As part of a comprehensive set of services that facilitate a supportive transition from military life to a liberal arts college environment, the VRC provides veterans with a dedicated space to socialize, study, and network.
The VRC is able to help veterans prepare for admission to Whittier College, apply for financial aid and GI Bill® benefits, and secure funding through sources like the Yellow Ribbon Program or scholarships.
Whittier College and the Veteran Resource Center are not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs. For questions regarding payments, please call 888.442.4551.
Unique to Whittier College, the Ahmanson Veteran Fellowship (AVF) gives student veterans three fellowship opportunities. Each fellow receives a stipend and a fellowship curriculum tailored to their career interests, from engaging in a substantial undergraduate research project with a faculty mentor, an opportunity to attend the Student Veterans of America (SVA) National Conference, to a fellowship grant to take on an unpaid internship. The AVF provides undergraduate student veterans with the necessary preparation and experience that will augment their resume and prepare them for a career in any field.
Understanding that student veterans often carry parenting responsibilities, the Student Veteran Childcare Support program provides financial assistance of up to $500 to help cover childcare costs.
Unforeseen expenses sometimes arise during the academic year. In order to minimize the negative impact these expenses may have on a student's schoolwork, the Student Veteran Emergency Fund provides financial assistance up to $500.
Because many of our student veterans are commuters who do not already subscribe to a meal plan in the Campus Inn dining hall, the VRC provides each student veteran up to 5 meal vouchers per semester.
The VRC, equipped with computers, free printing, and a free coffee/snack station, offers students a relaxing space to study, take a break between classes, and build community with each other.
The VRC also hosts a number of programs designed to support student veterans and military-dependent students including, but not limited to, monthly Lunch and Learn events that feature resources from on or off campus; a rotation of on-site office hours for the Career Center and the Center for Advising and Academic Success; and team-building activities and outings throughout the academic year.
Joshua Elsen VRC Coordinator 562.907.5197 jelsen@whittier.edu
Mariacristina Navaja Director of Student Conduct and Veteran Services 562.907.4234 mnavaja@whittier.edu veterans@whittier.edu
Campus Center Suite 114
Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
