North Central College named #7 Best College for Veterans

North Central College was named #7 Best College for Veterans among schools in the Midwest Region by U.S. News & World Report in 2025.  North Central fully participates in both the Post 9/11 GI Bill®* and Yellow Ribbon veteran benefit programs.  Student veterans find a welcoming and supportive community at North Central College. 

Below,  Juan Espinoza '27 (Army) shares a reflection on his experience as a student veteran at North Central.

As a student veteran, one of the biggest transitions to college is walking into a classroom and wondering if you’ll fit in. Being older than most students can feel intimidating, and that was my experience before coming to North Central College. I earned my associate degree at a community college, and my experience there didn't compare to the sense of belonging I’ve found at NCC. From my first day here, North Central felt like home. As a junior and president of the Student Veterans Alliance, I’ve seen how the College creates real community and support for student veterans. We currently have about 30 student veterans on campus, and we truly look out for one another. Being a parent adds another layer to my student experience. My fourteen-year-old son, Giovanni, spends time on campus with me, has sat in on lectures, and even participated in the coin toss at the Salute to Service football game for our National Champions two years in a row. Having a campus that understands military-connected students and their families has meant everything to me.

        Juan Espinoza '27 | NC Student Veterans Alliance (SVA) President

Picture (L-R):
SVA Officers: Juan Espinoza '27 (Army), Starry Her '28 (Navy), Joe Perusich (Marines)

Learn more about Veteran Services at NC: Visit www.northcentralcollege.edu/admissions/veterans
Questions? Contact Julie Carballo, Assistant Dean of Students for First-Generation & Military-Affiliated Student Initiatives, at jmcarballo@noctrl.edu.