JANUARY 16, 2025 — This semester, UTSA is launching a new Academic Introduction & Strategies (AIS) course specifically tailored for veteran students in their first year in college. Offered through UTSA’s University College, the course aims to provide veterans with the support and community they need to thrive academically and socially as they transition to college life.
AIS is a key component of the university’s First-Year Experience, designed to help first-year students successfully navigate the challenges of college. In this course, students explore academic majors, engage in career planning and develop the skills necessary for academic success. Historically required for all first-time freshmen at UTSA with fewer than 30 credit hours, the new AIS course for veterans will offer a unique environment tailored to the needs of this special population.
The decision to create this dedicated section comes in response to feedback from current veteran students, who expressed challenges relating to younger, traditional students in standard AIS classes.
"Veteran students often find themselves in a different stage of life, which can make it difficult to connect with peers who are just beginning their college journey," said Brian Rendell, University College’s senior director of academic credentialing, leadership development and marketable skills. Rendell, a retired Air Force colonel with 24 years of service, will be teaching the course. His background and experience in leadership development will play a pivotal role in guiding veteran students through their academic pursuits.
“We’re always trying to find ways to increase student success. In this case, our goal is to ensure that veterans feel even more connected to the university and have the resources to succeed academically," said Rendell. "This new AIS course will offer a classroom environment where veteran students can learn how to capitalize on their military experiences and connect with others who share similar backgrounds and life aspirations."
Enrollment in Rendell’s class is filling quickly, underscoring the demand for veteran-centered academic support and the importance of creating spaces where military-connected students can thrive.
The Academic Introduction & Strategies program is part of UTSA’s University College, which is also home to Air Force and Army ROTC programs, dual credit and writing programs, and offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Multidisciplinary Studies. University College equips students to flourish in today’s increasingly complex world by fostering leadership, critical thinking, communication and connections, self-exploration and interdisciplinary learning.
UTSA is known for its commitment to supporting military-affiliated students, which make up nearly 16% of the student population. The university has earned numerous accolades for being military friendly, including being ranked No. 53 out of 304 institutions in Military Times 2024 Best for Vets: Colleges list
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Students, faculty and staff are invited to join UTSA's delegation at the annual César E. Chávez March for Justice in downtown San Antonio. Free transportation will be provided from the Main and Downtown Campuses, and all university community participants will receive a complimentary commemorative t-shirt (while supplies last)
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