The following is from O2O graduate Terra Melson:

I was interested in adding cybersecurity to my law practice, and while attending the Army’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) I learned Syracuse University’s D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) provides wonderful educational opportunities for veterans. Their program, Onward to Opportunity, is aimed at enhancing their marketability in the labor force and immersion in a robust community of like-minded veterans. I faced many challenges after my transition, which overlapped with my coursework at IVMF. Namely, I experienced the physical and mental ramifications related to my time in service which, at times, affected my ability to complete my coursework. My IVMF instructor was beyond compassionate and created a highly supportive environment that was conducive to these challenges. When I retired, there were not enough veterans taking advantage of programs like the IVMF. 

After contacting the instructor, I enrolled in the O2O online program, where I learned about customer service excellence in the business management industry. The program also offers several pathways to obtain certifications, including AWS Cloud, Project Management Professional Certification (PMP), CompTIA, and more. These certifications not only assist in transitioning to a new career, but also provide a competitive advantage in the marketplace. If you’re unsure which path to take, the program offers a multi-phased process to help you select the best learning pathway. Upon completion of the orientation and assessments, the IVMF team will review your assessment and enroll you in the desired career track for the next available cohort. Additionally, the program offers soft skills training in areas such as resume building, mock interviews, and job hunting skills, providing all the necessary resources to take you wherever you desire.

Last year, I established my own company, Faux the Love of Legal, PLLC, which is dedicated to providing legal services with kindness, passion, and compassion. We aim to change the legal stereotype to one of conscience, empowering innovators in the vegan industry and inspiring further innovation in the vegan community. Our vision is to create a healthier, more sustainable and cruelty-free world.

The veteran population at IVMF has grown significantly, and I highly recommend it to any veteran who has aspirations of advancing their education, skills, and abilities to give back to our veteran community positively.