In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, hosts Shawn Welsh and Dr.
Hira welcome Alec Emmert, CEO of Service to School, for an in-depth
discussion about the nonprofit’s mission to empower veterans to pursue
and succeed in higher education. Since its founding in 2013, Service to
School has supported over 20,000 veterans, partnering with 31
prestigious colleges and 20 graduate programs, including Ivy League
institutions and top public universities.
Alec shares details
about the groundbreaking Vet Link program, a unique initiative that
helps veterans translate their military experiences into academic
credentials for college applications. With this program, veterans have
achieved significant successes, such as 24 admitted to Princeton and 17
to Harvard in just one year. He also emphasizes the value of free
mentorship from ambassadors—veterans with similar military backgrounds
who guide applicants through every stage, from essay writing to final
submission.
The episode delves into Alec’s personal journey from
the Navy to corporate roles, earning advanced degrees, and ultimately
leading Service to School. He recounts how his own positive experience
with the organization inspired his commitment to its mission. Listeners
will learn how veterans can access Service to School's programs multiple
times—for undergraduate, graduate, or professional education—and how
the organization continues to support veterans post-application with
career updates and resources.
In addition, Alec highlights
collaborations with programs like the Warrior Scholar Project, which
prepares veterans for academic life through immersive boot camps. These
partnerships, combined with Service to School’s deliberate selection of
schools with high graduation rates and veteran-friendly policies, ensure
a comprehensive support system for student veterans.
Stay tuned
for information about the VET S.O.S. admissions fairs, where veterans
can meet representatives from partner schools virtually. This episode is
packed with insights and resources, emphasizing the importance of
community and mentorship in transitioning successfully to higher
education.
Listen now and discover how Service to School is
changing lives, one veteran at a time. Don't miss this inspiring and
informative conversation!
https://www.service2school.org/
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