 
The decision has been made and the paperwork submitted. It’s
time to hang up your BDU’s and boots and replace them with
sneakers and a book bag. You have decided to leave the Army
and return to school to take advantage of the educational
benefits the recruiter promised you. But, before you run out
and fork over big bucks for tuition, there are some important
questions to consider.
What Do You Want To Do?
The first and most difficult question is, “What do you want
to do for the rest of your life?” If you have not made this
decision, you definitely need to spend some time looking at
your career options. Many veterans have spent much time and
money pursuing a career for which they had neither the ability
nor the interest. Your Education Services Office, the library,
or the counseling center at a local university, are good places
to start investigating careers.
Once the decision is
made, you then need to look at the education options available
to you. If you are considering a certificate of licensing
program, then consider technical schools and community/junior
colleges (both residence and correspondence). If you prefer
a degree program, you need to consider public and private
two- and four-year institutions. Regardless of what type of
school you choose, make sure the school and the program are
both approved for VA benefits. The school can verify this,
or you can call the nearest Department of Veterans Affairs
regional office. This is critical, since you cannot receive
VA educational benefits if you choose a school or a program
that is not approved.
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