Military and Veteran Services Office Promotes Community

After a backpacking trip reignited his passion for the outdoors, Kyle Brekke decided to study forestry at UM. Now, the U.S. Marine veteran from Minnesota is on track to graduate in spring 2023 and begin working in timber sales with the U.S. Forest Service.

During his first month at UM, Brekke secured a job with UM’s Military and Veteran Services Office and launched the Student Veterans Organization. In this Q&A, Brekke shares how the office is helping him pursue a degree and support his peers as they transition to university life.

How does the Military and Veteran Services Office help students achieve their academic and professional goals?

The office counsels students on processing their VA Education Benefits, provides academic advising for transitioning service members and helps students network with local veterans. It also serves as a gathering place, with computers and printers, where student veterans meet and study.

What motivated you to start the Student Veterans Organization?

We wanted to help make the adjustment from serving in the military to becoming a student less intimidating. We act as mentors, give voice to student veterans and connect them with resources on campus.

How do you envision this organization will impact students and the community?

One goal is to start an ambassador program to match new students with peer mentors in their academic programs. We also hope to build an alumni network to ensure military and veteran students succeed after they graduate. Additionally, we would like to provide a centralized hub on campus where VA representatives advise students about health-care, counseling, disability accommodations and other resources.

Why is it critical that the Military and Veteran Services Office ensures students succeed during their time at UM?

Expanding opportunities for veterans to pursue higher education and share our diverse experience and skills with civilians strengthens our entire community. When donors support our office, they improve access to tools that help us persist to graduation and enrich others’ lives.

You Can Help

To learn more and support the Military and Veteran Services Office, contact Mandy Brooks, director of development for university priorities, at mandy.brooks@supportum.org.