Russel Henricksen’s days as a U student are a bit different than his previous lifestyle as a combat soldier in Iraq only a few years ago.
Most would view the life of someone in the military as dangerous and difficult, but Henricksen, a junior in mass communication, said it is not as bad as some make it out to be, especially with the financial aid that comes with the job.
“It’s not always yelling and screaming like (most people) think it is,” he said. “I think the military gave me a purpose and taught me a lot about myself.”
The Montgomery GI Bill lets Henricksen take that purpose and put it to use.
In the face of constant tuition increases and the everyday cost of living, a college education seems out of reach for many, but not soldiers. The Montgomery GI Bill is a program through the military that allows individuals who commit to 36 months of service, either before or after applying, to obtain their education for free and with a monthly stipend for the same number of months they served. The bill pays for any trade schools, state universities and institutions that provide a certificate or degree.
Both active and former servicemen have the opportunity through the GI Bill to have their previous service in the military not only pay for college, but also allow them to dedicate their time to schoolwork by not having to seek employment.
“Because of the GI Bill, I have been able to participate in more that I probably would not have time to do under other circumstances,” Henricksen said.
In addition to the GI Bill, universities have the choice to sign up for the Yellow Ribbon Program, which pays up to the equivalent of the highest in-state tuition rate for undergraduate degrees, graduate schools and professional programs.
After finishing his bachelor’s degree, Henricksen said he plans to go to law school, something he decided while he was serving in the military, which will also be paid for in exchange for his military service.