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Military Matters: 2 Local Colleges Are Top Military Friendly Schools

Story Published: Sep 26, 2012 at 1:57 PM EDT

Story Updated: Sep 26, 2012 at 6:16 PM EDT

Clarkson University says military veterans are an important part of the fabric of the school.

"They like to be on our campus and we're proud that they want to be and we think that we deliver the degrees that can deliver them to future success," said Clarkson President Dr. Tony Collins.

Just ask Air Force veteran, now Clarkson University senior, Edward Hayes. 

The Potsdam native already has a job lined up when he graduates this December.

"This has been the place I want to be and I wouldn't have chosen anywhere else besides Clarkson," he said.

It turns out that Clarkson is a good choice.

Along with Jefferson Community College in Watertown, Clarkson made the G.I. Jobs Guide's 2013 Military Friendly Schools List - making it one of the top 15 percent of schools in the country in doing the most to educate America's vets.

"There are a number of criteria that get ranked and evaluated and I think we're hitting pretty much on all cylinders," said Collins.

Collins says on top of providing full tuition benefits for qualifying vets, Clarkson works hard to support their unique educational needs.

It offers everything from special housing programs and a tailored admission process to vet-to-vet mentorship and a dedicated counselor for the school's veteran-student population.

"They've been through a lot and we're ready to help them reintegrate into the classroom," said Collins.

Collins says it's the least they can do considering the sacrifices veterans have made.

"It's not just on-campus education, it's our whole region, I hear, is very supportive and welcoming and that's the way it should be," said Collins.

2013 Military Friendly Schools List
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
, Watertown, NY

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