There it is—the big elephant in the room: college. And what about it? Well, everything.
The college application process is hard enough as it is, but for military brats, it just becomes so much harder. What place do you most identify with? What is the most impactful experience you’ve had? Tell us everything about yourself- in only 300 words. These kinds of questions make you question life as a military child. Yet they also make us realize how much our lives have shaped us into who we are. These experiences we carry may feel like a burden at times, but they're also a source of pride.
As a military teen working through the application process, I understand the challenges of transcript errors, stubborn counselors, and more. But I can also provide tips on how to use our unique strengths to our advantage.
Transcripts and School Counselors: For many parents and students, moving is their worst nightmare. Not only is it because of the hectic process of transferring belongings, people, and jobs, but also because of the challenges associated with high school transcripts.
“It’s just a piece of paper. How can that be anyone’s worst nightmare?”
Many military students have had their credits annihilated by picky school counselors and administrative systems that refuse to recognize hard-earned credits, forcing them to retake classes and ultimately fall behind their peers and potentially delaying graduation. It can be discouraging and make you question whether college is even an option.
The good news is that colleges are now more aware of the unique and challenging circumstances of military teens, and we can turn those “weaknesses” into strengths. We have survived those challenges, demonstrating that our capabilities and potential extend beyond a piece of paper.
Moving and Military Lifestyle: Not many of America’s youth have traveled as extensively or as frequently as many of us in the military community. These moves and relocations involve much more than just traveling; they are about experiencing, which carries a lot of power when applying to college.
Because of our military backgrounds, we naturally develop grit, adaptability, open-mindedness, and inclusiveness—traits that not only make us stronger individuals but provide us with much to offer universities. Our diverse backgrounds and unique experiences help us stand out, and by highlighting our growth and individuality, we become golden candidates for admission.
Be Proud of Yourself and the Challenges You’ve Overcome: You've made it this far, and believe it or not, YOU are amazing—not just as an extension of devoted and brave parents or guardians, but because you weathered the storm alongside them and grew into a military brat. Wear it like a badge of honor and embrace the growth that has come from it.
At the end of the day, even if the admissions board doesn’t fully appreciate it, we do—and the world does, too. The collective challenges we've faced have made us stronger and allowed us to shine brighter, so let that light shine!
It Is Okay: As I navigate the college application process, I feel the stress every day. I have questioned countless times: who am I, and what makes me special? Being a military brat plays a big role in my identity, shaping much of what defines me. Being a senior is hard, but in the end, everything will work out. I truly believe that nothing can take away the lessons we have learned along the way.
Best of luck in this journey!
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