Office of Military & Veterans Resources
STUDENT RESOURCE GUIDE
ARMY NAVY MARINE CORPS
COAST GUARD AIR FORCE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Message from the Office of Military and Veteran Resources (OMVR) Executive Director
1
On/Off-Campus Military and Veteran Services2
Map of On-Campus Services
3
APU Military and Veteran Services, Office of Military and Veteran Resources
4
GI Bill Benefits, Office of Military and Veteran Education Benefits (MVEB)5
Need To Know/FAQ’s Part 1
6
Need To Know/FAQ’s Part 2
7
Academic Accommodations
8
Other Student Services: Writing Center
9
Other Student Services: Career Services10
Counseling: University Counseling Center11
Off-Campus Military and Veteran Services12
Student Veteran Club
13
Regional Centers
14
Other Resources
15–17
Office of Military and Veterans Resources
680 E. Alosta Ave. Azusa, CA 91702 (626) 815-4631 [email protected]
Welcome to APU!
Message from the Office of Military and
Veteran Resources (OMVR) Executive Director,
Vic Bezjian, DBA (Lt Col, USAFR)
Welcome to Azusa Pacific University. I am proud to represent and advocate for a unique group of students, military, veterans and their dependents at APU.
The Office of Military and Veterans Resources was created as a resource for military and veterans to ensure their unique needs are met by coordinating with offices of various university services. This office assists students in navigating admissions, enrollment, financial aid processes, academic advising, tutoring, counseling, career advising, disability accommodations, veteran programming, benefits information, and additionally, facilitates referrals to state and federal resources and services.
As a veteran myself, I understand the difficulties many face transitioning to academic and civilian life. This office will do everything possible to create an environment where students will develop professionally, spiritually and make the transition to productive careers.
Welcome again to APU and do not hesitate to utilize this office as a resource for success.
Sincerely,
Vic Bezjian, DBA (Lt Col, USAFR)
Azusa Campus Military & Veteran Services
FOR QUESTIONS ABOUT
Veteran Services
REFER THE VETERAN TO
Office of Military and Veterans Resources Tel: 626-815-4617 Email: [email protected]
www.apu.edu/militaryeducation
GI Bill Benefits Office of Military and Veterans Education Benefits–School Certifying Official
Tel: 626-815-3837 Email: [email protected]
www.apu.edu/militaryeducation/admission
Academic
Accommodations
Learning Enrichment Center
(In trailer directly east of Campus Safety Office) Tel: 626-815-3849
www.apu.edu/lec
Counseling University Counseling Center Tel:
626-815-2109
www.apu.edu/counselingcenter
VA Services (Western Location) (Eastern Location)
VA Los Angeles Center VA Loma Linda 11301 Wilshire Blvd. 11201 Benton St. Los Angeles, CA Loma Linda, CA Tel: 310-478-3711 Tel: 909-825-7084
www.va.gov/directory/guide
Student Veteran Club APU Veterans Club
Member Student Veterans of America
Tel: 626-815-4603 Facebook: APU Veterans
Suicide Prevention The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Tel: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Map of On-Campus Services
WEST CAMPUS
www.apu.edu/mapAPU Military and Veteran Services
Office of Military and Veteran Resources (MVR)
OUR MISSION
The Office of Military and Veterans Resources is committed to honoring and serving military members, veterans and their dependents through strong academic programs, professional development and spiritual health imparted by a caring community.
www.apu.edu/militaryeducation
Our office is located upstairs in Suite 211 of the Alosta Center: 680 E. Alosta Ave. Azusa, CA 91702
GI Bill Benefits
Office of Military and Veteran Education Benefits (MVEB) -- Administration West
MISSION
The APU Office of Military and Veterans Education Benefits exist to be your advocate and liaison as you navigate the waters of pursuing higher education. While the determination of eligibility is strictly limited to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, our office will do all we can to help you get the most out of your education benefits during your entitlement period. Please call or stop by anytime during office hours, as we do enjoy meeting the students we are here to serve.
Feel free to contact our VA Certifying Officials with any questions or concerns you may have regarding accessing and/or processing your education benefits. The MVEB office is located at Administration West, 568 E. Foothill Blvd. Azusa. Please check-in at Suite 111. Parking is available in front of the building.
Need To Know/FAQ’s
Part 1
I am enrolled in school. When will I receive my benefits from VA?
Once your school submits your enrollment information, it must be entered into the system by VA. Because VA is generally overwhelmed with enrollments at the start of each semester, it could take up to 6 weeks to process an enrollment during those times. Your patience is appreciated - we will process all of the enrollments in order by the date received.
Do I get Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) while enrolled in distance learning?
The effective MHA rate for those enrolled solely in distance learning is $684.00 a month for the 2012-2013 academic year (this changes to $714.50 effective 8/1/13). This amount is 1/2 the national average BAH rate.
Can I be eligible for two or more education benefits?
Yes, you may be eligible for more than one VA education benefit program. However, you may only receive payments from one program at a time. You can receive a maximum of 48 months of benefits under any combination of VA education programs you qualify for.
When will I receive an increase or decrease in my MHA based on BAH changes?
As you may know, the Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) payments you receive for the Post-9/11 GI Bill are based on the military’s Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates for an E-5 with dependents. The Department of Defense adjusts the military BAH rate every calendar year (or January 1) based on changes to housing costs across the country. Rates can go either up or down.
What documents do I need to apply for VA education benefits here at APU?
#1 Certificate of Eligibility: If you have not yet obtained a Certificate of Eligibility from the VA, you can do so by either contacting the VA via their education benefits hotline at (888)442-4551, or you can visit their website at gibill.va.gov and follow the link “Apply for Benefits”.
#2 DD214: If applicable
#3 APU MVEB Application Packet.
Please call or email the MVEB office at (626) 815-3837 [email protected] for details.
APU MVEB Application Packet VA Certification Request Form Career Services:
Supplement for Military & Veterans Add/Drop Form
Need To Know/FAQ’s
Part 2
When do I get my Basic Housing Allowance?
If you qualify for BAH, then usually you receive it the month after the term starts. For example, enrollment beginning in September will be paid in October. Active Duty Service Members and Active Duty Spouses are ineligible for BAH.
When do I get my book and supply stipend?
The VA will send it directly to the student about 2-3 weeks before the term starts.
What is considered full time enrollment?
Undergraduate
Fall (15 weeks) 12 units Spring (15 weeks) 12 units Summer (4 weeks) 3 units Summer (6 weeks) 4 units
Graduate
Program Full Time 1/2 Time Summer FT Summer HT
Credential 12 6 12 6 MA 9 5 6 3 Nursing 6 3 6 3 Doctoral 6 3 6 3 Clinical Psych 7 4 7 4 DMIN 8 4 8 4
Full time for Azusa Pacific University College is 2 courses each 8-week session or 12 units per semester
What is the Yellow Ribbon Program and do I qualify for it?
If you are 100% Ch. 33 Post 9/11, not on Active Duty and not an Active Duty Spouse, you qualify for the Yellow Ribbon program. This is an optional program that APU has generously participated in for years. However, it is not guaranteed in the future. Once the student has reached their fiscal year VA max of $19,198.31 the Yellow Ribbon program kicks in and the VA and APU will split the cost of your remaining tuition up to $28,000 additional dollars. A fiscal year in the VA is from August 1st–July 31 the following year.
Do I have to turn in paperwork each time a new term begins?
Yes, every new term you must submit a new Certification Request Form with all the classes you would like to be certified for.
What area code is used to calculate the BAH for Chapter 33 - Post 9/11?
The BAH is based off the home schools zip code which is 91702.
How do I contact the VA directly?
Academic Accommodations
LEARNING ENRICHMENT CENTER
The Learning Enrichment Center (LEC) provides support to APU students through a variety of services and programs designed to promote academic success. Services include individualized and group tutoring, Supplemental Instruction Program (SI), training for the Peer-Led Team Learning Program (PLTL), student disability accommodations, College Level Examination Program (CLEP), examination proctoring services, freshman testing in reading, math, and writing, and individualized study strategies to support students in their academic endeavors toward excellence.
The office is located on East Campus, in the modules behind the Campus Safety Office. Phone: (626) 815-3849 Fax: (626) 815-3859 Office Hours: Monday–Thursday 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Friday 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Other Student Services
WRITING CENTER
The Writing Center provides in-person consultations to Azusa Pacific University’s undergraduate and graduate students. The Writing Center’s Undergraduate Writing Services provides a friendly
environment where students from any major can learn to become effective writers. Peer consultants tailor appointments to the writer’s needs, offering suggestions for improvement in areas ranging from thesis development to formatting. The Writing Center’s Graduate Writing Services provides assistance in writing effective scholarly papers at the graduate level. Our knowledgeable and experienced graduate consultants specialize in supporting APS, master’s, and doctoral students across multiple disciplines and at any point during the writing process.
To set up an appointment, visit the Writing Center schedule or contact us at (626) 815-6000, Ext. 3141/ (626) 815-6000, Ext. 3141
Office Hours: Monday–Thursday 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m.
Friday 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
West Campus Annex: School of Education Building, Rm 123N
Other Student Services
CAREER SERVICES
www.apu.edu/careerservices
The Office of Career Services provides basic career and vocational planning tools that encourages individuals, whether an undergraduate student or veteran professional, to discover their gifts and abilities and infuse them into their careers. For more information, email
[email protected], or call (626) 815-2103.
Counseling
UNIVERSITY COUNSELING CENTER
Students come to the University Counseling Center (UCC) for a variety of reasons. Some are looking for help in coping with the pressures associated with a challenging academic environment or adjustment to college life. Others want to learn how to be more effective in developing, negotiating, or maintaining relationships with others. Counseling can be beneficial for students who are feeling depressed or anxious, as well as those who want to examine their beliefs or explore their current life situation. The UCC offers students the opportunity to look at themselves and their environment and to change the way they think, feel, and behave so that they can make the most of their time at APU. UCC services available to currently enrolled graduate and undergraduate students include:
• Individual counseling • Couples counseling • Premarital counseling • Group counseling
• Crisis intervention • Training and educational workshops
To schedule an appointment or get additional information, please contact us. (The UCC discourages the use of email to communicate with our office, as the confidentiality of these messages cannot be guaranteed.) Our office is located east of the Baseball Field, across from the Health Center.
In emergency situations, first call 911 and then contact the Department of Campus Safety.
Phone: (626) 815-2109 Email: [email protected] Office Hours: Monday–Friday
Regional Centers & University College
www.apu.edu/locationsHIGH DESERT (VICTORVILLE)
Location:
On Pahute Ave. in Victorville near the 15 freeway
Programs:
Accelerated bachelor’s degrees in leadership and nursing, and credentials and master’s degrees in education
INLAND EMPIRE (SAN BERNARDINO)
Location:
In San Bernardino near the 10 and 215 freeways
Programs:
Accelerated bachelor’s degrees, credentials, and master’s degrees in education, leadership, nursing, and psychology
LOS ANGELES
Location:
On Wilshire Blvd. near the 10, 110, and 101 freeways
Programs:
Accelerated bachelor’s degrees, credentials, and master’s degrees in education, leadership, and theology
MURRIETA
Location:
On Murrieta Hot Springs Rd. near the 215 and 15 freeways
Programs:
Accelerated bachelor’s degrees, credentials, and master’s degrees in education and leadership
ORANGE COUNTY
Location:
At Orangewood Ave. and Eckhoff St. near the 57 freeway
Programs:
Accelerated bachelor’s degrees, credentials, and master’s degrees in education, leadership, and psychology, and a doctoral degree
SAN DIEGO
Location:
On Mission Center Rd. near the 163 freeway
Programs:
Accelerated bachelor’s degrees, credentials, and master’s degrees in education, leadership, nursing, psychology, and theology
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE
Initial UC Inquiry and Continuing UC Students
James Berry or Ray Soriano 626-804-2561 625-857-2485 [email protected] [email protected]
Financial Aid/Student Accounts/ Tuition Assistance/Grade Reporting to MyCAA and Air Force
D’arcy Bly 626-857-2479 Certification/ VA Once Brandon McLain 626-804-2556 [email protected] Success Coaches/Retention Carrie Akemann 626-815-6096
cakemann
@uc.apu.edu www.apu.edu/universitycollegeStudent Veteran Club
Veterans Club APU’s Veterans Club provides a built-in support network for service-members transitioning into academic life. The club offers a number of benefits, including social meetings and community service opportunities.
For more information, email [email protected] or contact Tammy Oluvic, director of military and veterans outreach, at (626) 815-4631 or [email protected].
Additional Military and Veteran Services
DEPT. OF VETERAN AFFAIRS
www.va.gov/directory/guide
Veterans of the United States armed forces may be eligible for a broad range of programs and services provided by the VA. Eligibility for most VA benefits is based upon discharge from active military service under other than dishonorable conditions, and certain benefits require service during wartime. The above link will direct you to the nearest locations for the following departments:
• Vet Centers (Counseling)
• Veteran Healthcare Administration • Veteran Benefits Administration • And many more…
EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT (EDD)
AND PARTNERS
www.edd.ca.gov/Office_Locator
The Employment Development Department (EDD) assists veterans and their eligible spouses maximize their employment and training opportunities. Veterans are entitled to many resources designed to help in their search for employment. The EDD veterans’ representatives specialize in assisting veterans in their efforts to return to work and are located in many local EDD offices. Services provided include a veteran 24-hour priority hold on all job listings, customized job search assistance, job fairs, employer recruitments, and other events and resources. Veterans are encouraged to schedule an appointment with an EDD veterans’ representative for personalized services and assistance to achieve professional goals.
DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION
www.rehab.cahwnet.gov
The California Department of Rehabilitation works in partnership with consumers and other stakeholders to provide services and advocacy resulting in employment, independent living and equality for individuals with disabilities.
ON CAMPUS HOUSING
www.apu.edu/housing/
Office of Housing Services provides logistical support, helping undergraduate students secure their housing assignments, issuing keys and furniture, and maintaining student housing records.
NON-CAMPUS RENTAL PROPERTY (AZUSA VICINITY)
www.apu.edu/asset/
The Office of Asset Management manages Azusa Pacific University’s non-campus properties, offering assistance to students, faculty, and staff with rentals, purchases, and work orders.
Other Resources
County Mental Health Rio Hondo Mental Health Center 17707 Studebaker Rd. Cerritos, CA (562) 402-0688
Crisis Hotline (800) 854-7771
Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-8255 Press 1
Other Mental Health Services 2-1-1 County Hotline
VA Crisis Hotline (800) 273-8552 (TALK) Or TEXT to 838255
North Orange County Veterans Center (714) 776-0161 or (877) 927-8387 12453 Lewis St., Suite 101
Garden Grove, CA 92840
Anaheim’s Veterans Health Clinic 1801 W. Romneya Drive Suite 303 Anaheim, CA 92801
(714) 780-5400
VA Long Beach Healthcare System 5901 E. 7th Street
Long Beach, CA 90822 (562) 826-5353
Counseling 24/7 (PTSD) (800) 342-9647
County Alcohol and Drug Services SAMHSA’S National Hotline (800) 662-4357
Department Of Public Social Services Substance Abuse 1-800-564-6600
Local Domestic Violence Resources National Domestic Violence Hotline (800) 799-7233
Domestic Violence Hotline LA County (800) 978-3600 Orange County (888) 600-4359 Riverside County (800) 464-1123 San Bernardino (909) 387-2020
Other Resources
Homeless Resource VA National Call Center for Homeless Vets (877) 424-3838
www.va.gov/homeless
US Veterans Inc./Villages at Cabrillo (562) 388-8001
Volunteers of America (213) 228-1911 ext. 3550 (213) 589-0442
RRRP (Rapid Response Referral Program) (855) 917-2743
National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (800) 838-4357
Legal Resources Public Counsel
Paul Freese
610 South Ardmore Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90005 Tel: (213) 385-2977 Ext. 109
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles Long Beach Courthouse
415 W. Ocean Blvd., Room 505 Long Beach, CA 90802
(800) 399-4529
Community Agencies/Non Profits Women Veterans Health Care
5901 E. 7th Street, Long Beach, CA 90822 Located on the first floor in building 126 (562) 826-5633
VA information on women veterans
Other Resources
Additional Veterans Services National Veterans Foundation 9841 Airport Blvd Suite 418 Los Angeles, CA 90045 Office: (310) 642-0255 (888) 777-4443
VA Long Beach Healthcare Homeless Outreach
POC: Mechel Stanley, RN
5901 E. 7th Street, Bldg. 126, Room K127-B Long Beach, CA 90822
(562) 826-8000 Ext. 4822
Greater Los Angeles Veterans Healthcare Systems Homeless Program
POC: Michael Johnson or Deborah 11301 Wilshire Blvd Bldg. 206 Los Angeles, CA 90073
