1 Virginia Commonwealth University USS RAMS University Support Services for Returning and Active Military Students “GREEN ZONE PROGRAM” An initiative to

11

Virginia Commonwealth University

USS RAMS University Support Services for Returning and Active Military Students

“GREEN ZONE PROGRAM”

An initiative to support student veterans

Program development funded by the Aurora Foundation (http://www.aurora4vets.org/index.html) and the Virginia

Wounded Warriors Program (http://www.wearevirginiaveterans.org/)

For more information contact: [email protected]

Modeled on the “Safe Zone” program, volunteers in the Modeled on the “Safe Zone” program, volunteers in the Green ZoneGreen Zone program receive training about issues program receive training about issues potentially facing student veterans. They then agree to potentially facing student veterans. They then agree to display the display the Green ZoneGreen Zone sticker outside their office doors to sticker outside their office doors to let others know they are available to provide support and let others know they are available to provide support and information about resources for student veterans, active information about resources for student veterans, active service military students and their family members.service military students and their family members.

With proper attribution, you are free to modify and use With proper attribution, you are free to modify and use these powerpoint slides for the training of volunteers as you these powerpoint slides for the training of volunteers as you

develop your own ‘Green Zone’ programdevelop your own ‘Green Zone’ program. . 22

““Green Zone”Green Zone”A location recognized by veterans as A location recognized by veterans as

a safe placea safe place

Training OutlineTraining Outline

33

Who is a Green Zone Volunteer?

Staff and faculty who identify themselves as someone who knows something about the issues

and concerns faced by student veterans/active military students

as someone who is available to assist the veteran student

They are NOT expected to be experts who can “solve” the problems a sympathetic ear someone who can help the student find the

appropriate resources for problem resolution.

Commonly Used TermsCommonly Used Terms

Active Service Members (ASM)Active Service Members (ASM) Generic term which encompasses Active Duty, Generic term which encompasses Active Duty,

National Guard, and Reserves personnelNational Guard, and Reserves personnel VeteranVeteran

Any individual who served in the U.S. militaryAny individual who served in the U.S. military OEF- Operation Enduring FreedomOEF- Operation Enduring Freedom

War in AfghanistanWar in Afghanistan OIF- Operation Iraqi FreedomOIF- Operation Iraqi Freedom

War in Iraq War in Iraq

55

Who is a Student Who is a Student Veteran/Active Service Veteran/Active Service Member (ASM)? Member (ASM)?

Student Veterans and ASMs are a diverse group Student Veterans and ASMs are a diverse group of individuals. They are: of individuals. They are: From all branches of the militaryFrom all branches of the military Range in age, race/ethnicity, and genderRange in age, race/ethnicity, and gender Have served during times of war and peaceHave served during times of war and peace Have different education goalsHave different education goals More likely to have familiesMore likely to have families

66

Student Veterans/ASMs-Student Veterans/ASMs-on Campuson Campus

[[Insert information about numbers, age, Insert information about numbers, age, race/ethnicity, gender, majors, and other race/ethnicity, gender, majors, and other information about veterans and active information about veterans and active service military students on your campus service military students on your campus that may be of interest to your volunteersthat may be of interest to your volunteers ]]

77

The Military The Military ExperienceExperience

88

Military ExperienceMilitary Experience[your state] Statistics[your state] Statistics

[insert data about numbers of individuals [insert data about numbers of individuals deployed in your state, region, local area deployed in your state, region, local area to provide participants with some sense to provide participants with some sense of the potential pool of veterans who of the potential pool of veterans who could be attending your institution.]could be attending your institution.]

99

Military ExperienceMilitary Experience

Separation from family or loved onesSeparation from family or loved ones Most are leaving home for the first timeMost are leaving home for the first time Separation from extended family and close friendsSeparation from extended family and close friends Separation from boyfriends and girlfriendsSeparation from boyfriends and girlfriends

Relocate away from family and friendsRelocate away from family and friends May be assigned to a base in a different part of the May be assigned to a base in a different part of the

countrycountry Adjustments to new climates and cultureAdjustments to new climates and culture

1010

Military ExperienceMilitary ExperienceDeploymentsDeployments

Deployments last from 6-18 monthsDeployments last from 6-18 months Multiple deploymentsMultiple deployments

Some serve more than one deployment before Some serve more than one deployment before being discharged from the militarybeing discharged from the military Over 350,000 have experienced two or more Over 350,000 have experienced two or more

deploymentsdeployments

Emotional Cycle of Deployment:Emotional Cycle of Deployment: Pre-Deployment, Deployment, Sustainment, Re-Pre-Deployment, Deployment, Sustainment, Re-

Deployment, Post-DeploymentDeployment, Post-Deployment

***(Savych, 2009) 1111

SustainmentNew routines establishedNew sources of support

Feel more in controlIndependence

Confidence: “I can do this!”

Deployment Mixed emotions/relief

Disoriented/overwhelmed Numb, sad, alone Sleep difficulties Security issues

Post-DeploymentHoneymoon period

Loss of independenceNeed for “own” spaceRenegotiating routines

Reintegration into family

RedeploymentAnticipation of homecoming

ExcitementApprehension

Burst of energy/”nesting”Difficulty making decisions

Pre-Deployment Anticipation of loss vs Denial

Train-up/long hours away Getting affairs in order

Mental/physical distance Arguments

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of DeploymentDeployment

*** (Franklin, 2009)1212

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of Deployment: Pre-DeploymentDeployment: Pre-Deployment

Training with long hours awayTraining with long hours away Spending more time in the field to prepare for deploymentSpending more time in the field to prepare for deployment Separation from family and friends before deploymentSeparation from family and friends before deployment

Getting affairs in orderGetting affairs in order Preparing a living will and assigning a power of attorney Preparing a living will and assigning a power of attorney

National Guard and ReservistsNational Guard and Reservists Added stress during semester due to anticipation of Added stress during semester due to anticipation of

deploymentdeployment May be called to duty while enrolled in classesMay be called to duty while enrolled in classes Having to file paperwork to withdraw from classes and stop Having to file paperwork to withdraw from classes and stop

G.I. Bill payments G.I. Bill payments

*** (Franklin, 2009) 1313

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of Deployment: DeploymentDeployment: Deployment

Adjusting to being in a combat zone, on a ship, or Adjusting to being in a combat zone, on a ship, or aircraftaircraft

Adjusting to new climate, terrain, and languageAdjusting to new climate, terrain, and language Dealing with emotions regarding separation from Dealing with emotions regarding separation from

family, friends, and partnersfamily, friends, and partners Maintaining a strong sense of awarenessMaintaining a strong sense of awareness

HypervigilanceHypervigilance

Must maintain some level of emotional controlMust maintain some level of emotional control May not be able to react immediately to loss/trauma but are May not be able to react immediately to loss/trauma but are

encouraged to deal with loss/trauma while deployed and upon encouraged to deal with loss/trauma while deployed and upon returnreturn

*** (Franklin, 2009) 1414

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of Deployment: DeploymentDeployment: Deployment

Persistent hypervigilance and arousal Persistent hypervigilance and arousal Sleep deprivation- fatigueSleep deprivation- fatigue Periods of intense boredomPeriods of intense boredom Some have experiencedSome have experienced

FirefightsFirefights Buddies wounded or killed Buddies wounded or killed RPGs: Rocket Propelled Grenades RPGs: Rocket Propelled Grenades IEDs: Improvised Explosive Devices IEDs: Improvised Explosive Devices Car bombsCar bombs Suicide bombingsSuicide bombings Crowd controlCrowd control

***(Hoge et al., 2004)1515

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of Deployment: Post-DeploymentDeployment: Post-Deployment

HomecomingHomecoming The “honeymoon” stage is when first returning home to family The “honeymoon” stage is when first returning home to family

and friendsand friends Difficult adjustment phase for both ASM and familyDifficult adjustment phase for both ASM and family

Family has adapted to life without ASM and now has to re-Family has adapted to life without ASM and now has to re-establish rolesestablish roles

Adaptive behaviors for war are maladaptive at homeAdaptive behaviors for war are maladaptive at home Aggressive driving = Road RageAggressive driving = Road Rage Tactical Awareness = HypervigilanceTactical Awareness = Hypervigilance

Develop a “New Normal”Develop a “New Normal” Adjusting to life after it has changedAdjusting to life after it has changed

Dealing with the emotions of warDealing with the emotions of war

*** (Franklin, 2009) 1616

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of Deployment: Family Deployment: Family members/Dependentsmembers/Dependents

Family members or dependents of Veterans/ASM may need support too They may be experiencing

Separation from a loved one Difficulty concentrating Difficulty transitioning Difficulty adjusting to role changes Loss or injuries of a loved one

1717

Transitioning from Transitioning from Base to CampusBase to Campus

1818

Transition StrengthsTransition Strengths

Veterans/ASMs transitioning out of the military onto Veterans/ASMs transitioning out of the military onto college campuses bring a unique perspectivecollege campuses bring a unique perspective Military trainingMilitary training Life experienceLife experience Established IdentityEstablished Identity A more worldly viewA more worldly view

Skills taught in the military help students to be successfulSkills taught in the military help students to be successful LeadershipLeadership MotivationMotivation Time ManagementTime Management Work EthicWork Ethic Stress ManagementStress Management

1919

Transition DifficultiesTransition Difficulties

Issues that may arise during the transition process Issues that may arise during the transition process can become barriers to successcan become barriers to success Difficulty translating their military skills into a new professionDifficulty translating their military skills into a new profession Difficulty switching gears with a new focus that is unrelated to Difficulty switching gears with a new focus that is unrelated to

military experiencemilitary experience Military skills & training may not translate into college creditsMilitary skills & training may not translate into college credits Universities may have difficulty deciphering transfer credits for Universities may have difficulty deciphering transfer credits for

those who have started and stopped higher education at those who have started and stopped higher education at multiple institutionsmultiple institutions

Difficulty using the GI BillDifficulty using the GI Bill Late fees due to late payment of VA BenefitsLate fees due to late payment of VA Benefits Late payment can prevent them from registering for Late payment can prevent them from registering for

classes, applying for graduation, and receiving transcripts classes, applying for graduation, and receiving transcripts

2020


Being an older studentBeing an older student Freshman 20+ years old with 18 year old classmatesFreshman 20+ years old with 18 year old classmates

Living off campusLiving off campus Feeling isolated from classmatesFeeling isolated from classmates

AlienationAlienation Veterans/ASMs may find it difficult to integrate on campus Veterans/ASMs may find it difficult to integrate on campus

because their life experiences within the military differ because their life experiences within the military differ significantly from most other students and faculty.significantly from most other students and faculty.

Insensitivity of classmates, faculty, and others on Insensitivity of classmates, faculty, and others on campus in regards to discussion of war and militarycampus in regards to discussion of war and military Veterans/ASMs may not agree with discussions or may feel attacked Veterans/ASMs may not agree with discussions or may feel attacked

when asked about their experiencewhen asked about their experience

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Things to keep in mind about Student Things to keep in mind about Student Veterans in the classroom:Veterans in the classroom: Some may Some may

Have difficulty relating to classmatesHave difficulty relating to classmates Find loud noises to be disturbing Find loud noises to be disturbing Become anxious with changes in the Become anxious with changes in the

classroomclassroom Have excessive absencesHave excessive absences Have PTSD or TBIHave PTSD or TBI

***(Pfeffer, 2010) 2222

Considering the Needs of Considering the Needs of Student Veterans with Student Veterans with DisabilitiesDisabilities

It is estimated that 23% to 31% of Veterans/ASM It is estimated that 23% to 31% of Veterans/ASM of OIF/OEF have PTSD symptoms and 20% have of OIF/OEF have PTSD symptoms and 20% have mild TBIs. Some of those are coming to our mild TBIs. Some of those are coming to our campus.campus. New DisabilityNew Disability

Student Veterans/ASMs may be experiencing a disability Student Veterans/ASMs may be experiencing a disability for the first time in their lifefor the first time in their life

May be unaware of services on campus for persons May be unaware of services on campus for persons with an identified disabilitywith an identified disability

May not want to identify as having a disabilityMay not want to identify as having a disability May not want to disclose problems because of stigmaMay not want to disclose problems because of stigma Identification of disability may have implications for future Identification of disability may have implications for future

in the military for those who are still active service in the military for those who are still active service membersmembers

*** (Jones, Young, & Leppma, 2010; Thomas et al., 2010)*** (Jones, Young, & Leppma, 2010; Thomas et al., 2010)2323

Post-Traumatic Stress Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD occurs after an individual has seen PTSD occurs after an individual has seen or experienced a traumatic event that or experienced a traumatic event that involved the threat of injury or death involved the threat of injury or death

PTSD is experienced by some, but PTSD is experienced by some, but certainly not all Student Veterans/ASMscertainly not all Student Veterans/ASMs Have some knowledge of PTSD, Have some knowledge of PTSD, BUT do not BUT do not

expect expect that every Student Veteran/ASM will that every Student Veteran/ASM will have these symptomshave these symptoms

***(American Psychiatric Association, 2000)***(American Psychiatric Association, 2000)2424

PTSD SymptomsPTSD Symptoms

Repeated "reliving" of the event, which disturbs Repeated "reliving" of the event, which disturbs day-to-day activityday-to-day activity Flashback episodes, where the event seems to be Flashback episodes, where the event seems to be

happening again and againhappening again and again

AvoidanceAvoidance Emotional "numbing," or feeling as though Emotional "numbing," or feeling as though

you do not care about anythingyou do not care about anything ArousalArousal

Excess awareness (hypervigilance)Excess awareness (hypervigilance)

***(American Psychiatric Association, 2000)***(American Psychiatric Association, 2000)2525

PTSD in the ClassroomPTSD in the Classroom

They may They may Sit in the back of the classroom so they can Sit in the back of the classroom so they can

have a clear view of everything around themhave a clear view of everything around them Be easily startled by noises (pens dropping, Be easily startled by noises (pens dropping,

shuffling in a backpack, whispering or other shuffling in a backpack, whispering or other noises from classmates) noises from classmates)

Be withdrawn from class discussionBe withdrawn from class discussion Have difficulty maintaining emotional control Have difficulty maintaining emotional control

during difficult topics during difficult topics 2626

Post-Traumatic Stress Post-Traumatic Stress DisorderDisorder

Remember: although many Remember: although many Veterans/ASMs may have stressful or Veterans/ASMs may have stressful or traumatic experiences, not all develop traumatic experiences, not all develop Post-Traumatic Stress DisorderPost-Traumatic Stress Disorder

2727

Traumatic Brain Injury Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)(TBI)

A blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head A blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the function of the brain. injury that disrupts the function of the brain. Severity of injury can varySeverity of injury can vary

Mild: brief change in mental status or consciousnessMild: brief change in mental status or consciousness Severe: extended period of unconsciousness or Severe: extended period of unconsciousness or

amnesia after the injuryamnesia after the injury

Some, but certainly not all Student Veterans, Some, but certainly not all Student Veterans, may have experienced a TBImay have experienced a TBI Have some knowledge of TBI, Have some knowledge of TBI, BUT do not expectBUT do not expect

that all Student Veterans/ASMs will have that all Student Veterans/ASMs will have experienced a TBIexperienced a TBI

***(Traumaticbraininjury.com, 2010) 2828

Traumatic Brain InjuryTraumatic Brain Injury

Combat experience is one of the main risk factors for Combat experience is one of the main risk factors for sustaining a TBIsustaining a TBI Exposure to blasts through explosions and roadside bombsExposure to blasts through explosions and roadside bombs

Improvements in body armor and helmets have Improvements in body armor and helmets have increased the occurrence of TBIincreased the occurrence of TBI Likelihood of survival from blasts due to sophisticated Likelihood of survival from blasts due to sophisticated

equipment, unlike from previous warsequipment, unlike from previous wars TBI often goes undiagnosed because symptoms TBI often goes undiagnosed because symptoms

may not appear until weeks latermay not appear until weeks later Especially emotional or personality changes which are difficult Especially emotional or personality changes which are difficult

for strangers to identifyfor strangers to identify Difficult to differentiate between TBI and PTSD because they Difficult to differentiate between TBI and PTSD because they

have several overlapping symptomshave several overlapping symptoms


TBI SymptomsTBI Symptoms

CognitionCognition Motor/Sensory DisturbancesMotor/Sensory Disturbances Impairments in: Impairments in:

LanguageLanguage CommunicationCommunication AttentionAttention ConcentrationConcentration MemoryMemory Learning New InformationLearning New Information Speed of Information ProcessingSpeed of Information Processing JudgmentJudgment Decision-MakingDecision-Making Problem-SolvingProblem-Solving InsightInsight


TBI SymptomsTBI Symptoms

MoodMood Apathy/DepressionApathy/Depression AnxietyAnxiety IrritabilityIrritability Emotional LiabilityEmotional Liability InsensitivityInsensitivity EgocentricityEgocentricity

BehaviorBehavior Lack of InitiationLack of Initiation DisinhibitionDisinhibition ImpulsivityImpulsivity RestlessnessRestlessness AggressionAggression AgitationAgitation


TBI in the ClassroomTBI in the Classroom

They mayThey may Have difficulty expressing themselves (tongue Have difficulty expressing themselves (tongue

tied) tied) Show restless behaviorsShow restless behaviors

Example: Constant fidgeting and tapping pens or feetExample: Constant fidgeting and tapping pens or feet

Show inappropriate reactions to discussion Show inappropriate reactions to discussion Example: Becoming aggressive, easily irritated, agitated, Example: Becoming aggressive, easily irritated, agitated,

or insensitive to others in the classroomor insensitive to others in the classroom

Be withdrawn or not participating in class Be withdrawn or not participating in class discussiondiscussion

3232

Other Wounds of WarOther Wounds of War

Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) A spinal cord injury occurs when trauma or disease A spinal cord injury occurs when trauma or disease

damages the spinal cord and results in partial or damages the spinal cord and results in partial or complete paralysiscomplete paralysis

Military Sexual Trauma (MST)Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Includes sexual assault, sexual threats, bullying, Includes sexual assault, sexual threats, bullying,

and unwanted touching or grabbing that and unwanted touching or grabbing that occurred while in the militaryoccurred while in the military

***(Spinal Cord Injuries, 2010; VA MST, 2010)***(Spinal Cord Injuries, 2010; VA MST, 2010)3333

Considering the Needs of Student Considering the Needs of Student Veterans with DisabilitiesVeterans with Disabilities

What the Green Zone volunteers should know:What the Green Zone volunteers should know: Do not ask or suggest that the Student Veteran/ASM Do not ask or suggest that the Student Veteran/ASM

has a disability, but inquire about the issues they are has a disability, but inquire about the issues they are experiencing to better provide the appropriate resourcesexperiencing to better provide the appropriate resources

Become familiar with information provided by the students Become familiar with information provided by the students with disabilities support office on campus for those who may with disabilities support office on campus for those who may request such services request such services Students may need extra help navigating the system and Students may need extra help navigating the system and

understanding what help is available to them understanding what help is available to them Provide the student with contact information if requested for Provide the student with contact information if requested for

office serving students with disabilitiesoffice serving students with disabilities Assist in making an appointment, if neededAssist in making an appointment, if needed

3434

Considering the Needs of Considering the Needs of Student Veterans with Student Veterans with DisabilitiesDisabilities

Services on CampusServices on Campus

[insert information about services for students [insert information about services for students with disabilities on your campus]with disabilities on your campus]

3535

Easing the TransitionEasing the Transition

Have an open dialogue about frustrationsHave an open dialogue about frustrations Discuss career goalsDiscuss career goals Provide them with information about various Provide them with information about various

services and resources available as seems services and resources available as seems appropriate appropriate

[list offices that provide services for veterans on your [list offices that provide services for veterans on your campus and in your community]campus and in your community]

Remember that each student is unique in their Remember that each student is unique in their experiencesexperiences

3636

Suggested Questions To Ask The Suggested Questions To Ask The Veteran In Front Of YouVeteran In Front Of You

Express appreciation for their service Express appreciation for their service What branch of serviceWhat branch of service How long they were in the military How long they were in the military What was your job or specialtyWhat was your job or specialty How many deploymentsHow many deployments

When, where, how longWhen, where, how long How has your experience at the university beenHow has your experience at the university been Could you be called back to active dutyCould you be called back to active duty Can you still be deployedCan you still be deployed Do not ask if they have killed someoneDo not ask if they have killed someone Do not ask how they were injuredDo not ask how they were injured

3737

Questions To Ask The Questions To Ask The Veteran In Front Of YouVeteran In Front Of You

IF A SERVICE MEMBER OR VETERAN IF A SERVICE MEMBER OR VETERAN OPENLY DISCUSSES HIS OR HER OPENLY DISCUSSES HIS OR HER

EXPERIENCE: DO NOT INTERRUPT, EXPERIENCE: DO NOT INTERRUPT, DO NOT MINIMIZE, DO NOT INJECT DO NOT MINIMIZE, DO NOT INJECT YOUR POLITICAL BELIEFS ABOUT YOUR POLITICAL BELIEFS ABOUT

THE WAR. THE WAR.

JUST LISTENJUST LISTEN3838

Easing the TransitionEasing the Transition

What Student Veterans want faculty to know:What Student Veterans want faculty to know: ““We are having normal reactions to an abnormal experience.”We are having normal reactions to an abnormal experience.” ““No two veterans are alike.”No two veterans are alike.” ““Each of us has had different experiences.”Each of us has had different experiences.” ““Do Not assume that you know my politics or beliefs just because I Do Not assume that you know my politics or beliefs just because I

was in the military.”was in the military.” ““I may or may not be ready to talk about my experiences.”I may or may not be ready to talk about my experiences.” ““Trust can be an issue for me.”Trust can be an issue for me.” ““Being friendly and listening can go a long way toward building Being friendly and listening can go a long way toward building

trust.”trust.” ““Do Not be afraid of me.”Do Not be afraid of me.” ““We are accustomed to being successful and may be too proud to We are accustomed to being successful and may be too proud to

ask for help.”ask for help.”

***(Pfeffer, 2010)3939

Things to RememberThings to Remember

Students veterans are a unique population with Students veterans are a unique population with different experiences.different experiences.

There are numerous ways to help Student There are numerous ways to help Student Veterans/ASM just as there are for other Veterans/ASM just as there are for other student populations. student populations.

Developing trust with this population is Developing trust with this population is important.important.

Following-up with the Student Veterans/ASM Following-up with the Student Veterans/ASM and carrying out what you say you will do is and carrying out what you say you will do is essential. essential.

4040

Discussion instructionsDiscussion instructionsthe following slides present various scenarios the following slides present various scenarios

developed from “real life” experiences of student developed from “real life” experiences of student veterans on campus. After each scenario is a veterans on campus. After each scenario is a slide that presents options of how a volunteer slide that presents options of how a volunteer might respond. These options should be might respond. These options should be reviewed and modified to fit with resources on reviewed and modified to fit with resources on your campus. your campus.

In the training, participants are put into small In the training, participants are put into small groups to discuss each scenario and how they groups to discuss each scenario and how they might respond; after the group discussion, the might respond; after the group discussion, the response option slides are reviewed. The response option slides are reviewed. The discussions are enhanced by the inclusion of discussions are enhanced by the inclusion of student veterans in each group.student veterans in each group.

4141

DiscussionDiscussion

ScenarioScenario A Student Veteran approaches you because A Student Veteran approaches you because

she is struggling in her classes. She goes to she is struggling in her classes. She goes to class every day, takes notes, and allots time class every day, takes notes, and allots time each day to study. She feels frustrated each day to study. She feels frustrated because no matter how much time she puts because no matter how much time she puts into it, she is not getting the grades she into it, she is not getting the grades she wants. wants.

How do you help her? How do you help her?

4242

DiscussionDiscussion Ask the veteran if she has always had difficulties with school work, or if Ask the veteran if she has always had difficulties with school work, or if

this is new for herthis is new for her Assist the veteran in searching for classroom help Assist the veteran in searching for classroom help

Tell her about the Learning and Writing CentersTell her about the Learning and Writing Centers Learning Center has one-on-one tutoring & supplemental instruction sessions Learning Center has one-on-one tutoring & supplemental instruction sessions

Ask her if she is in a study group or would want to join oneAsk her if she is in a study group or would want to join one Recommend talking to her instructor or T.A.Recommend talking to her instructor or T.A.

If she acknowledges that she has a disability, ask if she has gone to the If she acknowledges that she has a disability, ask if she has gone to the Disability Support Services Office to see if she is eligible for Disability Support Services Office to see if she is eligible for accommodations accommodations

Suggest peer mentoringSuggest peer mentoring Have a discussion about her well beingHave a discussion about her well being

Is she sleeping and eating well?Is she sleeping and eating well?

Have a discussion about her academic success and implications for her Have a discussion about her academic success and implications for her GI BillGI Bill

4343


ScenarioScenario A Reservist sees the “Green Zone” sticker A Reservist sees the “Green Zone” sticker

on your door and comes in because she has on your door and comes in because she has received orders for a week long training that received orders for a week long training that will occur during the middle of the semester. will occur during the middle of the semester. She has an exam during that week and her She has an exam during that week and her professor states in the syllabus that there professor states in the syllabus that there are absolutely no make-up exams.are absolutely no make-up exams.

4444


Inform the student that she must provide Inform the student that she must provide documentation of her orders to the professor documentation of her orders to the professor as soon as she receives themas soon as she receives them

Encourage her to talk to her professorEncourage her to talk to her professor Encourage her to meet with her Encourage her to meet with her

academic/facultyacademic/faculty Review the policy related to attendance and Review the policy related to attendance and

short-term military trainingshort-term military training

4545


ScenarioScenario A student comes to your office because he A student comes to your office because he

is experiencing problems with his G.I. Bill. is experiencing problems with his G.I. Bill. Because of his unpaid tuition, there is a hold Because of his unpaid tuition, there is a hold on his account and he is unable to register on his account and he is unable to register for classes he needs to graduate.for classes he needs to graduate.

4646


Encourage him to go to Student Accounting to Encourage him to go to Student Accounting to discuss his situationdiscuss his situation

Encourage him to talk to the Veteran Encourage him to talk to the Veteran Certification OfficeCertification Office

Encourage him to talk to his academic/faculty Encourage him to talk to his academic/faculty to see if they could hold a spot in the to see if they could hold a spot in the classroom for himclassroom for him

4747


ScenarioScenario A student Reservist comes to your office and A student Reservist comes to your office and

is anticipating being deployed. He is unsure is anticipating being deployed. He is unsure whether it will be before the end of the whether it will be before the end of the semester and is unaware of how he should semester and is unaware of how he should proceed. proceed.

4848

DiscussionDiscussion Review with the student the university policy regarding Review with the student the university policy regarding

options for activity duty military students who are options for activity duty military students who are deployeddeployed http://www.provost.vcu.edu/pdfs/CourseCreditActive

DutyMilitaryStudents.pdf Encourage him to talk to his academic/faculty and Encourage him to talk to his academic/faculty and

professorprofessor Discuss options for incomplete grades Discuss options for incomplete grades Discuss available online coursesDiscuss available online courses Discuss completing work earlyDiscuss completing work early Military Withdraw or Military Incompletes are available Military Withdraw or Military Incompletes are available

and need to be taken care of before he leavesand need to be taken care of before he leaves

4949

Talk with the ASM about the upcoming deploymentTalk with the ASM about the upcoming deployment

Discuss his or her fears and hopes of the deployment Discuss his or her fears and hopes of the deployment Understand that the ASM is under a lot of pressure and time Understand that the ASM is under a lot of pressure and time

restraintsrestraints It may seem more important to faculty members to discuss It may seem more important to faculty members to discuss

withdrawing from classes, but remember the ASM is withdrawing from classes, but remember the ASM is preparing for warpreparing for war

There are other things that take greater importanceThere are other things that take greater importance

Stay in contact with the student to assure he receives Stay in contact with the student to assure he receives the assistance he needsthe assistance he needs

Discussion Continued


ScenarioScenario A Student Veteran comes to your office to A Student Veteran comes to your office to

discuss her GPA. When deployed, she did discuss her GPA. When deployed, she did not withdraw from classes and received not withdraw from classes and received failing grades. Since restarting school and failing grades. Since restarting school and no longer being in the military, she has no longer being in the military, she has consistently received good grades but due to consistently received good grades but due to the past, her GPA is affecting her financial the past, her GPA is affecting her financial aid status. aid status.

5151


Encourage her to talk to Financial AidEncourage her to talk to Financial Aid Encourage her to talk to her Encourage her to talk to her

academic/facultyacademic/faculty Encourage her to learn about the appeals Encourage her to learn about the appeals

processprocess If needed, help her draft an appeals letterIf needed, help her draft an appeals letter

5252

Discussion Discussion

Scenario Scenario A Student Veteran comes to you because he A Student Veteran comes to you because he

is frustrated about his classes. The material is frustrated about his classes. The material he is learning is exactly what he learned he is learning is exactly what he learned while he was in the military. He does not while he was in the military. He does not understand why he has to repeat the course. understand why he has to repeat the course.

What do you do? What do you do?

5353


Empathize with his frustrations Empathize with his frustrations Treat this student like any other advisee who has come Treat this student like any other advisee who has come

to you with an issueto you with an issue Explain the advantages of already having the experience Explain the advantages of already having the experience

and knowledge and knowledge Explain how he can help others in his class and take a Explain how he can help others in his class and take a

leadership role leadership role Ask questions about his major and experience in the Ask questions about his major and experience in the

militarymilitary Help him schedule an appointment with his Help him schedule an appointment with his

academic/faculty academic/faculty 5454


ScenarioScenario A Student Veteran comes to you because he A Student Veteran comes to you because he

feels very alone on campus. He was use to feels very alone on campus. He was use to being constantly surrounded by individuals being constantly surrounded by individuals who share his goals and values. Since he who share his goals and values. Since he has come to campus, he has not met has come to campus, he has not met anyone like that. He feels isolated and anyone like that. He feels isolated and alone. alone.

How do you help this student? How do you help this student?

5555


Inform him of what resources are available on campusInform him of what resources are available on campus Help link the Veteran to other VeteransHelp link the Veteran to other Veterans

Student Veteran Association, and Veteran Certification Office Student Veteran Association, and Veteran Certification Office Introducing the Veteran to other Student Veterans may allow him to Introducing the Veteran to other Student Veterans may allow him to

develop a social network on campus.develop a social network on campus.

Ask the Veteran what interests him or herAsk the Veteran what interests him or her Suggest joining student groups on campus that have similar Suggest joining student groups on campus that have similar

interests.interests. Follow-up with studentFollow-up with student

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ScenarioScenario A Student Veteran sees the “Green Zone” A Student Veteran sees the “Green Zone”

sticker on your door and decides to stop in sticker on your door and decides to stop in to chat. She is having difficulty deciding on a to chat. She is having difficulty deciding on a major. She has a lot of skills from her major. She has a lot of skills from her military experience but is not sure she wants military experience but is not sure she wants to stay on that path. to stay on that path.

How do you help her? How do you help her?

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Under the G.I. Bill requirements, Student Veterans must declare a major Under the G.I. Bill requirements, Student Veterans must declare a major within two semesters, which may cause additional stresswithin two semesters, which may cause additional stress

Listen to Student and ask questions about her military training Listen to Student and ask questions about her military training Ask what she enjoyed the most; encourage her think about whether or not Ask what she enjoyed the most; encourage her think about whether or not

she is interested in transitioning those skills into her education and future she is interested in transitioning those skills into her education and future careercareer

Ask her “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” Ask her “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” Suggest to her the Career Center on campusSuggest to her the Career Center on campus Many websites have been created to assist veterans in translating their Many websites have been created to assist veterans in translating their

military skills to civilian jobsmilitary skills to civilian jobs http://www.military.com/skills-translator/mos-translator http://www.careerbuilder.com/Article/CB-517-Job-Search-Translating-Your-Skil

ls-From-Military-Jargon-to-Civilian-Language/

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ScenarioScenario A Student Veteran comes to you for his A Student Veteran comes to you for his

scheduled academic advising appointment. scheduled academic advising appointment. During the session he mentions that he did During the session he mentions that he did two tours in Iraq. two tours in Iraq.

How do you respond? How do you respond?

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DiscussionDiscussion Show interestShow interest If the Veteran wants to talk about his experience, listen If the Veteran wants to talk about his experience, listen

and provide a safe environment to the student. and provide a safe environment to the student. Listening to the Veteran can go a long way toward building Listening to the Veteran can go a long way toward building

rapport.rapport.

If you have limited time to be with the Veteran, If you have limited time to be with the Veteran, express your interest in his service and set up another express your interest in his service and set up another appointment to further discuss his experiencesappointment to further discuss his experiences Ask how his experiences may be helping or hindering his Ask how his experiences may be helping or hindering his

student experiencestudent experience Remember that every situation is going to be differentRemember that every situation is going to be different

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ScenarioScenario A Student Veteran comes to you because he A Student Veteran comes to you because he

is nearly on academic probation. He has is nearly on academic probation. He has trouble getting to class because it is a trouble getting to class because it is a struggle for him to get out of bed most days. struggle for him to get out of bed most days.

How do you help him? How do you help him?

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DiscussionDiscussion Have an open dialogue about the classes that he can Have an open dialogue about the classes that he can

not wake up fornot wake up for It may simply be that he does not have an interest in the classes It may simply be that he does not have an interest in the classes

and can not wake up for themand can not wake up for them Is he struggling with these same issues in other areas of his life?Is he struggling with these same issues in other areas of his life?

Discuss with the student the Wellness Center and Discuss with the student the Wellness Center and Student HealthStudent Health

Provide information about available resources Provide information about available resources Encourage student to meet with his academic/faculty Encourage student to meet with his academic/faculty

advisoradvisor Follow up with the Veteran/ASM to see how he is doingFollow up with the Veteran/ASM to see how he is doing

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ScenarioScenario A Student Veteran who has a spinal cord A Student Veteran who has a spinal cord

injury comes to your office. He read in his injury comes to your office. He read in his syllabus that special accommodations can syllabus that special accommodations can be made for students who have a disability. be made for students who have a disability. He currently does not have any issues in his He currently does not have any issues in his classes but wants more information on how classes but wants more information on how they can help him in the future.they can help him in the future.

How do you help him? How do you help him?

6363


Provide resources to Disability Support Provide resources to Disability Support ServicesServices

Help him schedule an appointment, if Help him schedule an appointment, if neededneeded

6464

ResourcesResources

6565

Resources on CampusResources on Campus

[list resources and contact information that are [list resources and contact information that are available on campus to assist students]available on campus to assist students]

6666

Veterans Administration Veterans Administration ResourcesResources GI BillGI Bill

[put website for GI bill information for your [put website for GI bill information for your state]state]

Provides the veteran with information regarding his or Provides the veteran with information regarding his or her tuition assistance benefitsher tuition assistance benefits

[list any state-level resources][list any state-level resources]

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VA ResourcesVA Resources

Veteran Administration WebsiteVeteran Administration Website www.va.gov Student Veterans need their DD-214 formsStudent Veterans need their DD-214 forms List of VA hospitals and community outreach List of VA hospitals and community outreach

centerscenters Connects Veterans to health benefitsConnects Veterans to health benefits

5 year eligibility for no-cost health care for conditions 5 year eligibility for no-cost health care for conditions related to servicerelated to service

Mental health treatmentMental health treatment Vet Centers for outpatient mental health treatmentVet Centers for outpatient mental health treatment

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Veteran AssociationsVeteran Associations

Wounded Warrior ProjectWounded Warrior Project www.woundedwarriorproject.org Mission “To honor and empower wounded Mission “To honor and empower wounded

warriors.”warriors.” Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

www.vfw.org Its mission is to Its mission is to "honor the dead by helping "honor the dead by helping

the living"the living" through veterans' service, through veterans' service, community service, national security and a community service, national security and a strong national defensestrong national defense

6969

Veteran AssociationsVeteran Associations

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of AmericaIraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America www.iava.org Providing assistance, advocacy, educations, Providing assistance, advocacy, educations,

and support to veterans of both conflictsand support to veterans of both conflicts Disabled Veterans AssociationDisabled Veterans Association

www.dav.org DAV is an advocacy group that helps ensure DAV is an advocacy group that helps ensure

that active duty and veterans receive the that active duty and veterans receive the benefits and compensations that were benefits and compensations that were guaranteed to them when they enlistedguaranteed to them when they enlisted

7070

Community ResourcesCommunity Resources

List any local community resources hereList any local community resources here

7171

PTSD ResourcesPTSD Resources

The National Center for PTSDThe National Center for PTSDhttp://www.ncptsd.va.gov/ncmain/resources/

After Deployment is a mental wellness After Deployment is a mental wellness resource guide for soldiers. resource guide for soldiers. http://afterdeployment.org/http://afterdeployment.org/

PTSD and WomenPTSD and Womenhttp://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/wha/wha_pthttp://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/wha/wha_ptsd_bha.htmsd_bha.htm

7272

TBI ResourcesTBI Resources

Defense and Veterans Brain Injury CenterDefense and Veterans Brain Injury Centerhttp://www.dvbic.org/http://www.dvbic.org/

National Center for Injury Prevention and National Center for Injury Prevention and Control information on TBI Control information on TBI http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/tbi/tbibook.pdfhttp://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/tbi/tbibook.pdf

Soldiers with Traumatic Brain Injury brochureSoldiers with Traumatic Brain Injury brochurehttp://www.neuroskills.com/veterans/soldierswithttp://www.neuroskills.com/veterans/soldierswithtbi.pdf htbi.pdf

7373

SCI ResourcesSCI Resources

VA Spinal Cord InjuryVA Spinal Cord Injury www.sci.va.govwww.sci.va.gov

National Spinal Cord Injury AssociationNational Spinal Cord Injury Association www.spinalcorg.orgwww.spinalcorg.org

7474

Substance Abuse ResourcesSubstance Abuse Resources

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/ http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/

Alcoholics AnonymousAlcoholics Anonymoushttp://www.aa.orghttp://www.aa.org

National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institute on Drug Abuse http://www.nida.nih.gov/http://www.nida.nih.gov/

National Clearinghouse on Alcohol and Drug Information National Clearinghouse on Alcohol and Drug Information http://www.health.gov/http://www.health.gov/

Army Center for Substance Abuse Programs with links to world-wide ASAP locations Army Center for Substance Abuse Programs with links to world-wide ASAP locations http://www.acsap.army.mil/http://www.acsap.army.mil/

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 1-800-662-HELP1-800-662-HELPhttp://getfit.samhsa.gov/Drugs/http://getfit.samhsa.gov/Drugs/http://getfit.samhsa.gov/Alcohol/http://getfit.samhsa.gov/Alcohol/

7575

Military Sexual Trauma Military Sexual Trauma ResourcesResources

VA MST informationVA MST information www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.aspwww.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp

MyDuty.milMyDuty.mil www.myduty.milwww.myduty.mil Provides information and guidance on reporting Provides information and guidance on reporting

MSTMST Military Rape Crisis CenterMilitary Rape Crisis Center

Has a chart for off-base rape crisis centers located Has a chart for off-base rape crisis centers located near military basesnear military bases

www.stopmilitaryrape.org/local_resourceswww.stopmilitaryrape.org/local_resources

7676

Suicide Prevention Suicide Prevention ResourcesResources

The National Suicide Prevention Hotline 1 The National Suicide Prevention Hotline 1 800-273-TALK (8255)800-273-TALK (8255) Press 1 for VeteransPress 1 for Veterans

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention American Foundation for Suicide Prevention http://www.afsp.orghttp://www.afsp.org

Suicide Prevention Resource Center Suicide Prevention Resource Center http://www.sprc.orghttp://www.sprc.org

7777

ReferencesReferences

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (2010). http://www.afsp.orgAmerican Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (2010). http://www.afsp.org American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental

disorders (4th ed., text rev.). Washington, DC: Author.disorders (4th ed., text rev.). Washington, DC: Author. Gewirtz, A., DeGarmo, D., Polushy, M., Khaylis, A., & Erbes, C. (2010). Post-traumatic stress Gewirtz, A., DeGarmo, D., Polushy, M., Khaylis, A., & Erbes, C. (2010). Post-traumatic stress

symptoms among National Guard soldiers deployed to Iraq: Associations with parenting symptoms among National Guard soldiers deployed to Iraq: Associations with parenting behaviors and couple adjustment. behaviors and couple adjustment. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 78Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 78(5), 599-(5), 599-610. 610.

Franklin, K. (2009). Understanding the challenges of marriage, parenting, and family life for Franklin, K. (2009). Understanding the challenges of marriage, parenting, and family life for returning veterans and military families: The Deployment Cycle and Reintegration Challenges.returning veterans and military families: The Deployment Cycle and Reintegration Challenges.

Hoge, C., Castro, C., Messer, J., McGurk, D., Cotting, D., & Koffman, R. (2004). Combat duty Hoge, C., Castro, C., Messer, J., McGurk, D., Cotting, D., & Koffman, R. (2004). Combat duty in Iraq and Afghanistan: Mental health problems and barriers to care. in Iraq and Afghanistan: Mental health problems and barriers to care. New England Journal of New England Journal of Medicine, 35Medicine, 35(1), 13-22.(1), 13-22.

Hoge, E.A., Austin, E.D. & Pollack, M.H. (2007). Resilience: Research evidence and Hoge, E.A., Austin, E.D. & Pollack, M.H. (2007). Resilience: Research evidence and conceptual considerations for posttraumatic stress disorder. conceptual considerations for posttraumatic stress disorder. Depression and Anxiety, 24Depression and Anxiety, 24, 139-, 139-152.152.

Jones, K., Young, T., & Leppma, M. (2010). Mild traumatic brain injury and post traumatic Jones, K., Young, T., & Leppma, M. (2010). Mild traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress disorder in returning Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans: Implications for assessment stress disorder in returning Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans: Implications for assessment and diagnosis. and diagnosis. Journal of Counseling and Development, 88Journal of Counseling and Development, 88(3), 372-376. (3), 372-376.

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ReferencesReferences

Mundt., J. (2009). PTSD in the new generation of combat veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan: Mundt., J. (2009). PTSD in the new generation of combat veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan: What the non-VA clinician needs to know. Medical Educational Services Ins. Professional What the non-VA clinician needs to know. Medical Educational Services Ins. Professional Development Network. Eau, WI. Development Network. Eau, WI.

Pfeffer, D. (2010). Quality Instructional Services for Veterans And Military Family Members, Pfeffer, D. (2010). Quality Instructional Services for Veterans And Military Family Members, Webinar.Webinar.

Santrock., J. (2005). Santrock., J. (2005). Adolescence.Adolescence. McGrawHill. New York, NY. McGrawHill. New York, NY. Savych, B. (2009). Effects of deployment on spouses of military personnel. Savych, B. (2009). Effects of deployment on spouses of military personnel. Humanities and Humanities and

Social Sciences,Social Sciences, 3295. 3295. Schupp., J. (2010). SERV VCU. Supportive education for the returning veteran. Helping Schupp., J. (2010). SERV VCU. Supportive education for the returning veteran. Helping

Virginia’s Best, Brightest, and Bravest get their degree, Webinar.Virginia’s Best, Brightest, and Bravest get their degree, Webinar. Spinal Cord Injuries. (2010). www.sci.va.govSpinal Cord Injuries. (2010). www.sci.va.gov Thomas, J. Wilk, J. Riviere, L., McGurk, D., Castro, C., Hoge, C. (2010) Prevalence of mental Thomas, J. Wilk, J. Riviere, L., McGurk, D., Castro, C., Hoge, C. (2010) Prevalence of mental

health problems and functional impairment among active component National Guard soldiers 3 health problems and functional impairment among active component National Guard soldiers 3 and 12 months following combat in Iraq. and 12 months following combat in Iraq. Archives of General Psychiatry, 67Archives of General Psychiatry, 67(6), 614-623.(6), 614-623.

TraumaticBrainInjury.com. (2010). www.traumaticbraininjury.comTraumaticBrainInjury.com. (2010). www.traumaticbraininjury.com VA MST. (2010). www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.aspVA MST. (2010). www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp VCU. (2010). Veteran’s Census; Fall 2010.VCU. (2010). Veteran’s Census; Fall 2010.

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Documents

1 Virginia Commonwealth University USS RAMS University Support Services for Returning and Active Military Students “GREEN ZONE PROGRAM” An initiative to