Veteran education is more than a classroom experience—it’s a journey of identity, resilience, and growth. In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, we feature Kiran Mistry, Assistant Director of the UCLA Veteran Resource Center, who shares how UCLA is reshaping the future for veterans and military-connected students in higher education.

Kiran’s inspiring path—from a career in collegiate volleyball coaching to leading one of the most impactful veteran support programs in the UC system—is a masterclass in following your passion while serving others. He offers candid insights into what it takes to create meaningful veteran education programs, from peer mentorship and career pathways to supporting graduate-level veterans and bridging service gaps often overlooked by traditional systems.

This episode dives deep into UCLA’s innovative strategies for empowering veterans: how students are running their own programming, how community college outreach is expanding access, and how real stories from real students are breaking barriers through digital storytelling.

🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What makes UCLA’s Veteran Resource Center stand out

• How graduate and professional school applicants are being supported

• How peer-led programs foster community and academic excellence

• Tips for veterans researching schools and maximizing their benefits

• Stories of student success and perseverance in the face of adversity

If you're a transitioning service member, military spouse, or dependent planning your next educational move, this conversation will give you tools, hope, and direction. Listen, follow, and share the lifeline.

🔗 Find us online:
Website: vetsospodcast.com
Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM
YouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
Socials: @vetsospodcast on all platforms

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