As part of the Veterans Bachelor of Science in Nursing (VBSN) pathway’s ongoing commitment to Davenport University’s veteran students, a military simulation will be offered to faculty and staff at the Great Lakes Bay Region campus in Midland on Friday, Oct. 27.

“Intended to provide an educational insight into the lives of military students, this experiential learning opportunity is highly recommended for any faculty or staff members who may have contact with these students,” said Jessica Fasburg, a College of Health Professions staff member. ”The simulation will provide an eye-opening experience for participants that will foster an inclusive university campus.”

While the full impact of a military experience cannot be represented in a single simulation, participants will gain a sense of what it is like to be a service member juggling various responsibilities while pursuing a college degree.

The 90-minute simulation is comprised of 10 stations, each designed to highlight a different experience commonly reported by returning veterans in a university setting. Participants will be assigned a branch of the military and placed into a “boot camp” staffed by uniformed military personnel. Participants will then read and discuss actual experiences cited by Davenport’s veteran students.

Participants will examine common misconceptions about returning veterans, balanced with positive facts about service members. A simulated Veterans Affairs office will allow participants to feel the frustration of obtaining their GI benefits.

“These hands-on activities bring to life the experience of returning veterans in the classroom and in their personal lives, showcasing the personal strength required to effectively balance school, work and family,” Fasburg said.

At the conclusion of the simulation, participants will graduate and receive a certificate of completion, as well as training information for future use.

Faculty and staff member can register through EmpowerU. Three sessions will be offered at 1 p.m., 1:45 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27 in Midland at the Great Lakes Bay Region campus.