Supporting Student Veterans Through Every Step of Their Journey at Midland CollegeApril 09, 2026

By Daniel Ortega, MC Director of Veteran Services

I know firsthand what it means to transition from military service into higher education.

After 26 years in the United States Navy, retiring as a Senior Chief Petty Officer in 2014, I understand both the structure and demands of military life, and the adjustment that comes with moving into a college environment. That experience is a big part of how I approach my role today as Director of Veterans Services at Midland College.

At MC, our Veterans Services program is built around one simple goal: making sure student veterans and military-connected students are supported from the moment they walk through our doors to the day they complete their goals.

“We want every veteran to know they are not navigating this process alone,” I often tell students. “Our job is to meet them where they are, help them understand their benefits, and connect them with the right resources so they can focus on their education.”

Our office provides hands-on assistance with VA education benefits, including GI Bill® certification, along with academic advising referrals and connections to campus support services. We work closely with students to ensure they understand their eligibility, stay on track academically, and feel confident using the benefits they’ve earned through their service.

For many students, that support makes a real difference during a major life transition. They are moving from the highly structured environment of the military to the more independent pace of college, and that can be tough.

“Transitioning out of the military is very challenging,” I often explain. “There’s a shift in structure, expectations, and daily routine. We’re here to help make that adjustment as smooth as possible.”

What makes this work especially meaningful is seeing the range of students we serve. Some are beginning college for the first time after military service, while others are returning to advance their careers or prepare for transfer to a four-year university. No matter where they start, they share a commitment to building a strong future.

One of our student veterans, Rossy Morales Ramos, represents exactly why this support matters. Students like her remind us that when veterans feel supported, they thrive; not just academically, but personally and professionally.

“The support I’ve received has made a big difference,” Morales Ramos said. “Having people who understand the process and are willing to help you every step of the way really makes you feel like you belong here.”

“One of the biggest issues that I've had was using Chapter 31, the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E),” said Morales Ramos. “That is very intimidating, but being here at Midland College and having Erin and Daniel walk me through it was a game changer.”

“I don’t feel lost at MC,” she said. “I feel like there is a family here that wants to see me succeed, that wants to see me thrive. This is a place that is going to lend a hand to help solve whatever problem you may be facing.”

In addition to benefits support, our Veterans Services team connects students with tutoring, advising, and other campus resources to help ensure they have a strong foundation for success. We want every student veteran to feel like they belong here and have a clear path forward.

At MC, we also continue to strengthen outreach efforts to expand military Veterans resource awareness and support military-connected students as they make their civilian and career transition utilizing earned educational benefits, helping them understand how education can align with their long-term goals.

“I’ve seen what strong support systems can do for veterans,” I often reflect. “Many go on to complete degrees, transfer to universities, and build meaningful careers. Being part of that journey is truly rewarding.”

Our commitment at Midland College is simple: Serve those who have served, and help them succeed in every stage of their educational journey.

For more information about Veterans Services at MC, visit midland.edu/veterans or contact our office for assistance.