VETSUCCESS ON CAMPUS: TOOLS FOR SUCCESS - Southwestern Illinois College

The Dept. of Veterans Affairs selected SWIC for the VetSuccess on Campus. Through the VSOC program, the VA places experienced vocational rehabilitation counselors on selected college campuses. They assist service members, veterans, and dependents attending school both under the Post-9/11 GI Bill® and other VA educational programs.

The VSOC counselors are specifically trained to provide academic and vocational guidance to veterans. Counselors help connect veterans to other VA benefits, including health care and mental health services. The VSOC counselors maintain close relationships with local VA Vet Centers and VA medical facilities. They provide referrals – as needed and assistance in applying for VA medical and nonmedical benefits.

VetSuccess on Campus services are available to service members and veterans eligible for any of the VA’s educational programs. Educational programs include the Post 9/11 and Montgomery GI Bills® and the VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program. Further, VSOC counselors also assist dependents of Veterans who are receiving VA education benefits. Dependents include eligible spouses attending school through the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and eligible children.

Additionally, the VA’s Education and Career Counseling Program offers a great opportunity for transitioning service members and veterans to get personalized counseling and support to guide their career paths, ensure the most effective use of their VA benefits, and help them achieve their goals.

The VA GI Bill® website offers tools to help veterans transition from military service to student success. The new Veteran Employment Center on eBenefits is a one-stop shop offering online tools and resources for career assistance and connecting employers interested in hiring service members, veterans, and their dependents.