Sources for Disabled Vet/Education costs

[RENARDWC at ctrvax.Vanderbilt.Edu]

One fine day Christina HPMD asked:

HPMD> I recently received an inquiry from an HD amp, Viet Nam Vet, now
      age 51, from Ohio.  He recently finished his undergraduate degree
      in Rehab counselling and now wants to go on for his Masters
      degree, but is looking for sources to pay for tuition.

I was not aware of an undergrad degree in this field--the degree is
usually a master's + level, but for the moment, let's assume (could be
an incorrect one) the gentleman's HD is connected to his military
service (Naam certainly produced its fair share) and he did get this
piece of paper.

HMPD> He has "used up" his  veterans vocational educational entitlements
      and his State Vocational Rehab as well. I'm at a loss here as to
      where else to look.

First, he should check with the university he plans to attend. Folks in
financial aid often know about available resources specifically related
to the particular school.

But more related to Voc Rehab:

VA Voc rehab is primarily a 'jobs' rather than an 'education' program.
They become involved when the client cannot find employment and with
only an undergrad degree, the gentleman should approach Voc Rehab with
employment as a primary consideration with education (his graduate
degree) a secondary matter. A means to an end--a job. Since the rehab
field usually requires a graduate degree, he could rightfully asked to
be reevaluated by Voc Rehab since his undergrad degree is not adequate
to find employment. If he calls 1-800-827-1000 he will be linked into
his regional office where he can ask for an application. Once completed,
Voc Rehab is required to schedule him for reevaluation to determine his
eligibility. If the job he seeks requires an MA level degree, he stands
a decent chance of being eligible for further education to obtain a job.
And with that level amputation, he is likely to qualify for %100.

The VA recently opened up some opportunity for employment with holders
of an undergrad degree in 'claims examining'. The search is nationwide
for about the last three years and a BA might get him into one of those
gigs. They are GS-9 or 10. Their 'rehab counselor' jobs usually require
an MA with an internship and carry a GS-12 rating. Hence the need for
additional education.

HPMD> Frankly I was shocked and amazed, for I always believed that our
      Vets are entitled to any and all reimbursement for educational
      purposes (as well they should be) but obviously I have not had to
      deal with this bureaucracy.

Naaaaw. If only it were so. I served four years and then sucked up my GI
Bill during which time I became an amputee. Not service related. So no
help. Back in the day (the roaring sixties and early seventies) you were
allowed one month of school for each month served. Once you used up your
allotment, it was gone. But I hung around school for seven, with no GI
Bill benefits, starving to death haha, but god knows it was fun, fun,
fun. I think there also might be a ten year time limitation beginning
from date of expiration of term of service. The Montgomery GI Bill used
to have this proviso, but a phone call could clarify for this gentleman.

HPMD> Any and all suggestions from all you guys, disabled and abled
      Veterans, would be greatly appreciated. Where else can an amp look
      for financial help to further his/her education??

There is also the Disabled Vets of American, which may offer him some
assistance. Be curious to hear how he makes out.


Wayne Renardson