Adapting to College Life After Military Service: A Social Cognitive Learning Approach

• In Event: 14.045 - Roundtable Session 3
  In Roundtable Session: 14.045-9 - On the Move: Examining the Experiences of Students in Transition

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study is to provide insight regarding the ways in which student veterans learn to adapt to their college environment from a social cognitive perspective. Findings reveal three interconnected themes: developing a ‘military-like’ environment; imposing a ‘military-like’ structure; and, reflecting on differences between military and college life. Understanding the ways in which student veterans learn to navigate their transition from military service to college life by examining their social cognitive learning processes can help faculty, staff, and administrators assist in the development of their individual agency, self-reflective behaviors, and self-determined actions that will ultimately help them to succeed.

Authors

• Tearney Woodruff, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Vicente M. Lechuga, Texas A&M University