The Ultimate Guide for Veterans Transitioning to College in NYC

WELL-BEING: MEDICAL, DENTAL, AND MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

Your health and well-being are of utmost importance during your transition from military to civilian life. The following resources are dedicated to providing comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health support for Veterans like yourself:

• James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center and New York Harbor Healthcare System: These VA facilities provide primary and specialty care to Veterans in the NYC metropolitan area. To determine your eligibility and access services, contact James J. Peters VA at (718) 584-9000 ext. 5353 or New York Harbor Healthcare System at (718) 836-6600 ext. 21807.
• Vet Centers: Vet Centers provide confidential counseling and support to eligible Veterans, service members, and their families, including assistance with military-to-civilian transition, trauma, and other challenges. Connect with your local Vet Center to learn more about the support and services available to you.
• Veterans Crisis Line: Available 24/7, the Veterans Crisis Line offers free and confidential support. Simply dial 988 and press 1 to connect with trained professionals who can assist you during times of crisis.
• NY Presbyterian Military Family Wellness Center: This center specializes in providing care and support for military families and Veterans. Call (212) 821-0783 to make an appointment. 
• Veterans rated 100% permanent and total for service-connected disabilities qualify for free comprehensive VA dental care (Class IV) and annual eye exams. Placed in Priority Group 1, they receive no-cost care—including glasses and hearing aids—through VA medical centers. 

Whether you require primary care, specialized treatments, mental health support, or dental services, these organizations are here to help you maintain your well-being throughout your transition and beyond.

EDUCATION 

As you transition from military to civilian life, education and training benefits can open doors to a wide range of career paths. Start by checking your federal and New York State VA education benefit rates to understand what you're eligible for. The resources below highlight the VA and state education benefits available to support you on that path.

These VA education benefits are designed to assist you in achieving your educational and career goals. Whether you're pursuing a degree, vocational training, or other educational opportunities, these programs can provide crucial financial support and resources. Take advantage of these resources and explore additional VA programs that may be available to further support your educational journey.

The following colleges and universities are members of the NYC Consortium for Veteran and Military-Connected Students and proudly work to support Veterans in their transition to academic life. 

Here's the table with reasonable guesses filled in — all four are large private universities with graduate and doctoral programs, so this should hold up, but I'd still confirm before it goes to print since exact offerings vary by school:

Service-Connected Disability

If you're a Veteran facing disability challenges, numerous resources are available to provide assistance and support. The following organizations and programs are dedicated to helping Veterans apply for and access disability benefits and services:

• New York State Department of Veterans' Services: This department offers support in filing a claim for disability compensation. Book an appointment by calling (888) 838-7697 or clicking here. They can guide you through the process and ensure you receive the benefits you're entitled to.
• DAV (Disabled American Veterans): DAV provides a range of services and support for disabled Veterans. They assist with benefits claims, transportation to medical appointments, employment resources, and more. 
• Veteran Benefits Administration: The VBA is responsible for administering disability compensation programs. They provide comprehensive information and resources related to disability benefits. 
• Wounded Warrior Project: WWP offers a wide range of programs and services to support Veterans with disabilities. They provide assistance with benefits claims, mental health support, physical rehabilitation, and more. 

These resources can help connect you with disability services:

• NYC Office of Disability Services: The NYC Office of Disability Services provides support and resources for disabled individuals, including Veterans. Explore their website to access information on disability rights, benefits, and services available in the NYC area.
• Institute for Career Development: ICD offers vocational training and job placement assistance for individuals with disabilities, including Veterans. They provide customized programs to help you develop new skills and achieve your career goals.

These resources are committed to supporting Veterans with disabilities, ensuring you have access to the benefits, services, and opportunities you deserve. Reach out to these organizations to explore the support they offer and find the resources that best suit your needs.

Social Connections

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be a challenging process, and maintaining social connections is crucial for a successful transition. Staying socially connected can provide a sense of belonging, support, and community, which are vital for overall well-being. Here are some reasons why staying socially connected is important:

1. Sense of Belonging: Building connections with fellow Veterans and community members can help create a sense of belonging and camaraderie. By engaging in social activities, you can find others who share similar experiences and understand the challenges you may face during the transition.
2. Emotional Support: Social connections provide a valuable support system, allowing you to share your thoughts, concerns, and experiences with others who can provide empathy and guidance. Having a strong support network can help reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.
3. Networking Opportunities: Building a diverse network of contacts can open doors to various opportunities, including employment prospects, educational resources, and mentorship programs. By staying socially connected, you can tap into the knowledge, skills, and experiences of others who may assist you in your post-military endeavors.

To help you stay socially connected, here are some valuable resources and organizations:

• OURVETERANS.NYC: This platform serves as a public listing of events and information specifically intended for Veterans and their family members in the NYC Metro area. It offers a comprehensive directory of resources, support groups, and social events tailored to the needs of Veterans.
• Student Veterans of America (SVA): Connect with your school's chapter of SVA, a national organization dedicated to supporting student Veterans during their transition to higher education. SVA provides a sense of community, resources, and advocacy for student Veterans across the country.
• Local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion: Reach out to your local chapters of the VFW and the American Legion. These organizations offer social opportunities, community service projects, and advocacy for Veterans. 
• Exit 12 Dance Company: This contemporary dance group, composed of Veterans and military family members, uses dance as a tool for storytelling, healing, and creating connections within the community.
• VetTix: From sporting events and concerts to educational and family activities, Vet Tix offers access to sporting events, concerts, performing arts, educational, and family activities with an online sign-up process, verification of service, and a small delivery fee.
• Theater Development Fund: The Theater Development Fund offers discounted tickets to Veterans groups.
• Endeavor Veteran Program offers weekly equine-assisted sessions for Veterans and Active Duty Military Personnel.

Other Resources

During your transition from military service to civilian life, there are additional resources available to assist you in accessing benefits and addressing any concerns related to your military service. Here are some frequent topics that can provide guidance and support:

Obtaining Military Service and Medical Records 

It is essential to have a copy of your final military service and medical records, as they are crucial for accessing benefits and services. A copy of your military service records can be requested from the National Archives. 

Filing for a Discharge Upgrade

If you believe that your discharge characterization from the military does not accurately reflect your service or circumstances, you have the option to pursue a discharge upgrade. A discharge upgrade can impact your eligibility for certain benefits and opportunities. There are resources available to assist you through this process. Consider the following options:

• Contact your local Veterans Service Organization (VSO): VSOs have trained personnel who can guide you through the discharge upgrade process, provide support, and help gather necessary documentation.
• Seek legal assistance: Consider consulting with a lawyer who specializes in military law or Veterans' issues. They can provide legal advice, review your case, and help you navigate the discharge upgrade process.
• Veteran Advocacy Project offers free legal services through their Discharge Upgrade Clinic. 
• New York Legal Assistance Group offers free legal services and financial counseling for veterans. 

Please note that the discharge upgrade process may vary depending on your specific circumstances and the branch of the military in which you served. It is recommended to consult with a knowledgeable professional or organization to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for your situation.

Veteran Service Officer

VSOs are trained professionals who assist Veterans and their families in navigating the process of accessing and securing benefits and services provided by the VA. They play a crucial role in helping Veterans understand and apply for healthcare, disability compensation, education benefits, and other support programs. VSOs provide personalized guidance, advocacy, and support, ensuring that Veterans receive the benefits they deserve and easing the burden of navigating the VA system. VSOs are often affiliated with a government or private organization. Look up your closest VSOs at any of the following: New York State Department of Veterans' Services, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Amvets, Vietnam Veterans of America, Disabled American Veterans, and Paralyzed Veterans of America. 

Remember, these resources are meant to provide guidance and support during your transition, and they can help you navigate the complexities of assessing benefits and addressing discharge-related concerns. Utilize them as valuable tools to ensure you receive the support and recognition you deserve for your military service.