Because the student veteran population brings unique experiences to the learning stage it is important to develop programs which accommodate these experiences. Engagement Services identify colleges and universities as being in a good position to assist student veterans with their education and their reintegration into civilian society. At the 2019 Conference on Improving College Education for Veterans, it was stated, “Effective reintegration into civilian society requires flexibility and adaptation, not only from the service member but from those in the community”. At the same conference, it was emphasized the need for institutions of higher education to recognize and utilise the human resources student veterans bring. Many noted that veterans can be instrumental in improving our global competitiveness and productivity by improving educational attainment. This was also mentioned by the author, who describes the learning process as being capable of being viewed from the perspective of “learner, processor context: considered together, we have a broadened understanding of the complex nature of learning in adulthood”.

Student veterans’ success relies not only on the individual student but also on the institution.

The unique campus culture of each institution is a potential stumbling block for some student veterans. A holistic approach by the institution is needed to address the needs of student veterans. Meeting these needs is not limited to one department but is a college-wide challenge and requires the coordinated efforts of all campus departments to support and serve this population. The need to develop inter-departmental programs requires a coordinated effort, knowledge, and ability to support and serve this population.

Institutions of higher education have the potential to increase enrollment by attracting eligible veterans. However, in return for the possibility of increased tuition, the institutions must be prepared to create a campus environment which will enhance the chances of the veterans’ academic and social success. Institutions will be well served by developing a campus environment that supports veterans. This, therefore, provides information about today’s student veteran population and their perceptions of their experiences as they transition from active duty military personnel to college students from a transformative learning perspective.