G.I. Jobs magazine has recognized Oakland University as a “Military Friendly School” for the fourth year in a row.

This title is reserved for the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools nationwide, according to Brad Reichelt, veteran liaison.

“What makes OU in the top 15 percent is how well (Vets at OU) compare to the criteria set out by G.I. Jobs Military Friendly Schools. They have weighted categories that research finds most important for supporting veterans in school,” he said.

This includes military support on campus, academic credibility, the percent of military students, academic credit for military service, flexibility for military students, assistance with federal government correspondence and/or documentation, among many other specifications.

Veteran Support Service

Reichelt says the reason Vets at OU won for the fourth year in a row is because the Veteran Support Service office helps with anything from problems with educational benefits to contacting veterans with outside resources.

The Veterans Support Service office, located in 116 North Foundation Hall, supports veterans with Government Issues Bills, other finances and registration.

“There are many offices around campus that work with our military on a daily basis and should be commended for their work,” Ann Besaw, VA certifying official, said.

According to Besaw, some benefits of the support service are evaluation of military transcripts for transfer credit, four free elective credits upon submission of a DD-214 or Notice of Basic Eligibility and  veterans/service members and dependents of are able to register on the first day of registration.

“We like to give back to other veterans,” said Kate Lopez, Vets at OU president. “We set by example and lead by example. We can’t just take, we also give back to the community. Lopez served five years in the Army, three of which she was a Sergeant.

Contact Campus Editor Stephanie Preweda via email at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter @stephsocool