College offers vets guidance

JUSTIN COMBS
Editor
editor@occc.edu

With more than 600 veterans enrolled now, and more expected for the spring semester, OCCC’s Veteran’s Office is hustling to keep up with the paperwork, said Janis Armstrong, Veteran’s Services coordinator.

“Helping veterans get certified for educational benefits from the G.I. Bill is the service we provide at the Veterans Office,” Armstrong said.

She encourages veterans to submit their schedules early to the Veterans Office to avoid a delay in payment from their G.I. Bill, as it can take up to 12 weeks to receive a payment.

If there is a delay in getting the G.I. Bill, Armstrong said, her office works with the Bursar’s Office, so the veteran won’t be assessed any late fees or finance fees.

“There are different benefits for different chapters,” said John Mansera Veterans Affairs representative.

“Some veterans receive more money from the G.I. Bill than others depending on what they qualify for.”

Mansera said the Veterans Office also has the ability to refer veterans to different agencies where they can receive the help and benefits they may need.

That helps veterans with “things like where to go for medical, employment, family relief or counseling,” Mansera said.

“I encourage each veteran to stop by the Veterans Office so we can help each veteran out with their individual circumstances.”

For more information, contact Armnstrong at jarmstrong@occc.edu or call 405-682-7527.