A little-hidden gem on the Colorado Mesa University (CMU) campus is the Student Veterans Lounge. It is located in Houston Hall room 110A, in the south side of the building. Tucked away in its own little corner, most students may be unaware of its existence. It is also the location of the Veteran Model Display which has models of the different vehicles, ships, planes from the World War I era to the present day. It is definitely a must see!

So, why should a student hangout in the Veterans Lounge? “The Veterans Lounge is a wonderful place for veterans and students to relax, drink coffee, and network. The lounge is open for any student who wants to come in and take a break from their busy college life. The benefits for non-veteran students is being able to interact with veterans and learn who they are. This is extremely important to have non-veterans and veterans interact with one another to build long-lasting relationships throughout their college career and in life,” said Braydon Gear, Student Veterans Association member.

You can also make some life long friends as well. You have the opportunity to learn first hand what these veterans went through as they fought for our freedom. They hold a place in our history and their stories can live on through us too! We can learn so much more through their lives and experiences than what we hear on the news or read in textbooks. So why not make a new friend, have some good conversation and relax with our fellow student veterans!

Image courtesy of Susan Moore | The Criterion