Villardine is a retired Army MSgt now serving as the Veterans and Military Academic Success Coach at USC. Villardine shares her experience providing guidance & information to military service members & veterans as they prepare to enroll in higher education, navigating the admissions process to integrating on campus, why veterans should consider USC, and more!

Main Topics 

• Villardine introduction & background (0:33) 

• How has your own military background helped your ability to support student veterans (7:05) 

• Walking students through financing their education & utilizing benefits available to them (11:48)

• Approach to student career preparation at USC, partnerships with companies & employers looking to hire student veterans (15:25)

• Breaking down on-campus barriers, supporting a holistic student veterans community (20:35) 

• New student veteran orientation, integrating into the campus community (22:35) 

• Why student veterans should consider USC when separating from the military to attend college (24:45)

• Advice for service members considering separating & applying to college (27:10) 

Additional Resources

This week on the podcast we are diving into pathways to medical school for veterans. We’re joined by Peter Campbell, James White, and Jamie Frost of MedVets, a peer mentorship program focused on helping veterans who are interested in physicians associate & nursing programs as well as medical school. We discuss opportunities to strengthen your medical school applications, MCAT preparation & tips, the FlexMed admissions pathway for veterans at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, and much more. If you’re a veteran considering medical school, you don’t want to miss this! 

Main Topics 

• Background & intro to MedVets & guests Pete, James & Jamie (0:33) 

• Motivations to go to medical school, coming to medicine after other job experiences  (3:20) 

• Steps taken to be competitive for medical school, leveraging post-Bacc opportunities to make career pivot into medicine (6:50) 

• Prerequisite classes that post-Bacc programs help cover, navigating medical school course requirements, addressing medical school admissions statistics (11:30)

• Steps to applying to medical schools, advice for military applicants (14:23) 

• First steps toward applying to med school after military service, power of job shadowing, connecting with fellow med school veterans (17:30) 

• Post-Bacc courses to prioritize & recommended online resources/schools (22:20)

• How the MCAT fits into the medical school admissions process (24:50)

• MCAT preparation (30:40)

• Icahn Mt. Sinai military partnership admissions pathway (32:35) 

• Strengthening your med school application with a history of mid-to-low GPA (35:45)

• Deciding on a field of medicine to practice (39:10) 

• Advice to veterans considering or pursuing medical school (45:05)

Additional Resources