From Gareth Ripol, Team Leader, University of New Mexico: “Colin took it upon himself to push for free veteran mental healthcare at the University of New Mexico and has advocated to get a trauma counselor hired at the Veterans Military Resource Center at UNM. Colin also lists available scholarships for veterans outside the UNM database as a resource for student veterans.”

From Colin Bulman: “My work as a Peer Advisor has improved the lives of many military-affiliated students here at the University of New Mexico. I have aided students who need assistance navigating state resources like applications for SNAP, Medicaid, low-income Utility Assistance, and I help run the University of New Mexico Veteran and Military Resource Center’s New Student Orientation. This role allows me to assist military-affiliated students in their understanding of their earned/given benefits. I make sure that whenever a student, even if they do not fall under my peer list, receives prompt and efficient coordination of care and resources pertinent to their overall success. I am working on forming and implementing a program that would help the transition and integration process from the military to the college campus setting.

My favorite part of being a Peer Advisor is learning how to apply my skills from public health into my approaches in the PAVE program and beyond. I know what it is like and how it feels not to have someone who I can contact to help me navigate life and college, and I know how stressful that can be. I simply enjoy being able to help my peers and anyone who needs it.”