Veterans Resource Center InternAt — Cypress College

The Cypress College Veterans Resource Center (VRC) offers a comprehensive suite of academic services tailored to support military-affiliated students, including veterans, active-duty personnel, reservists, and their dependents. These services are designed to facilitate academic success and a smooth transition into college life.

Academic Services Offered:

• Academic and Career Counseling: Personalized guidance to help students develop educational plans, select appropriate courses, and explore career pathways.

• Student Educational Plans (SEPs): Structured plans outlining the courses needed to achieve educational goals, developed in collaboration with academic counselors.

• Tutoring Services: Access to free tutoring in subjects such as accounting, biology, chemistry, languages, psychology, physics, and writing through the Learning Resource Center (LRC). Services include one-on-one sessions, small group tutoring, and online support via Canvas.

• Math and Writing Support: Specialized assistance is available through the Math Learning Center and the Cypress Writing Center, offering tutoring and workshops to enhance skills in these areas.

• Assessment Services: Evaluation of skills in reading, English, and mathematics to determine appropriate course placement.

• Book Loan and Voucher Programs: Programs designed to alleviate financial burdens by providing access to necessary textbooks and supplies.

• “Outside the Wire” Mental Health Program: Mental health services tailored to the unique needs of veterans, supporting overall well-being and academic performance.

The VRC is located in Building 8, Room 101, and serves as a central hub for these services. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the VRC at (714) 484-7150.

Tasks:

These are general tasks. The Intern will not be responsible for all of these assignments listed below.

1. Administrative Proficiency

Tasks:

• Process Educational Benefits: Guide interns through the steps of assisting veterans with applications for benefits such as the GI Bill, ensuring they understand documentation requirements and deadlines.
• Manage Student Records: Train interns to input and update student information in the college's database systems, maintaining accuracy and confidentiality.
• Coordinate Appointments: Assign interns to schedule counseling sessions and follow-ups, utilizing the center's scheduling tools.

Assessment Methods:

• Supervisor Evaluations: Regular reviews of the intern's accuracy and efficiency in handling administrative tasks.
• Task Completion Logs: Interns maintain records of tasks completed, noting any challenges and solutions.

2. Student Engagement and Communication

Tasks:

• Front Desk Operations: Interns manage the reception area, greeting visitors, and directing them appropriately.
• Information Sessions: Assist in organizing and presenting at orientation sessions for new veteran students.
• Feedback Collection: Conduct surveys or informal interviews with students to gather feedback on VRC services.

Assessment Methods:

• Peer Feedback: Collect input from staff and students on the intern's communication effectiveness.
• Reflective Journals: Interns document interactions, reflecting on communication strategies and areas for improvement.

3. Resource Coordination and Outreach

Tasks:

• Resource Compilation: Develop and update a directory of campus and community resources available to veterans.
• Event Planning: Organize workshops or seminars in collaboration with external organizations.
• Social Media Management: Create content to promote VRC events and resources on social platforms.

Assessment Methods:

• Project Reports: Interns submit summaries of events organized, including attendance and feedback.
• Supervisor Reviews: Evaluate the intern's ability to coordinate with external partners and manage logistics.

4. Professional Development

Tasks:

• Time Management: Interns create weekly schedules balancing their responsibilities and deadlines.
• Team Meetings: Participate in staff meetings, contributing updates and insights.
• Professional Workshops: Attend sessions on topics like workplace etiquette and career planning.

Assessment Methods:

• Self-Evaluations: Interns assess their growth in areas like punctuality, reliability, and teamwork.
• Mentor Feedback: Regular check-ins with assigned mentors to discuss professional development.

Training:

1. Comprehensive Orientation
   -Overview of VRC Services: Introduce interns to the range of services offered, including academic advising, mental health support, and career counseling.
   -Understanding Veteran Needs: Provide insights into the unique challenges faced by veteran students to foster empathetic and effective support.
2. Skill Development Workshops
   • Administrative Systems Training: Hands-on sessions with the college's information systems for managing student data and services.
   • Communication Skills: Workshops focused on active listening, professional correspondence, and conflict resolution.
3. Mentorship and Supervision
   • Assigned Mentors: Pair interns with experienced staff members for guidance, feedback, and professional growth.
   • Regular Check-Ins: Schedule periodic meetings to assess progress, address challenges, and adjust training as needed.
4. Reflective Practices
   • Journaling: Encourage interns to maintain journals documenting experiences, lessons learned, and personal growth.
   • Feedback Sessions: Conduct sessions where interns can reflect on their performance and receive constructive feedback.

Learning Outcome:

Learning Outcome #1: Conduct Comprehensive Biopsychosocial Assessments Tailored to Military-Affiliated Students

Interns will develop the ability to perform thorough biopsychosocial assessments that consider the unique experiences and challenges faced by military-affiliated students. This includes understanding the impact of military culture, deployment cycles, and reintegration into civilian life on students' academic performance and well-being.

Learning Outcomes #2. Develop and Implement Individualized Service Plans Connecting Students to Campus and Community Resources

Interns will learn to create and execute personalized service plans that link military-affiliated students with appropriate campus services (e.g., academic advising, counseling) and community resources (e.g., VA benefits, housing assistance). This involves coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure a holistic support system.

Learning Outcomes #3. Apply Trauma-Informed Care Principles in Supporting Students with Service-Related Experiences

Interns will gain proficiency in applying trauma-informed care approaches when working with military-affiliated students who may have experienced combat, military sexual trauma, or other service-related stressors. This includes recognizing signs of trauma, providing appropriate interventions, and fostering a safe and supportive environment.

These learning outcomes are designed to equip interns with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively support military-affiliated students in higher education settings, addressing their unique needs and promoting their academic and personal success.