In the season of Veteran's Day, many people my age have just forgotten this holiday in general. Or, they share a post and say they are respecting the holiday, but that's where it ends.
Veteran's Day originated under a different name in 1919. In 1926 it became an annual observance, and was finally named a national holiday in 1938. The purpose of Veteran's Day is a bit different than Memorial Day. This day is meant to honor all who have served, living or deceased. However, this day is meant to especially recognize those living who have committed valiant acts. There are over 20 million living veterans. Over a million of those are attending college.
One major reason veterans leave school is because they feel like they don't belong. Typically, they are older than the typical college students, which causes an innate separation. As a result, it can lead to exclusion in and out of the classroom. This can make the overall experience difficult because they are used to being in a group of like-minded people with whom they experienced everything. Then, that aspect just isn't present at college.
They are surrounded by people five, 10, or even 15 years younger than them. They are surrounded by people who don't truly know the meaning of hard work and sacrifice. College is a place for many to find their lifelong friends among their peers. But, for them, that is probably already done.
As civilians, it is our job to reach out to and include these people on our campuses.
If you see someone with a veteran hat or shirt on, say hi. If you see a student who is older, say hi. Just because they didn't go to college right after they graduated high school does not mean that they don't also need connections on campus. It doesn't mean they don't also need someone to sit with in class, it doesn't mean they don't also need someone to study with.
Just because they might have radically different experiences than you doesn't mean that you might not have similarities. Even on a base level, just saying hi and smiling at people is polite. It's easier when you do it to people that are most similar to you, but it's more impactful when you do it to someone who isn't.
So, say hi to a veteran on campus. Maybe even strike up a conversation. Reach out to someone new. Make them realize their service, sacrifice and loss weren't total wastes. Do your part to ensure that the campus you love and value so much can become more than a place they attend school.
