In this powerful episode of Service to School Stories, host Whitney Cason sits down with Army veteran Nate Tiegs and admissions expert Nick Fritz for an honest, deeply human conversation about what it really takes for veterans to transition into higher education.

Nate opens up about the parts of his journey that rarely make it into polished application essays — facing homelessness, battling bureaucracy, and learning to advocate for himself. His story is raw, real, and a reminder that resilience isn’t theoretical for veterans; it’s lived. Nick brings the admissions perspective, breaking down what colleges actually look for in veteran applicants, why vulnerability matters, and how maturity and self-awareness can become your strongest assets in a holistic review process.

Together, Nate and Nick reveal how authenticity, courage, and a willingness to tell your full story can transform the admissions experience — and why veterans are uniquely prepared to succeed in the classroom and beyond. This episode is a must-listen for any veteran preparing to apply to college, anyone supporting veterans through the transition, or anyone who needs a reminder that your story has power.

00:00 Navigating the Transition from Military to Civilian Life

02:42 The Role of Education in Personal Growth

05:45 Overcoming Bureaucratic Challenges in Admissions

08:26 The Importance of Holistic Admissions Processes

11:03 Writing Essays: Sharing Difficult Experiences

13:56 Demonstrating Resilience Through Personal Narratives

16:47 The Power of Authenticity in Admissions Essays

19:42 Advice for Veterans on Writing Their Stories

22:32 Final Thoughts on the Admissions Journey

Additional resources: 

Amherst College Admissions