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1
A Veteran's Journey / My VUB Journey
Last post by mtjester13 -
    The thought of attending college in pursuit of a BS degree was never in my crosshairs after leaving the USMC. I had everything I needed in life, after having lived as a minimalist for the last 4 years in the Corps in 1996. As life would have it, I got married and brought some beautiful girls into this world. I also watched those girls graduate from high school and start to pursue their personal dreams of what life might bring. As a successful businessman, I had worked to provide a life that did not involve college... until it did! My younger daughter decided she wanted to become a lawyer, but didn't want to go to school. As a man that could afford to do it, I simply replied, "I will go to school if you do." At 49 years old, I had no idea that she would take me up on it. Obviously, I had NO idea what I was getting into.
    Fast forward to today- I have a semester left, after 2.5 years of schooling, until I receive my degree. From the moment I signed up for classes, I needed to "learn how to do school" again. VUB was instrumental in making my back-to-school experience one that seemed more normal for someone at my age. Readiness for college through workshops, social and cultural events, tutoring support, and everything in between is what was provided to enable me to work through my college experience. Without VUB, I would not currently be sitting with a 3.94 gpa after almost ending my college experience at MSUB.
    Thank you, Veterans Upward Bound for making the reality of a dream I never knew I had come true.
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A Veteran's Journey / Finding Confidence in College as a Veteran
Last post by lquinn -
Starting college felt like stepping into unfamiliar territory—especially because my high school education didn’t exactly set me up for success. I worried that I wouldn’t be able to keep up.

I found Veterans Upward Bound (VUB), and everything changed. The refresher courses in math and science helped me rebuild my foundation and gave me the confidence that I could tackle college-level coursework. Additionally, I was coached through note-taking strategies that helped me feel prepared for my classes.
Not only have these strategies helped me excel in my classes, I've been able to pay it forward. As a science tutor, I’ve been able to share what I’ve learned with other students, giving them the same tools that helped me succeed.

One of the most rewarding parts of my experience has been helping other veterans learn about this program—those who are thinking about college but might be unsure about how to start. I can reassure them that VUB is there to help, offering resources that make the transition into college smoother, such as the laptop program. Having a reliable computer makes a huge difference for attending classes and finishing assignments.

I am very grateful for VUB and the impact it has had on my education. This program has not only helped me grow academically but has also given me the opportunity to assist others along the way. If you are a veteran thinking about college, I strongly recommend VUB—it might be just the support you are looking for.

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A Veteran's Journey / From Struggles to Success: How VUB Changed My Life
Last post by pzjansen -
My name is Patricia, and I am incredibly grateful to have been a participant in Veterans Upward Bound (VUB). Words can’t fully express the impact this program has had on my education and my life.

When I first began my college journey, I wasn’t aware of Veterans Upward Bound. Without guidance, leadership, or mentorship, I struggled and ultimately gave up before earning my degree.

Everything changed when I connected with VUB. They gave me the support and encouragement I needed to try again—and this time, I wasn’t alone. From day one, they’ve been with me every step of the way. The refresher courses were especially helpful in getting my mind back into "college mode" after time away from the classroom.

Every semester brings its own challenges, but the VUB team has consistently been there to guide, mentor, and support me. I can truly feel the difference between pursuing higher education without their help and doing it with their ongoing support.

Thanks to VUB, I’m now about a year away from graduating—something I once thought was out of reach. My grades are better than ever, and I’ve gained confidence, direction, and the resources I need to succeed, including access to tutors and mentorship.

What’s even more inspiring is seeing how this program has transformed the lives of many other veterans, just like me. I can’t thank Veterans Upward Bound enough for all they do. They’ve made a lasting difference in my journey—and I know they’re doing the same for so many others.