MiraCosta VetSuccess Program to Grow

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has announced it has expanded the availability of services through the VetSuccess on Campus Program. MiraCosta College now is one of 94 campuses nationwide to provide this on-site support to veterans transitioning to student life.

“VetSuccess on Campus is an innovative approach to help Veterans in the often difficult transition from military service to academic life,” said Allison A. Hickey, VA’s under secretary for benefits. “Placing experienced VA counselors directly on college campuses strengthens VA’s partnership with institutions of higher learning and creates myriad opportunities to help Veterans succeed.”

The counselors maintain close relationships with local VA Vet Centers and VA medical facilities, referring Veterans as needed for counseling or medical services and providing assistance enrolling in and applying for VA medical and non-medical benefits.  Partner schools provide on-campus office space for the VA counselors. 

Partner schools are selected for the size of their student Veteran population and proximity to a VA Regional Office, Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Service office, Vet Center or VA medical center, among other factors.

“MiraCosta College is fortunate to be a part of the VETSuccess on Campus program. We always strive to provide all the services we can so our student/veterans have every advantage to succeed in college and civilian life,” said MiraCosta College Superintendent/President Dr. Francisco Rodriguez.

Brenda Olsen is MiraCosta College’s VA counselor and she works 40 hours a week at the college’s Oceanside Campus, located at 1 Barnard Drive.

For more information on the VetSuccess program visit their website or call 760.757.2121, x6285 for the MiraCosta College Veterans Services Office.