Abstract
This study examined the lives of student veterans, during their first full academic year in higher education, after they had left the military. Using a case study approach, this research project followed nine student veterans as they navigated the Fall and Spring semesters at a university to learn how they approached the different challenges faced by each. Enlistment, Fraternization, Traversing, Conquering, and Awareness emerged through data analysis. Tinto’s theory of student departure and theory of belonging were used to assess these experiences, looking into how they maintained their endurance and dedication to finishing the year. As a result of these experiences, certain recommendations were constructed to address the challenges, and aid in future lives of student veterans.