From Gerardo Ruiz, Veteran Services Coordinator, Johnson County Community College: “Lauren is a genuinely caring person who deeply cares about the program, its mission, and the well-being of her PAVE peers. Throughout the year, she has been a consistent and active participant in our events, always encouraging others to get involved and stay engaged. Her commitment is evident in how she manages her PAVE group; she schedules time to meet with them and prepares thoughtful questions in advance to ensure she understands their needs and gets to know them better.
Beyond her interpersonal skills, Lauren has demonstrated exceptional leadership by being present, organized, and proactive in seeking out resources, even while serving in the Air National Guard and having recently been called to active duty. She has made arrangements to ensure her cohort continues to receive the support they need to be successful. Lauren’s ability to balance her military service, academics, and her PAVE responsibilities speaks volumes about her character, her work ethic, and her commitment to the PAVE program.”
From Lauren Sarver: “I feel that my work as a Peer Advisor is improving the college experience for my fellow student veterans by being that missing puzzle piece that truly unpacks their individualized issues and connecting them with the correct resources and benefits. Having someone acting as a central hub who invests in solving their issues, whether it be benefits, academic, or personal, holds such value during this time of transition. I love being that person for them!
My favorite part about being a Peer Advisor is connecting with veterans and the learning experience that follows. Whether it’s over a cup of coffee, or on a phone call with an online student currently on military orders, these conversations have had a profound effect on both how I continue as a Peer Advisor, but also how I advocate for the military patients I assist who are currently in the Military Health Network. I would have never guessed this position would turn into such a wonderful learning experience!”