CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – This summer, a select group of enlisted student veterans will participate in a rigorous, weeklong academic boot camp at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign designed to prepare them for college life. Hosted from June 21–28 by the Chez Veterans Center in collaboration with the national nonprofit Warrior-Scholar Project (WSP), the immersive STEM-focused experience simulates the intensity of a college finals week, requiring each participant to complete 75 academic hours.
The boot camp is tailored to help veterans transition successfully from military service to higher education. More than 115,000 veterans make that shift annually, and for many, adjusting to a civilian identity, academic rigor, and campus life presents unique challenges. WSP addresses these through rigorous academics and strong social support.
Veterans in the program will learn from University of Illinois faculty, engage in research-driven coursework, receive mentorship from fellow veterans, and gain familiarity with campus resources. The program is offered at no cost to participants, thanks to support from the university and private donors.
“WSP was more influential than I could have ever expected,” said Navy veteran Adam Sherman, a past participant. “The process fostered and reinforced a motivating and positive mindset I’ll carry throughout my academic journey.”
Now in its fourth year of partnership with the University of Illinois, WSP boasts a success rate of 88% of alumni earning or progressing toward a college degree — significantly higher than national averages for veterans and civilian students.
The Department of Veterans Affairs actively supports WSP, recognizing its vital role in empowering veterans through education. For more, visit www.warrior-scholar.org.