USD Military-Connected Student Handbook

University of San Diego: Military and Veterans Center and Program Military-Connected Student Handbook Updated June 2022

Table of Contents I.

About the University of San Diego

II.

Military and Veterans Program (MVP) and Center

III.

Professional Staff Directory

IV.

VA Education Benefits at the University of San Diego A. Applying for VA Education Benefits B. Student Responsibilities for using VA Education Benefits C. Certifying VA Education Benefits at the University of San Diego D. Parent School Letters E. Change of Program or Major

V.

VA Work-Study Program

VI.

On-Campus Resources A. Academic Success & Accessibility B. Health & Wellbeing C. Family Services & Resources D. University Services

VII.

Veteran Affairs Resources

VIII.

Local and National Resources

USD Crisis Support (Available 24 hrs a day/ 7 days a week): 619-260-2222 can be reached by calling Counseling Center 619-260-4655 or Department of Public Safety ext.

2222 on any campus telephone Veterans Crisis Line: (800) 273-8255 (TALK), press “1” for Veterans This is a free, 24-hour hotline available to Veterans who may be in suicidal crisis or emotional distress (or anyone concerned about them) . Text and chat are also available.

National Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741

About the University of San Diego USD Vision Statement The University of San Diego sets the standard for an engaged, contemporary Catholic university where innovative changemakers confront humanity's urgent challenges.

USD Mission Statement The University of San Diego is a Roman Catholic institution committed to advancing academic excellence, expanding liberal and professional knowledge, creating a diverse and inclusive community, and preparing leaders who are dedicated to ethical conduct and compassionate service.

Military and Veterans Program (MVP) & Center MVP Mission Statement The USD Military & Veterans Program provides student-focused services to all USD military-connected students, from their initial consideration of higher education, through services when they are enrolled as students and in their transition to alumni status. USD MVP services enhance military and veteran students’ abilities to achieve their higher education and career goals effectively, from a quality institution, while using their benefits as efficiently as possible.

USD MVP nurtures the academic success and personal growth of all military-connected students. We communicate the value that our military population brings to the campus and the greater community, and in turn, we counter negative stereotyping.

Our program and center are within the Division of Student Affairs.

MVP Contact Information www.sandiego.edu/military Located in University Center (UC) Room 225|619- 260-7483| military@sandiego.edu facebook.com/usdmilitary | Instagram: @usdmilitary

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Purpose of the Center The center is the physical space on the USD campus dedicated to military-connected students. The center is where the program operates from and houses the following services and amenities: ➔ Conference Room: quiet study space for students or small groups with a microwave, mini-fridge, toaster, whiteboards with markers and erasers. ➔ Lounge Space: free coffee, computers for student use, printer, TV, sofas ➔ Printing: 10 free pages per day and students can also print from their laptops with the printer cable

Professional Staff Directory ● ● ● ●

Military and Veterans Program Director, Nelson Chase, nchase@sandiego.edu Military and Veterans Program Assistant Director/ School Certifying Official, Caroline Walsh, carolinewalsh@sandiego.edu Military and Veterans Academic Success Coordinator, Tiffany Anderson, tiffanyanderson@sandiego.edu MVP Phone # 619-260-7483

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VA Education Benefits at the University of San Diego Applying for VA Education Benefits Complete the application for Veterans Affairs (VA) Education Benefits on the VA website. The VA will mail your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to you in approximately 30-45 days.

In addition.: A. Are you a veteran? Submit VA Form 22-1990.

B. Are you a dependent using transferred Post 9/11 GI Bill® benefits? Submit VA Form 22-1990E. C. Are you a dependent of a 100% disabled or deceased veteran? Submit VA Form 22-5490.

D. Have you previously used your benefits at another institution? ○

If you are a veteran, complete VA Form 22-1995.

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If you’re a dependent, complete VA Form 22-5495.

Certifying VA Education Benefits at the University of San Diego Students wishing to use VA education benefits of any kind must fill out the Request to Certify Form for each term*, even if they are currently or have previously processed benefits. ●

Students are required to submit a VA Certificate of Eligibility with their form.

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A student must be registered for classes for the upcoming semester to complete the form.

*Law School and Paralegal Students do not use this form. They should contact their program to certify their education benefits.

After the form is submitted, the Military and Veterans Program will submit the VA certification through the VA Once System. When the certification is submitted to VA, the Office of Financial Aid will be notified. It will calculate tuition/fees to be awarded to the student’s financial aid award based on current year Post 9/11 GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon Amounts.

Student Responsibilities for using VA Education Benefits ●

Students are responsible for tracking the remaining benefit entitlement with the VA and/or E-Benefits to ensure ample benefit entitlement remains when requesting to process benefits for each semester.

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VA education benefit information on student financial aid accounts is estimated at the beginning of each term. VA Benefits may be adjusted when payment is received by the university or during a VA or university audit.

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The student is responsible for monitoring their financial aid and student account information to ensure accurate benefit information is applied and notifying military@sandiego.edu if there are any discrepancies. VA education benefits are not guaranteed to cover the entire student bill for any given semester.

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The student is responsible for understanding their benefit entitlement and student bill.

Dropping or Adding Classes, Withdrawals, Overpayments and Underpayments The Military and Veterans Program must report unit changes immediately to the VA. Students must report adds, drops, and withdrawals to the Military and Veterans Program.In order to avoid possible overpayment of benefits and subsequent billing from the VA or the university, it is imperative to immediately report all course changes, withdrawals, etc. This may be done via email, phone call, or in person.

MVP Contact Information www.sandiego.edu/military Located in Hahn University Center (UC) Room 225|619- 260-7483| military@sandiego.edu facebook.com/usdmilitary | Instagram: @usdmilitary

Rate of Pursuit and Training Time Training time and rate of pursuit are provided for reference only. Variations in full-time equivalency may exist.

Chapters 30, 31, 35, 1606, and 1607 Standard Semester In a standard semester (Spring and Fall), training time is measured as follows:

Full-Time

Undergraduate

Graduate*

Doctoral

12+ units

9+ units

6+ units

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¾ Time

9-11 units

6.75 units

4.5 units

>½ Time

6.5-8 units

5 units

3.5 units

Half Time

4-6 units

4.5 units

3 units

¼ Time

1-3 units

1-4 units

1-2 units

*Online graduate degrees and the Master’s Degree in Cyber Security Engineering have different term dates than traditional semester-length programs and have their own pursuit rate. These programs are designed to be part-time.

Chapter 33 (Post 9/11 GI Bill®) Standard Semester In a standard semester (Spring and Fall), the rate of pursuit is measured as follows:VA calculates the rate of pursuit by dividing the number of units being pursued by the number of units considered to be full-time by the school. The resulting percentage is your rate of pursuit.

Examples: If full-time is considered 12 units, the rate of pursuit for: ●

6 units is 50% (6 ÷ 12 = 50%)

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7 units is 60% (7 ÷ 12 = 58%)

USD considers 12 units for undergraduate students, 9 units for graduate students*, and 6 units for doctoral students to be full-time.

The housing allowance is paid only if the student’s rate of pursuit is more than 50%.

The rate of pursuit determines whether a student receives or doesn’t receive the housing allowance. If the pursuit is more than 51% the student receives the housing allowance. If the rate of pursuit is 50% or less, then the student doesn’t receive the housing allowance. Remember, the housing allowance is also prorated by the student's length of service percentage and rate of pursuit.

Active-duty personnel (including those on terminal leave) and their spouses utilizing transferred entitlements are not eligible for the housing allowance.

Training Time for Summer/Intersession Semesters Summer training time is different from Spring and Fall. Training time is based on the number of weeks the class meets, as well as the number of units required for the course. Most (not all) Page 5

summer classes are either three, six, or twelve weeks in length. Intersession courses are three weeks in length.

NOTE ON TERM DATES: Different beginning and ending dates are considered to be separate terms. USD reports actual beginning dates, ending dates, and the number of credits. The VA makes the conversion, not the university.

Parent School Letters To get approval to take a course outside of USD, students must complete the Request for Transfer Articulation process. This can be done online from your MySanDiego portal. The Transfer Articulation Form is located under the My Academics tab of the Torero Hub in the box titled “Transfer Articulation”. Click on the “Request for Transfer Articulation” link. To use VA benefits for these courses, students must request a parent letter and provide the following information to our certifying official at military@sandiego.edu: ●

Course Information (Subject and Course #)

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Course Schedule (start-end dates)

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If the course schedule differs from primary school enrollment dates, the rate of pursuit may be affected

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Contact information for the Secondary School’s Certifying Official

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Copy of the course description from the college catalog

IMPORTANT: Parent School Letters are subject to approval. Courses offered by secondary colleges must be approved by the University of San Diego to confirm course equivalency. You can submit an Transfer Credit/Articulation request on your student portal.

Students should follow up with the secondary college Veterans Affairs Office for certification processing times. Upon completion of the approved course(s), students will be required to submit official transcripts no later than one (1) month after the completion of the semester/session.

Failure to submit transcripts from your secondary college will result in a delay in future enrollment certification for VA Education Benefits.

Change of Program or Major Students should notify our office when they change their program or degree plan (change of major) and fill out the following form: VA Change of Program Form.

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It is not advisable to change your education plan mid-semester/session because it may result in a decertification or an overpayment (which may need to be repaid to the university or the VA).

VA Work-Study Program Students using VA Education Benefits can apply for an eligible part-time position under the VA Work-Study program. To be eligible, students must meet all of the following criteria: ●

Be enrolled at least three-quarter time in a college degree, vocational, or professional program,

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Have found an open job either at a nearby VA facility or in a VA-related role at your school,

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Can finish the work-study contract while you still qualify for education benefits, and

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Be using an approved VA education benefits program to pay for your education or training.

Approved VA education benefits programs include: ●

Post-9/11 GI Bill for Veterans & family members using transferred benefits

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Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD) & Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)

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Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)

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The Edith Nourse Rogers Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) Scholarship

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Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) ○

(Note: Dependents who qualify under 38 U.S.C. Chapter 35 may use work study only while enrolled at a school in one of the 50 states.)

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National Call to Service

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Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)

Students may get a job that’s related to VA work, meets their interests, and fills a need. Examples include: ●

College, university, or other institution of higher learning in any Veteran-related role

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VA facility

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Dept of Defense, Coast Guard, or National Guard location that oversees MGIB-SR or REAP

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State Veterans’ agency to help Veterans get VR&E benefits

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Center of Excellence for Veteran Student Success to support the academic, financial, physical, and social needs of Veteran students

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A cooperative program that the VA runs together with a college, university, or other institution of higher learning Page 7

Benefits ●

Students earn an hourly wage that’s the same as the federal minimum wage or your state minimum wage, whichever is greater

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VA work-study pay is non-taxable

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Connect with & support fellow military-connected individuals

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Enhance your resume

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Develop valuable leadership/communication skills

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Networking opportunities

USD’S VA Work-Study Opportunities include MVP’s Military Student Ambassador Program Student ambassadors are essential in helping our center fulfill its mission to support prospective and current military-connected students at USD. They assist in our center's daily operations, organize and facilitate the center's events, and may work on projects as needed. Areas that ambassadors work in include academics and financial aid, operations, and admissions and outreach. Our center advertises open positions through our communications and social media.

Please reach out to military@sandiego.edu for more information. Applications to the VA are submitted by the Assistant Director, Military and Veteran Services and Compliance to the VA. Applying for Positions Outside of USD MVP ●

Find a position you want to apply for and connect with the supervisor

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Complete the Application for Work-Study Allowance (VA Form 22-8691)

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Submit the form on the VA’s Ask a Question online platform

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On-Campus Resources|Academic Success & Accessibility Center for Student Success The CSS offers Student Success Coaching where professional staff and peer coaches meet with any undergraduate student experiencing challenges at USD that impact academic performance and persistence. The CSS also processes undergraduate leaves of absence and withdrawals from the university. ●

Center for Student Success

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Located in UC 114 | Phone: 619- 260-5995 |css@sandiego.edu

Computer Labs & Equipment Checkouts Apart from Copley Library, PC and Mac computer support labs are also available across campus. Equipment such as laptops, computer/phone chargers, headphones, Mac display adapters, and calculators are also available for checkout. For more information, such as locations, hours of operation, and software programs, check out their website.

Copley Library The Helen K. and James S. Copley Library offer services such as research and subject specialists, computer and equipment checkout, group study rooms, etc. Hours are extended to 24 hours in the last weeks of the semester in preparation for final exams. ●

Phone: 619- 260-4799 | copley@sandiego.edu

Disability and Learning Difference Resource Center The Disability and Learning Difference Resource Center (DLDRC) is committed to helping students with disabilities obtain meaningful academic accommodations and support and to help improve access to the many excellent programs and activities offered by the University. Our services include evaluating disability documentation, arranging academic accommodations, and providing disability management/counseling to students with disabilities. ●

Located in Sts. Tekakwitha and Serra Hall 300|Phone: 619- 260-4655 | disabilityservices@sandiego.edu

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Learning Commons The Learning Commons features nine collaborative study spaces and 13 classrooms — and offers the flexibility that faculty and students need for multidisciplinary instruction, seminars, small-group work, and individual study at all hours of the day and night. ●

Located behind Copley Library

Tutoring The College of Arts and Sciences offer tutoring services for the following subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Languages Cultures & Literatures, Math, Physics, Psych Sciences

Writing Center In one-on-one consultations at the writing center, writing consultants provide students critical reflection and constructive feedback during the multiple stages of the writing process, from planning to composing to revision. In this process, students develop strategies for improving their writing, gaining confidence in their writing, and developing educational independence. ●

Located in the Learning Commons Room 203| 619- 260-4581| writingcenter@sandiego.edu

On-Campus Resources|Health & Wellbeing On-Campus Crisis Support (Available 24 hrs a day/ 7 days a week) can be reached by calling Counseling Center 619-260-4655 or Department of Public Safety ext. 2222 on any campus telephone, otherwise call 619-260-2222.

Campus Assault and Resources Education Campus Assault Resources and Education (CARE) is the University of San Diego's primary effort to provide support, resources, and education to the student community pertaining to sexual assault and relationship violence. It is important for victims/survivors to know that the resources contained on this website can offer assistance even if you choose not to file a report or press charges. ●

https://www.sandiego.edu/care/ | (619-260-2396 Page 10

Campus Recreation & Fitness Campus Recreation strives to offer a variety of fitness, wellness, and adventure opportunities that integrate habits promoting health in mind, body, and spirit. We aim to offer diverse, multi-level programs that foster personal development within a supportive community. Fitness Centers available to enrolled students include the Bosley Fitness Center, McNamara Fitness Center, and the Sports Center and Pool. ●

Located in Sports Center 102 | 619-260-4533 | campusrecreation@sandiego.edu

Center for Health and Wellness Promotion The Center for Health and Wellness Promotion (CHWP) provides the University of San Diego community with a comprehensive array of health and wellness initiatives and clinical alcohol and other drug services. Services include individual clinical consultations, assessments, education, 12-step facilitation and support, and referrals. ●

Located in UC 161 | 619-260-4618 | chwp@sandiego.edu

Counseling Center The Counseling Center provides free, confidential, counseling services to enrolled students.

Services include individual psychological and psychiatric consultations, community referrals, therapy, support groups, etc. ●

Located in Sts. Tekakwitha and Serra Hall | 619- 260-4655 |USD myWellness Portal

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As part of USD’s ongoing efforts to prioritize the health and well-being of the campus community, students now have free and immediate access to medical and mental health support through TimelyCare. ○

TimelyCare offers students a 24/7 extension of campus health and counseling center resources that is as easy and convenient as making a video or phone call. Through the TimelyCare app on their phone or another device, students can now select from a wide-ranging menu of virtual care options from licensed physicians and counselors in all 50 states – at no cost to them and without the hassle of traditional insurance – including: ■

On-demand medical care

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Appointment-based medical care

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On-demand mental health support (TalkNow) Page 11

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Appointment-based mental health counseling

Department of Public Safety The Department of Public Safety supports the mission and goals of the University of San Diego by providing a full range of community-oriented crime prevention and crime control services to contribute to the safety and security of the campus community. ●

Non-Emergency: 619-260-7777; Services include escorts for students walking alone on campus after dark, providing jumper cables, women’s self-defense courses & other training, etc.

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Emergency: 619-260-2222; Available 24/7 for campus emergencies, evacuation alerts, on-call crisis counselor, etc.

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https://www.sandiego.edu/safety/ | Located in Hughes 150

USD Food Pantry & Torero Closet The USD Food Pantry and Torero Closet in Hahn University Center (UC) 116 include food, school supplies, hygiene supplies, laundry detergent, professional clothing, etc.

Additionally, we have a refrigerator and freezer to offer students fresh produce, dairy, and additional protein options. This confidential resource is available to any student experiencing food or financial insecurity. ●

For access, please email Jelitsa Fonseca jelitsafonseca@sandiego.edu.

Student Health Center Quality, accessible, and convenient outpatient medical care is provided for urgent illnesses, minor injuries, preventive care, chronic medical problems, and specialty services. ●

https://www.sandiego.edu/health-center/

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Located in Maher Hall 140 | 619-260-4595

↳

Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP): All USD full-time Undergraduate, Graduate, and Law students are required to have health insurance. At the beginning of every academic year, students need to decide to enroll or to demonstrate proof of insurance.

Title IX Title IX is a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on sex in educational programs and activities that receive Federal financial assistance. Examples of programs and activities Page 12

that are subject to Title IX include admissions, recruitment, financial aid, academic programs, athletics, housing, and employment. Title IX also protects students from sexual harassment, including sexual violence, such as rape, other forms of sexual assault, sexual battery, and sexual coercion. ●

https://www.sandiego.edu/titleix/

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Located in Maher Hall 101| (619) 260-4594 | titleix@sandiego.edu

On-Campus Resources|University Services Campus Card This office is responsible for the administration of Campus Cash and meal plans and the distribution of Torero ID, gift, and Alcala Advantage cards, as well as the administration of the Onity door lock system. ●

https://www.sandiego.edu/campus-card/

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Located in UC 127| 619-260-5999 | campuscard@sandiego.edu

Career Development Center The Career Development Center supports and guides students to develop and achieve career goals that lead to meaningful lives. This site provides resources to assist students and connect them with employers. They provide one-to-one advising and host events such as the Torero Talent Job and Career Fair. ●

https://www.sandiego.edu/careers/

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Located in Manchester Hall, 101| 619-260-4654|careers@sandiego.edu

Meal Plans and Campus Cash With global food costs rising at an unprecedented rate, a meal plan gives you peace of mind. No need to worry about what the unpredictable grocery store and restaurant food prices will be next week or six months from now. A Torero meal plan provides you with a set meal budget for the entire year, as current plan rates are guaranteed for both the fall and spring semesters. Military-connected transfer students may choose to purchase a voluntary meal plan. First and second year on campus military-connected students must purchase a meal plan. Meal plans may be purchased online via MySanDiego (My Torero Services tab).

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Campus Cash is the key to all your purchases and campus services at USD. It is a prepaid declining balance account managed through your Torero ID Card. You may also use Campus Cash off campus! ●

sandiego.edu/campus-card/

Information Technology Services (ITS) Helpdesk ITS provides USD students and employees technical support by troubleshooting problems, repairing computers, and maintaining the USD wireless network. ITS also provides Web email services and student portal access through my.sandiego.edu. ●

Get Help - Information Technology Services - University of San Diego

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Located in UC 117 | 619-260-7900 | help@sandiego.edu

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Computer Labs & Equipment Checkout

USD Legal Clinics USD School of Law's free legal clinics offer assistance to underserved members of society while providing opportunities for students to learn first-hand from highly skilled attorneys and interact directly with actual clients. ↳

Veterans Legal Clinic: Provides free legal assistance to veterans, limited to disputes with for-profit institutions over the use of GI Bill funds and predatory lending, discharge upgrades, and VA Disability Claims appeals. Legal services range from advice to identification of potential claims to the representation of veterans in litigation, arbitration, and before governmental review boards. ●

USD Veterans Legal Clinic

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Located in Barcelona 303 | (619) 260-7470 | veteransclinic@sandiego.edu

Mail Center Our mission is to provide the university community with the ability to communicate and conduct business with each student, staff, faculty, and department through prompt, reliable, secure, and economical services for the collection and delivery of mail. ●

Mail Center - University of San Diego

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Located in Procurement Services (behind Maher Hall)

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619-260-2204 | mailcenter@sandiego.edu

One Stop Student Center Page 14

The One Stop Student Center can answer your Financial Aid, Student Accounts, and Registration questions. One Stop counselors will guide you one-on-one through the sometimes complex transactions of the financial aid, registrar, and student accounts offices. Services are also available online on the One-Stop Services tab of your MySanDiego portal which is available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. ●

www.sandiego.edu/onestop/

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Located in UC 126 |619-260-2700 |onestop@sandiego.edu

Parking Services Parking services provide guidance and assistance to the campus community on all parking-related needs (including e-permits). ●

Parking Information - Office of Parking Services - University of San Diego

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Located in Alcala Park West, Durango Suite B | 619-260-4518 | parking@sandiego.edu

Printing Wēpa is a wireless printing service that allows students to print documents to a wēpa kiosk from their cloud account, the web, a USB drive, their smartphone, or any campus or personal computer. All USD students have a wēpa account already created and tied into their USDOne account. In order to print, you must have funds in your wēpa account (recommended) or campus cash account (using a USD ID card). Refer to the website for kiosk locations and more information. ●

Campus printing by wēpa - Information Technology Services - University of San Diego

Torero Store Purchase textbooks, USD apparel, school supplies, and technology. ●

Located in University Center | 619-260-4551|help@usdtorerostores.com

University Centers, Scheduling, & Ticket Office University Centers' Operations Staff is responsible for the daily operation of the UC and Student Life Pavilion (SLP). The scheduling staff coordinates the scheduling of campus events. The UC Ticket Office offers students the ability to purchase tickets for campus and

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community events including movies. In addition, transit passes and Southern California attraction tickets such as Sea World, Legoland, and the zoo may be purchased. ●

Hahn University Center and Student Life Pavilion

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Located in in the Hanhn University Center outside of Tu Mercado

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Operations & Scheduling: 619-260-4592 | scheduling@sandiego.edu

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Ticket Office: 619-260-2727 | ucticketoffice@sandiego.edu

University Copy University Copy has high-quality printing products and services, delivered on time, at a competitive price. Place your order via our new online ordering portal. ●

University Copy

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Located in Procurement Services (behind Maher Hall)

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(619) 260-4890 | usdcopy@gmail.com

On-Campus Resources | Family Services & Resources Manchester Family Child Development Center California Facility License #370806086 The Center accepts children between the ages of two and a half and five. Both full- and half-time enrollment options are available 2, 3 or 5 days per week. Affiliated with USD's School of Education, the Center serves as a practicum and research site for members of the USD community. Appointments for Center tours are offered on Tuesday mornings. Please call the Center office at (619) 260-4620 or send an e-mail to schedule a tour. ●

​Manchester Family Child Development Center - School of Leadership and Education Sciences - University of San Diego

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Located by the Manchester Village Apartments | (619) 260-4620 | mfcdc@sandiego.edu

Pregnant & Parenting The Pregnant and Parenting site offers information for parents and parents to include on-campus resources, pregnancy resources, lactation spaces, financial aid, housing, childcare solutions, part-time and leave options. ●

Pregnant and Parenting - University of San Diego

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On-Campus Resources | Involvement and Campus Life Military-Connected Student Organizations at USD Student Veteran Organization (SVO): open to everyone including veterans of all services, their dependents, and advocates of the veteran population. The SVO supports and promotes veterans,veteran issues and provides peer support through a solid network of individuals. ●

Student Veteran Organization - ToreroOrgs

Alumni Veteran Network (AVN): founded in 2015 and works to serve the over 4,000 USD alumni Veterans. AVN seeks to make the University of San Diego the nation’s premier destination for veterans seeking education, resources, and fellowship. ●

Alumni Veteran Network

Associated Student Government As the direct link between the administration and the students, (Associated Student Government (ASG) helps discuss and resolve issues that are important to the student body.

Associated Student Government - University of San Diego ●

Located in SLP 312 | 619-260-4715 | ascommunications@sandiego.edu

Athletics The University of San Diego has 17 NCAA Division I teams that compete in the West Coast Conference. All students can receive free tickets to all USD sports teams games. ●

https://usdtoreros.com/

Black Student Resource Commons The BSRC seeks to enhance and increase student success and retention, building community engagement, facilitating identity development, and supporting students' college experience. The BSRC strives to support the academic, social, and personal goals of all black students at the University of San Diego. ●

Black Student Resource Commons - University of San Diego

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Located in SLP 410 | 619-260-4173 | bsrc@sandiego.edu

Changemaker Hub Page 17

A key gathering space where students, faculty, and staff can further explore social change through connecting with others. The space offers multiple opportunities to grow as a Changemaker, whether participating in the Changemaker Challenge, creating your own projects as a Changemaker Summer Fellow, or by getting involved in a designated student club or organization. ●

Changemaker HUB - University of San Diego

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Located in SLP 324 | 619-260-2798

Commuter Commons The Commuter Commons serves as an on-campus home for entering first-year and transfer commuter students and any continuing students who have never lived on campus.

This welcoming space is where students can study, mingle with others, or just relax between classes, and provides commuter students with resources they may need while they are on campus. ●

Located in UC 119 | (619) 260-4190 | commutercommons@sandiego.edu

First-Generation Student Experience The university refers to first-generation students as students who are the first in their family to attend a four-year college, and whose parents have not earned a baccalaureate degree by the time the student has completed high school or a high school equivalency.

Students who fall outside of this definition but still identify as first-generation are welcome to utilize these resources as well. ●

First-Generation College Student Experience - University of San Diego

Graduate and Law Commons Grad Life offers services and amenities to support our Grad/Law community. The Graduate Student Life Team is dedicated to supporting graduate students through programming, services, amenities, and more. ●

Graduate Student Life - University of San Diego

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Located in SLP 401 | (619) 260-2227 | gradlife@sandiego.edu

Graduate Student Council The purpose of the Graduate Student Council (GSC) is to represent all USD graduate and law students to the university administration, serving their needs, and building a strong and successful graduate community.

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Graduate Student Government

LGBTQ+ and Allies Commons A gathering space for LGBTQ+ community members and allies to congregate and participate in community events along with the other Commons offices including the Black Student Resource Commons, United Front Multicultural Commons, and Women's Commons. ●

LGBTQ+ and Allies Commons - University of San Diego

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Located in SLP 424 | 619-260-4517 | lgbtq@sandiego.edu

Mulvaney Center for Community, Awareness and Social Action (CASA) Through reciprocal community-based learning, the Mulvaney Center engages USD students, faculty, staff, and alumni to learn and act in partnership with the community, making life-long commitments to promote social change and justice. ●

The Karen and Tom Mulvaney Center for Community, Awareness and Social Action

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Located in Maher Hall 218 | (619) 260-4798

Outdoor Adventures (OA) OA serves the USD community with opportunities to experience outdoor activities that aim to promote personal growth, leadership development, relationship building, and environmental responsibility. OA offers a variety of local, regional, and international outings, operates a rental shop and resource center for individuals that choose to venture on their own excursions and need some equipment or guidance. ●

Outdoor Adventures - University of San Diego

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Located in UC 136 | (619) 260-4709 | explore@sandiego.edu

Torero Program Board The TPB is a team of student leaders who implement mission-driven events and enrich the Torero experience for the University of San Diego undergraduate students. ●

Torero Program Board - University of San Diego

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Located in SLP 308 | tpb@sandiego.edu

United Front Multicultural Commons

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The UFMC Serves as an educational resource for the university community and will aid the university in developing a campus community that is culturally diverse and responsive to changing local, regional, and national demographics. It works to contest the presence of prejudices and "-isms" at USD while creating an overall inclusive environment. ●

United Front Multicultural Commons - University of San Diego

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Located in SLP 418 |619-260-2395 | ufmc@sandiego.edu

University Ministry- Open to students of all faiths University Ministry is committed to promoting the integration of personal and informed faith, the principles and practice of Catholic Social Thought, and the knowledge and experience of Christian living for the entire USD community. ●

University Ministry

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Located in Founders Hall 20 | (619) 260-4735 | universityministry@sandiego.edu

Women’s Commons The Women’s Commons empowers women to become leaders in a diverse and changing world. It provides resources, engages women and men in educational dialogue about gender-related issues, and advocates for a safe, supportive campus environment that creates equity among all voices. A nursing room for USD parents and their children is located in the center. ●

Women's Commons - University of San Diego

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Located in SLP 420 | 619-260-2396 |womenscenter@sandiego.edu

Depts of Veteran Affairs and Defense Resources Information about VA healthcare, disability, education, career, and employment, pension, housing assistance, resources, etc. ●

Veterans Affairs

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California Department of Veteran Affairs: A hub to learn about federal and state education, employment, healthcare, housing, and claims benefits. ●

CalVet

Veterans Crisis Line (800) 273-8255 (TALK), press “1” for Veterans.

This free, 24-hour hotline is available to Veterans or anyone concerned about them who may be in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Text and chat are also available. ●

Veterans Crisis Line Page 20

Ask the VA A Question The VA has a webpage with several ways to ask questions and find answers to benefits questions. You can even attach documents to your question.

Healthcare Administration The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing care at 1,255 health care facilities, including 170 VA Medical Centers and 1,074 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics) to over 9 million Veterans enrolled in the VA health care program. Use the Facility Locator to find the VA medical facility that will best meet your health care needs using a variety of search methods, including using your ZIP code. ●

Veterans Health Administration

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VA San Diego Health Care System: The VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS) provides high-quality health care with advanced technologies and a commitment to friendly, compassionate service to more than 84,500 Veterans in the San Diego and Imperial Valley counties, with 261,009 Veterans living in the area.

VASDHS is affiliated with the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine.

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VA San Diego Health Care | Veterans Affairs

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Local Office: 3350 La Jolla Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92161| 858- 552-8585

“Make the Connection” This campaign seeks to make it easy for Veterans to “make the connection” between what they are experiencing and the kinds of resources and services that can help them get on a better track. It provides information and allows Veterans to contact others who have made “the connection,” sought services/treatment, and found an improved quality of life. Watch hundreds of Veteran videos and learn more about how to overcome challenges. ●

Make the Connection

Real Warriors Campaign

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The Real Warriors Campaign is an initiative launched by the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE) to promote the processes of building resilience, facilitating recovery, and supporting reintegration of returning service members, veterans, and their families. This website section offers information to help prepare children for a parent’s deployment. ●

Real Warriors Campaign | Health.mil

Local and National Resources Childcare.gov ChildCare.gov helps parents access safe and quality childcare services in their community that best suits their family’s needs. ChildCare.gov provides links to State or Territory child care websites that parents use to search for child care and consumer education information. ●

Childcare.gov

California Child Care Resource and Referral Network The California Child Care Resource & Referral Network has agencies in every county in California that provide free information on choosing child care, referrals to child care centers, and information on how to pay for child care. ●

California Child Care Resource & Referral Network

Cohen Veteran Network Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics provide confidential therapy services to post-9/11 veterans, family members, and loved ones. Each Cohen Clinic will assess all veterans based on their specific needs, and we will make every effort to see pre-9/11 veterans based on clinician availability. CVN has clinic locations across the nation and also offers telehealth appointments. The San Diego office is located at the Veterans Village of San Diego. ●

Local Office: 8885 Rio San Diego Drive, Suite 301, San Diego, CA 92108 | 619-345-4611

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Cohen Clinic San Diego | Veterans Village of San Diego

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National Website: Cohen Veterans Network

EasterSeals Southern CA: Bob Hope Veteran Support Program

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The Bob Hope Veterans Support Program is a program under the EasterSeals organization.

It provides one-on-one employment services and referrals to other resources to meet the unique needs of military personnel and veterans transitioning out of the military into civilian jobs or starting their small businesses. ●

Location Office: 401 S. Ivy Street, Escondido, CA 92025 | (760)737-3990

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Easterseals Southern California | Bob Hope Veterans Support Program

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EasterSeals National Military & Veterans Services: Easterseals Military & Veterans Services

Feeding America Our mission is to feed America’s hungry through a nationwide network of member food banks and engage our country in the fight to end hunger. Find food distribution events and food insecurity resources. ●

Feeding America

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Feeding San Diego: Feeding San Diego

Foundation for Women Warriors Foundation for Women Warriors is A 100-year-old nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring and empowering the women veteran community. Find resources and referrals (including childcare), professional development, and community events.

Hiring Our Heroes The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) initiative was launched in March 2011 as a nationwide effort to connect veterans, service members, and military spouses with meaningful employment opportunities. Find resources such as hiring events, job boards, and career development. ●

Hiring Our Heroes

Institute for Veterans & Military Families: Onward to Opportunity Program, San Diego This program offers two career tracks: Information Technology & Business Management.

Your journey will begin with three days of face-to-face classroom training and facilitation, including the two-day Onward to Your Career course and the one-day foundation course in

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your chosen learning pathway. The classroom portion is followed by 12 weeks of online coursework to earn an industry certification. ●

San Diego - Institute for Veterans and Military Families

Interfaith Community Services, San Diego Based in North San Diego County with four locations, Interfaith Community Services provides support and services such as housing, employment & economic development, clinical & behavioral health, recovery & wellness to veterans. ●

Veteran Service Center: 1617 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92058 | (760) 529-9979

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Interfaith Community Services

Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America IAVA is the leading post-9/11 veteran empowerment organization (VEO) with the most diverse and rapidly growing membership in America. ●

IAVA

Military Skilled Trades Military Skilled Trades offers more than 20 physical career fairs a year and a resume database of service members and veterans with backgrounds in welding, fabrication, coating/painting, electrical, maintenance, HVAC, plumbing, pipefitting, construction, rigging, telecommunications, truck driving, and industrial machinery. ●

Military Skilled Trades -

North County Veterans Stand Down North County Veterans Stand Down is an annual four-day event in Vista, California, that enables homeless veterans from across San Diego County to receive much-needed services in a safe, friendly, drug-free, and secure environment. During their stay at the NCVSD, homeless veterans, their families, and pets will receive food, lodging, clothing, and various services to help them both physically and mentally. ●

North County Veterans Stand Down

Student Veterans of America Page 24

SVA is a 501(c)(3) coalition of student-veteran groups on college campuses across the globe that support students, fund scholarships, train tomorrow's leaders, build centers, raise awareness, protect the G.I. Bill®, conduct research, plan an annual national conference, and coordinate an alumni network. ●

Student Veterans of America

Support the Enlisted Project (STEP)- Serving Southern CA & WA STEP assists junior active duty enlisted members and recently discharged veterans and their families in Southern California facing financial crises to achieve long-term goals of financial self-sufficiency through counseling, education, grants to alleviate critical near-term obligations. ●

Local Office: 9915 Businesspark Ave., Suite A, San Diego, CA 92131 |(858) 695-6810

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Support the Enlisted Project

Up2SD-Mental Health Campaign, San Diego The It’s Up to Us campaign is designed to empower San Diegans to talk openly about mental illness, recognize symptoms, utilize local resources, and seek help. ●

Up2SD.org

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Resources for Veterans/Military: https://up2sd.org/resources/veteransmilitary/

Veterans of Foreign Wars VFW’s mission is to foster camaraderie among United States veterans of overseas conflicts.

To serve our veterans, the military, and our communities. To advocate on behalf of all veterans. ●

VFW

Veterans Village of San Diego VVSD has served all veterans since 1981 and is dedicated to “Leave No One Behind.” With five locations throughout San Diego County, VVSD is the only program of its kind in the United States. It is nationally recognized as the leader in serving homeless military veterans. Each year VVSD provides services to more than 2,000 military veterans throughout the County of San Diego. ●

Local Office: 4141 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92110 | (619) 393-2000

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https://vvsd.net Page 25

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Cohen Family Mental Health Clinic at VVSD

Wounded Warrior Project WWP serves veterans and service members who incurred a physical or mental injury, illness, or wound while serving in the military on or after September 11, 2001. WWP has over 10 locations across the US. ●

Local Office: 8880 Rio San Diego Drive, Suite 900, San Diego, CA 92108 | (619) 981-9642

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Wounded Warrior Project

YMCA Child Care And Out-of-School Time During these challenging times when routines seem to change daily, one thing remains the same: the Y provides a safe, enriching place for children to learn and grow, whether through out-of-school time offerings that complement remote school days or through essential child care for parents returning to work. ●

Child Care Programs and Services - YMCA

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YMCA Childcare Resource Service, San Diego County: Childcare Resource Service | YMCA of San Diego County

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