Student Veterans

Ahoy military members and veterans!
There are some differences between the modal undergraduate student and the current or former military member who attends an undergraduate program. The veteran is generally older, more likely to be married, and may have had some extremely dangerous experiences. Many military members are hesitant to reveal their military association. They are more likely to live off campus, low crawl toward the classroom, recon their classroom for IEDs, gather intell, and then do evasive maneuvers to clear the battle zone. Contact with others is limited.

Having spent 37 years in uniform, I have an understanding of this experience, and I don’t think that it is best for the veteran. Humans are social animals that do better physically and emotionally while in healthy relationships. I encourage you to search for healthy relationships.

One place to start your search is the UCSD Student Veteran Organization (http://studentvets.ucsd.edu/). Another rallying point could be the Veterans Support Group that I facilitate. This group helps one learn a variety of wellness enhancing skills while obtaining support from fellow veterans. Group meetings will occur at the most convenient time for those interested.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me by email at jlsexton@ucsd.edu or phone at (858) 534-0251.
Please visit the Counseling and Psychological Services website http://caps.ucsd.edu/.

Semper fi,
John Sexton, Ph.D.,
Warren College Psychologist