January 17, 2025
A native of West Portsmouth, Ohio, Noah O’Rourke enrolled at AIɫɫ after a career in the United States Army where he was a member of the 11b Airborne Infantryman and served in the Afghanistan 2012-2013 Operating Enduring Freedom. Upon his retirement from the Army, he held the rank of Sergeant E-5. He decided to attend SSU to pursue degrees in Computer Engineering Technology and Electromechanical Engineering Technology.
“Both of my brothers are in the computer engineering field, and I have always enjoyed computers like them,” he said on his choice of major. “It also provides me with an opportunity to work remotely so I can spend more time with my family.”
Transitioning from army life to civilian on campus has been aided by his connection with the university’s Office of Military & Veteran Services and Veteran Coordinator Brian Caudill.
“It has been a good transition overall,” he said. “Brian in Veteran’s Services made the transition easy for me and offered all the help I needed to make the transition as smooth as possible. The Student Veterans of America and the Veteran Services Lounge have also made me feel welcome during my transition.”
Having to find a balance between school work and family life during his transition into college life, O’Rourke has been grateful for the support of veteran services on campus. To other student veterans, he hopes to encourage them to also take advantage of the opportunities available to them.
“I would strongly encourage them to take full advantage of the Veteran Services offered at the university – they're specifically designed to support your transition and ensure your success,” he said.
O’Rourke also hopes veterans will take the time to connect with others on campus like them to share experiences and rely on one another when in need of additional help.
“We share common experiences and challenges, and building those connections can not only make the transition smoother but also create a more enjoyable and supportive college experience,” he said.
The Office of Military & Veteran Services on campus works to make sure student veterans access the military education benefits available to them, as well as provide support in transitioning to college life and earning their degree. The office also hosts an active student veteran club that allows student veterans to connect with other veterans, plan events to promote veteran resources, and aid in the adjustment to college life.
To learn more about the Office of Military & Veteran Services at AIɫɫ, visit shawnee.edu/veterans.