My education journey began in 2014 after I separated from the Air Force. That’s when I took advantage of VA education benefits.
The process of using these benefits was straightforward. After selecting my school, I was paired with a representative who specialized in helping Veterans use the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill®. With my representative’s guidance, I devised an education plan to obtain a B.S. in political science with a minor in public administration, and an M.S. in management and leadership.
The Post-9/11 G.I. Bill played a pivotal role in my success today. I was able to break the education-less cycle in my family by becoming a first-generation college graduate; soon I’l become the first in my family to earn a doctoral degree. This is important to me, but my education has also opened a professional door that would not have been available to me with out it: I’m also a VA employee.
As a management analyst with the Veterans Benefits Administration, I develop digital content to inform Veterans of their education benefits. My education has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to become a social agent in my community, where I can help community leaders develop solutions that will have a positive impact in the community.
Without the G.I. Bill, I wouldn’t have been able to complete my graduate or postgraduate degrees; I wouldn’t have been able to avoid student loan debt.
One thing I wish I had known earlier was the variety of education benefits offered by VA. In addition to the Post-9/11 benefits, I also utilized the Yellow Ribbon program. It was easy to learn about these options on VA.gov: any Veteran can simply research and study the various VA benefits on the website before applying for them.
When applying for education benefits, Veterans should also remember that it is a process. They should find the benefit that best fits their needs, as different programs have different eligibility criteria. Considering a degree program can help Veterans select a VA education program that aligns with their career goals, interests and skillsets, ensuring that they make the most of their opportunities.
My success comes from faith and family; they provided me the support and motivation I needed to keep going. If that story sounds like yours, then now is the time to take charge of your education journey. Embrace the wealth of information available at your fingertips to research, plan and pursue the degree program of your dreams. The G.I. Bill can jump-start your education and set you on a path to success.
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Thanks for the educational information, which I find helpful. I will check it out. Is it a certain military era which a veteran can qualify for the educational benefit?
Sunomia Haines
WONDERFUL story, Dariell. Congratulations! You are an example to those with whom you associate, as well as those who read your story. The greatest treasure we possess, beyond faith and family, is knowledge, and you are proof of that. Thank you for your service then and now!
I cannot find the words to express how proud I am of you. I honor you for putting your ambition in motion …in such a way that swings open the door of personal/professional development wide open for others. Kudos to you!
What small amount that we will get, still will make it hard for veterans and families to survive in this day and age. The cost of living only goes up and will never come down in our lifetime. Why don’t all the politicians that make Big $$$ step into the shoes of us veterans for a year on what we are compensated for, serving, protecting and dying for our country. It is ashame that Washington does to us, they constantly get raises & perks. What about all the billions of dollars that is sent to other counties, what about us here in the US, that need the better benefits to survive? My wife of 69 years & I are struggling to survive, may lose our home & homeless unless the people in Washington get off their butts step up for us veterans!
After you’ve paid in your portion the benefit shouldn’t expire. I was going to let my kids use mine, but I guess it disappearesif not used in the VA’s timeliness. Should at least be refunded, not just kept.
Hi Dariell – Congratulations on an amazing academic journey and thank you for your service! Would love to connect with you!