Cabrillo College is a federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution that provides an array of transfer, degree, and certificate programs for students. Cabrillo College empowers students to be effective communicators, critical thinkers, and responsible world citizens. With a commitment to quality and equity, we connect all learners to pathways that propel them from where they are to where they aspire to be, including: academic, personal, and career growth.
Program Information General Description of what students will be doing at this Site:
Provide front line support to veteran and military affiliated students navigating campus services
Offer general guidance on VA educational benefits and refer students to appropriate staff for detailed assistance
Assist with basic questions about enrollment, registration, and campus processes
Identify students who may be in financial or personal distress and connect them with resources such as the Nest (basic needs center) and grant opportunities
Share information about campus and community support services (financial aid, counseling, basic needs, etc.)
Maintain a welcoming and supportive environment for students seeking assistance
Collaborate with staff to ensure students are directed to the correct offices for specialized help
Key Responsibilities:
Assist with processing and submitting VA educational benefit certifications (e.g., enrollment certification)
Monitor student enrollment to help ensure disbursement of benefits
Provide general guidance on VA education benefits and refer students to appropriate staff for complex cases
Support students with basic questions about registration, enrollment, and academic processes Identify students experiencing financial or personal challenges and connect them with resources (e.g., basic needs services, grants, and campus support programs)
Share information about available campus and community resources
Provide front line customer service in a student-facing environment Collaborate with staff to support student success and retention
Desired Intern Characteristics:
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Attention to detail and ability to manage confidential information Interest in working with veteran and diverse student populations
Organizational and problem-solving skills
Ability to navigate administrative systems and learn policies quickly Professionalism, reliability, and empathy
Special Considerations:
Students may be exposed to sensitive personal and financial information; confidentiality is essential Training will be provided on VA benefits and college systems
Familiarity with military culture is helpful but not required Work environment includes both independent tasks and team collaboration
Interprofessional opportunities available for the student:
Collaboration with Financial Aid, Admissions & Records, Counseling, and Disabled Student Services
Exposure to public policy and regulations related to veteran education benefits
Coordination with external agencies such as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Opportunities to engage in cross-functional teamwork supporting student success
Concentration: Social Work
Format of Service:
- Remote Service
- In-Person Service
Type of Service:
- Direct Client Service
- Indirect Service
The following CHHS Competencies that the student will be exposed to:
- Collaboration
- Cross Cultural Competency
- Financial management
- Information Management
- Knowledge of Health & Human Services (SW or CH)
- Leadership
- Personal & Professional Communication
- Professional Development
- Public Policy Analysis
- Systems Management
Trainings/ staff meetings offered or required:
Exposure to VA online training modules related to certification processes and compliance
Regular review and discussion of VA policies and updates to ensure accurate benefit certification practices
Training is primarily provided through hands on experience, staff guidance, and mentorship within the Veterans Resource Center