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Program Benefits

Naval NCOs work on dive project with NASA research team

Students who participate in SERVE can expect to receive benefits which include mentorship, participation in naval research projects, and workforce placement amongst several other benefits.

Undergraduate Students

Undergraduate students participating in SERVE can expect the following benefits:

  • Participation in 10-week summer research experiences at UT, UNC Charlotte, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the Navy Research Lab, or industry partner companies that are focused on the priorities of the US Navy
  • Access to a structured mentorship involving faculty, naval researchers, and other veterans to guide research, build community, and provide a support system.
  • Exposure to a wide array of employers who serve naval needs as well as assistance with finding employment program partners
  • STEM-focused academic advising

Graduate Students

Graduate students participating in SERVE can expect the following benefits:

  • The opportunity to apply for a select number of competitive graduate research assistantship (GRA) positions (only available until filled). GRA positions come with a tuition waiver, health insurance, and a stipend.
  • Opportunities to apply for scholarship funding
  • Access to a structured mentorship involving faculty, naval researchers, and other veterans to guide research, build community, and provide a support system.
  • Participation in research projects relevant to US Navy priorities and veteran STEM education
  • Exposure to a wide array of employers who serve naval needs as well as assistance with finding post-graduation employment with program partners

Mentorship

To support student success, SERVE works with the Veteran Resource Centers at UT and UNC Charlotte to create a mentoring network for veteran students. Students will be both mentors and mentees. Mentors include veteran faculty members, professional veterans external to the universities, and enrolled veteran graduate and undergraduate students. Learn more about the SERVE Mentor Program. 

Mentoring is closely aligned with research teams that are comprised of veterans, active officers, and ROTC cadets.

Graduate and Workforce Placement

SERVE collaborates with the Office of Naval Research Naval STEM workforce program, titled “Engaging Military Veterans to Increase STEM Enrollment and Degrees Awarded,” from UNC Charlotte, which has already built several strong relationships.

Students in the SERVE program at UT can expect networking opportunities throughout their time at UT as well as assistance finding employment upon graduation.