This summer, a cohort of military veterans will participate in a rigorous academic boot camp at the College of Charleston designed to prepare them for college-level coursework. Hosted in partnership with Warrior-Scholar Project (WSP), the collaboration marks the latest step the college has taken to increase support for student veterans. The business boot camp will run from July 11-18 and bring together enlisted veterans from across the country.
Over the course of the week, participants complete more than 75 academic hours, simulating a typical college “finals week” and challenging them to sharpen their academic skills in a condensed timeframe. The experience helps veterans build confidence and prepare for the transition from military careers to higher education.
“This partnership with Warrior-Scholar Project signals a major step forward in how the College of Charleston supports those who served,” says Jessica Wilkes, an Air Force veteran and director of Veteran and Military Services at the College.
Wilkes said it’s important to meet veterans where they are and give them the specialized momentum they need to conquer the transition to civilian academia. “Hosting this program shows that we are actively listening to the needs of our student veterans, removing barriers to their success and ensuring they have a first-rate platform to excel both in the classroom and within the business community,” she added.
Each year, more than 115,000 veterans transition out of the military, many turning to higher education as a pathway to new careers. Beyond academics, the WSP boot camp helps participants build community, foster personal growth, and find a renewed sense of purpose.
During the business boot camp, participants learn from College of Charleston faculty, work closely with tutors, and receive guidance from student veteran mentors who have successfully navigated the transition to college. The program also introduces participants to campus resources and the structure of a university learning environment, reinforcing both academic and social readiness.
“The magic of Warrior-Scholar Project happens when enlisted veterans realize they belong in these academic spaces and can succeed there. Our programming helps participants tap into their identities as both veterans and students, building the confidence, community, and skills they need to thrive not only in the classroom, but as civically engaged leaders. The College of Charleston shares our commitment to helping veterans unlock their full potential, and we’re grateful to work with them to bring this transformative program to the community,” said WSP CEO Ryan Pavel.
Wilkes agreed that programs like WSP are vital because they translate a veteran's military discipline into academic excellence. “They don't just teach business or humanities; they teach veterans how to navigate the cultural shift from the military to the classroom, turning potential transition anxiety into academic confidence,” she said.
WSP outcomes demonstrate the program’s impact: More than 80% of alumni have completed or are on track to complete a college degree, compared to 47% of veterans using the Post-9/11 GI Bill. In 2025, 60% of WSP participants were first-generation college students, reflecting the program’s reach among those navigating higher education for the first time.
The program is provided at no cost to participants through support from the College of Charleston and investments from foundations, corporations, and individual donors.