Gilberto Burbante (right), Nicholls State University coordinator of veterans services, counsels veteran student Daniel Drennan in the university’s Office of Veterans Affairs.
THIBODAUX — For the sixth year in a row, Nicholls State University has been recognized as a Military Friendly School by G.I. Jobs magazine. The honor is given annually to the top 15 percent of American universities that offer the best support, flexibility and value for active duty military and veterans pursuing an education.
“This designation shows how we at Nicholls really go above and beyond to help our veterans,” said Gilberto Burbante, Nicholls coordinator of veterans services. Burbante, a former U.S. Marine and Army National Guard officer, is himself a three-time Iraq War infantry veteran and 2011 Nicholls graduate.
“It’s about more than just the basics of enrolling in college,” he said. “We get them involved in campus life and student organizations and eventually help them to find jobs. When we say we’re military friendly, we really mean it.”
Currently, 158 veterans are enrolled and receiving benefits at Nicholls. The recognition reflects the university’s growing efforts to recruit and retain military students.
The Nicholls Office of Veterans Affairs acts as a one-stop shop, helping veterans to register for classes, navigate financial aid, receive military or transfer credits and even find jobs during the summer break or after graduation. Nicholls also operates a veterans lounge in Shaver Gym to help build community among student veterans and assist in their transition to college life. The Nicholls Veterans Organization provides a social outlet for veteran students, participating in tailgating and other activities.
Members of the military — as well as veterans — can expect priority service when enrolling at Nicholls. Admissions criteria are exempted for veterans who have received an honorable discharge, and enrollees may register before the general student population.
Nicholls administrators have also identified a group of individual advisers to serve as veterans advocates. Veterans may consult with these faculty members for information, advice or understanding as they work their way through university rules and regulations.
For more information about Nicholls’ services for veterans and active service members, call Burbante at 985-448-4208, or go to www.nicholls.edu/veterans.
