The University of Montana remains one of the most veteran-friendly campuses in the country. Through UM’s Military and Veteran Services Office (MVSO), student veterans and military affiliated students have access to services, support and resources for success on campus. Because of these efforts, UM has a Gold Rating as a top Military Friendly School in the United States.
Keep reading to discover some UM fast facts about veterans on campus, meet Aaron Kimmel, President of the Student Veterans Organization, and access links to specific veteran resources on campus (plus resources for every student).
UM is proud of our efforts to provide for veterans and military-affiliated students. Here are some of the recent facts and figures we brag about:
“I didn't know where I wanted to go,” Kimmel said. “I was just going to take online school, but I knew that I wasn't going to be as successful in an online environment. And I knew I wanted to be in the mountains.”
Kimmel’s interest in mountain towns brought him to Missoula and the University of Montana in 2023, where he enrolled as a junior in the business school (thanks to his previous associate degree). Kimmel, following the footsteps of his father, elected for an accounting major and plans to sit for his certified public accountant test after graduating.
Kimmel’s experience in higher education has come with certain obstacles that a “traditional” student straight out of high school may not experience. For Kimmel, this included navigating the transition from military to civilian life.
“I think it can be overwhelming when you're transitioning out. Even if you've only did like a few years in the military, so much of that becomes your identity and who you are. It can be very challenging to redefine yourself,” Kimmel said.
Kimmel is still on the road of redefining himself. He’s prepared to graduate with his accounting degree and has two internships lined up, including a summer auditing internship in Alaska. He’s a resourceful student who has succeeded with grit and determination, also known as The Montana Way. But he’s quick to point out there are resources on campus for anyone looking for a little help.
“Set yourself up for success and pursue something you actually want to pursue,” he said. “The University has provided me with nothing but opportunity. Everyone's very friendly to veterans. The resources are out there and this university will figure out a way for you to be able to attend college and pursue a career.”
Continue reading to learn more about the resources available to military-specific students and valuable resources available for every student on campus.
We’re all about solutions at UM. If you are a veteran or affiliated with the military at UM, and you are encountering obstacles to your education, we have several solutions to help you out. Some of these resources are helpful for every student on campus, while others address concerns specific to our veteran population. Check them out yourself:
UM’s Military and Veteran Office is your number-one resource to maximize your education benefits, including the G.I. Bill®, military tuition assistance, financial aid, and more. The office is also at the center of our military-affiliated community, with compassionate and dedicated mentors and peers to help guide you through your education journey. Contact MVSO in person on campus, through email or via telephone –(406) 243-2223.
The Student Veterans Organization (SVO) is the largest student group on campus for veteran and military-related students. Alongside advocacy and resources, SVO provides strong community connections with different events, including welcome BBQs, gatherings and workshops.
Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) is a state-wide program aimed at providing training, instruction, support or referral. Services include college preparatory courses, customized workshops, academic and career counseling, and referral services to other agencies and community service providers.
The Financial Aid Office on the fifth floor of Aber Hall is an excellent resource for understanding all the different types of financial aid on top of any military-related aid, including grants and scholarships.
The Office of Financial Education offers free one-on-one advising for all financial questions and burdens, including budgeting, credit scores and financial aid options. The office also hosts several workshops throughout the year covering similar subjects.
Every student on campus benefits from the Office for Student Success. Several resources, including tutoring and academic advising, are free, alongside programs like the Four Bear Program – helping students graduate on a desired timeline.
TRiO Student Support Services (SSS) is a free resource for all qualified students. Alongside a community of peers, SSS offers a network of academic advisers and several game-changing resources, including tutoring, scholarships and book and technology loan programs.
The Writing and Public Speaking Center takes online, in-person and drop-in appointments to help with these two challenging components of college life. Expect to encounter undergraduates, graduates, faculty and staff all using the collaborative nature of the center.
Experiential Learning & Success is UM's signature career-ready program. From your first day on campus to your first day at a new job, this office provides vital assistance for every student. From mentorships, internships and career guidance, stop into their office in Aber Hall for everything you'll need to graduate with a job already lined up.
Curry Health Center is a compassionate place to receive low-cost counseling services and free wellness resources, including materials on stress management, safe partying, safe sex, exercise and healthy eating. This student-focused center also is the spot to receive medical and dental treatments without leaving campus.
UM’s Office for Disability Equity strives to ensure accessibility for all aspects of campus life, including learning, living, working at UM. If you or a peer need accommodations to make life more equitable, this office provides one-on-one support.
GrizHub is the leading UM directory for student news, clubs, organizations and intramural teams. It’s an excellent resource for finding the community you’d like to join. GrizHub also is the spot to learn about events happening in and around campus. For more information on joining a club, check out the blog post How to Join a Club at UM.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by the VA is available at the official U.S. government website.
Note: The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense uniform or information does not imply or constitute DOD endorsement.