Bakersfield College has long been an approved institution for training veterans. BC grants credit for certain service experience and training completed by veterans while serving their country. Staff members monitor how the bill coordinates with financial aid and other campus services, greatly reducing lost or delayed benefits.
In addition to benefits, veteran interaction is essential for a successful transition. One in five veterans have experienced traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder. While most student veterans are disciplined, focused, and mature, they feel behind and struggle finding their new home at BC.
The BC Veterans Center is already at capacity
BC has taken the concept of veteran’s services further, establishing a Veteran’s Center where veterans can seek services or simply relax in a safe, familiar environment. BC also sponsors a Veteran’s Club that coordinates information and services, helping veterans successfully transition. Other services include “Squared Away in a Day,” an event where veterans have priority access to essential services. “VetFest” is a celebration of Kern County’s veterans that hosts local veterans organizations and businesses interested in hiring veterans. GI Bill workshops, individual counseling, and special classes help ease the transition back to civilian life.
BC is our community’s college. BC student veterans are members of our community, whether returning home or seeking to make Bakersfield their home. BC is proud of these veterans and their many sacrifices and accomplishments. BC remains dedicated to making Bakersfield College, and by extension, Kern County, a place where they are welcomed home.
BC’s Veteran Resources Center (VRC) serves over 650 veterans/dependents a year and this number is continually growing. Visit BC’s VRC and you’ll see a room overflowing with veterans who use this small space to reconnect and receive support. Measure J will fund the expansion of the VRC physical space at both the Bakersfield and Delano Campuses. With these funds, it will create a larger footprint, which will allow room for a larger meeting area, offices to have individual conferences, and a space for VRC students to study and receive support.
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