Higher ed institutions in Texarkana extend a helping hand to veterans
TEXARKANA, Texas — With the increased numbers of veterans in Texarkana, local higher education institutions have created tailor-made programs for those retired from active duty.
Texas A&M University-texarkana’s Robert Hernandez, the manager of Veteran Services, said 173 students use tuition assistance or Veterans Affairs or state of Texas veterans benefits.
“The top three programs amongst our military-affiliated students are Bachelor of Business Administration with management concentration, Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Bachelor of Computer Science with cybersecurity concentration,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez, a 30-year Air Force veteran, said the university is dedicated to supporting those on active duty, in the reserves or National Guard, veterans and their family members.
“TAMU-T has an office completely dedicated to assisting, guiding, mentoring and directing all military-affiliated students from the time of submitting an admission application all the way to graduation,” Hernandez said. “There is a 1,400-square-foot Veteran Services Center dedicated to these students, which provides student computers, study room, snacks and a place to relax between classes, as well as a place to meet fellow military students.”
Hernandez said the center not only helps veteran students explore eligibility for veterans benefits from Department of Veterans Affairs and the state of Texas, but also assists with applying for federal student aid.
“TAMU-T provides priority registration to returning military-affiliated student, allowing them to register for their next semester classes the first day of the registration period, regardless of their student classification. The Veteran Services Center hosts veteran services virtual orientation sessions specifically for our new military-affiliated students prior to the start of every term,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez said the school’s Student Veterans Association is part of the National Student Veterans of America organization, which aims to provide peer-to-peer support.
Suzy Irwin, Texarkana College’s executive director of institutional advancement, said the college has 60 students who are veterans or the dependents of veterans.
“Some of the more popular courses of studies are technical trades, such as mechatronics, welding, diesel mechanics, construction, along with academic programs in technology, engineering and health sciences,” Irwin said. “In fall 2024, TC will begin offering Aviation Airframe & Powerplant Mechanics certification program that is anticipated to be very popular with veterans. The instructor, Brandon Sanders, is a veteran and now serves as a battalion chaplain in the National Guard.”
Irwin said veterans and military families are welcome at TC. “We have a dedicated landing page on the TC website for veterans and their dependents, and a dedicated contact on campus to assist with veteran services,” Irwin said. “The TC Financial Aid and Veteran Services Office is also available to help veterans and dependents navigate the college admissions process, apply for and use GI bill benefits or the Hazlewood Act through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and attend Texarkana College.”
Irwin said whether veterans are just now transitioning out of military life or seeking a degree decades after discharge, the college advocates for them.