How Macomb helps veterans succeed

Veterans Day, observed on Nov. 11, is a time to remember the sacrifices made by those who have served in the United States military. It’s also a day to say thank you. At Macomb, it’s when we reaffirm our commitment to supporting veterans as they pursue their next chapter through education.

Macomb was recently recognized by the Michigan Veterans Agency as a certified Veteran-Friendly School, awarding the college gold-level recognition from the 2025-2026 school year. The honor recognizes colleges and universities across Michigan that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to supporting veterans, active-duty service members and their families in utilizing their GI Bill and navigating other educational resources.

Assistance with transitioning from military service to college life 

The transition from military service to college life can be filled with questions, challenges and opportunities. That’s why Macomb’s Office of Veteran & Military Services (VMS) ensures that military-connected students have the resources, guidance and community they deserve.

“We help veterans, service members and their families maximize their educational opportunities and remove barriers that get in the way,” said Kara Fields, director, Office of Veteran & Military Services.  “Whether it’s navigating benefits, connecting to resources or just figuring out what’s next, we’re here to make the transition smoother and the path clearer.”

What does Macomb’s Office of Veteran and Military Services offer?

Macomb’s VMS provides a range of educational support to help military-connected students succeed.

Benefits include:

• Priority registration, allowing military-connected students the chance to secure the classes they need to stay on track
• Guidance through both the Veterans Affairs and college processes, including assistance when applying for GI Bill benefits
• Help with submitting transcripts and converting service experience to college credit
• Scholarships for veterans, service members and their families
• Personalized academic advising and counseling
• Extended payment due dates for GI Bill users
• Connections to community, college resources and student veteran organizations
• Dedicated spaces where veterans can gather, study or unwind
• Signature events including Mission Registration and Non-Mandatory Fun Day

Free emergency financial assistance

In addition, VMS connects students with programs to help ease the burden of unexpected expenses. Thanks to generous donations, free funding is available for veterans, service members and their immediate families to help with food insecurity, housing issues, car repairs, medical costs.

“It’s for the stuff that hits hard and threatens a student’s ability to stay in school,” Fields said.

For those whose studies are interrupted by military service, VMS offers support with readmission and course completion accommodations to help them stay on track.

Finally, VMS helps students understand how their enrollment status, whether full-time or part-time, can affect their VA benefits. The office monitors academic progress to ensure students maintain eligibility, offering guidance on GPA requirements and probation policies to help them succeed long-term.

“We don’t just support veterans; we know them.  Our team includes people who understand military culture. We offer a space where veterans feel seen, heard and respected,” Fields said.

To learn more about the services available to veterans and the military at Macomb, please visit our webpage.