The MASC is here to help you better understand and relate to student veterans, military personnel, and their families. Unlike traditional students, student veterans are typically older and face challenges similar to adult and non-traditional students, but with the added dimension of being a veteran. Veterans face challenges such as adjusting to life as a student after several years away, taking on a full college course load while fulfilling the adult obligations of providing for a family, and coping with the mental stresses and physical wounds of combat service. However, they also bring with them unique and rich experiences that contribute to the classroom and university.
- Who is a veteran?
- Who to contact with questions about a student veteran?
- University policies regarding missing classes for military service?
- Higher Ed Resources for veterans
- Best practices for veterans in the classroom
Who is a Veteran?
In many cases, students identified as veterans at Iowa State University are receiving educational benefits at the state or federal level, but we do not limit the use of the term or our services only to those veterans.
Generally speaking, a veteran is someone who has served in one of the five branches of the US Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard). The term veteran is often applied to an individual who has honorably completed a specific term of service and has been discharged from his or her service obligation; however, the term also applies to those individuals currently serving on Active Duty, as well as those fulfilling their obligation in the Reserves or National Guard.
Veterans bring a variety of skills and experiences to the University. Basic military and technical training received through the Armed Forces instills service members with a strong sense of discipline and teamwork. Student Veterans are a resource for enhancing classroom dialogue and bringing firsthand perspectives to course content.
Who to contact with questions about a student veteran?
If you have any questions or concerns about student Veterans that you are working with, please email us at masc@iastate.edu.
University policies regarding missing classes for military service?
Many student veterans at Iowa State are still fulfilling service obligations on Active Duty or in the National Guard or Reserves. University policy provides accommodation for these students in the event they are mobilized or receive orders that incidentally conflict with their course schedules. Faculty and staff members who work with student veterans are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the relevant policies and regulations.
University Attendance Policy for Military Service
10.4.3.3 Military Service
"Instructors shall excuse absences due to veteran or military service obligations (including service-related medical appointments, military orders dictating appointments, and National Guard Service obligations). When a student’s military or veteran obligations are for more than two weeks, the student should meet with their advisor to discuss the situation and academic options and work with their instructors to discuss potential accommodations. University procedures are in place for such situations and should be followed. In all instances, students have a responsibility to communicate with their instructors to ensure they are continuing to meet course expectations and requirements. Faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to consult with the university’s MilitaryAffiliated Student Center at masc.dso.iastate.edu."
Amended and approved by the Faculty Senate on 4/17/18, the Senior Vice President and Provost on 4/19/2018, and the ISU President on 4/22/2018.
*For additional information regarding the University Attendance Policy, please see the Faculty Handbook
Other Sources of Information:
ISU Course Catalog and Academic Conduct
Beyond policy, having empathy, understanding, and a willingness to work with student veterans, military personnel, and their families works best. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Military-Affiliated Student Center at 515-294-9801 or email us at masc@iastate.edu.
Higher Ed Resources for Veterans
Sources of information and research related to veterans' issues are available through the following veteran, government, and nonprofit organization websites.
- US Department of Veterans Affairs
- Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs
- Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America
- Vietnam Veterans of America
- Student Veterans of America
- Veterans of Foreign Wars
- American Legion
- Military One Source
Best Practices for veterans in the classroom
The unique circumstances and non-traditional backgrounds student veterans bring to the University sometimes create challenges and potential sources of conflict or discomfort for both the veteran and the University employee. Our office is constantly on the lookout for resources and guidelines to help faculty and staff effectively engage student veterans and understand their needs, expectations, and points of view.