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This summer, a cohort of military veterans participated in a rigorous, weeklong academic boot camp from July 11 to 18, at Loyola University Chicago designed to prepare them for college-level coursework, whether they ultimately enroll at Loyola or another institution. Hosting the program is the latest step the University has taken to increase support for student veterans. The program was hosted in partnership with Warrior-Scholar Project (WSP), an organization helping veterans transition from military service to higher education.
Each year, more than 115,000 veterans transition out of the military, with many turning to higher education as a pathway to new careers. Beyond academics, the boot camp helps participants build community, foster personal growth, and find a renewed sense of purpose.
“Those who have served our nation bring extraordinary leadership, resilience, and determination to the classroom,” said Loyola President Mark C. Reed. “Loyola is pleased to partner with Warrior-Scholar Project to help veterans build on those strengths as they pursue knowledge, purpose, and lives of service in higher education and beyond.”
Over the course of the week, enlisted veterans from across the country completed more than 75 academic hours, simulating a typical college “finals week” to sharpen their academic skills in a condensed timeframe.
Moises Funtila, who served in the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marines, and U.S. Air Force, described how boot camp, while challenging, affirmed his path as he prepares to transfer to a four-year university.
“While the heavy workload and fast pace pushed me to my limits, it proved exactly what I am capable of achieving,” Funtila said. “Navigating these intense academic demands has given me the confidence and practical study habits to transition smoothly into university research and ultimately succeed in the rigorous environment of medical school.”
Throughout the boot camp’s STEM-focused program, participants learned from Loyola faculty in the College of Arts and Sciences, worked closely with research leads, and received guidance from student veteran mentors who have successfully navigated the transition to college.
The program also introduced participants to campus resources and the structure of a university learning environment, reinforcing both academic and social readiness.
“Partnering with Warrior-Scholar Project allows student veterans to experience cura personalis in real-time while they are with us for the week, seeing how veterans are supported by Loyola,” said Alex Pirila, director of Military Veteran Student Services.
“Navigating these intense academic demands has given me the confidence and practical study habits to transition smoothly into university research and ultimately succeed in the rigorous environment of medical school.”
— Moises Funtila, Warrior-Scholar Project participant, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marines, and U.S. Air Force veteran
WSP outcomes demonstrate the program’s impact across its national network: More than 80% of alumni have completed or are on track to complete a college degree. 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 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. Loyola University Chicago 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.
The program is provided at no cost to participants through support from Loyola and investments from foundations, corporations, and individual donors.
