VETERAN AGGIE LEADERS FOR OUTREACH, RESEARCH & RESOURCES
Veteran Aggie Leaders for Outreach, Research, & Resources (VALOR2) is a peer led outreach program that engages student veterans to assess and align critical resource needs to facilitate academic, financial, personal, and career success during the transitions to, through, and beyond Texas A&M.
OUR MISSION
The mission of VALOR2 is to bridge the gap between Aggie Veterans and their resource providers to empower open communication, share knowledge, and cultivate a supportive community.
CURRENT PROJECTS
TAKE OUR CURRENT SURVEY!!!
HOW WE ENGAGE
Periodically, we will send surveys to the military student population to gather pertinent information to help drive programming and topics for deeper conversation through other engagement opportunities. These are typically issued through Qualtrics, and participation remains anonymous. We deeply appreciate military students' time and effort in responding.
Our interviews consist of open-ended questions focused on a particular topic or two to gauge opinions on the topic at hand. These will generally take place either in person at random locations across campus or over the phone. Feedback received is used collectively and remains anonymous.
Round Table Talks are open to 15 participants and will focus on a particular topic. These are informal, open forum discussions where military students can examine and present feedback surrounding the topic that relate to their personal experiences at TAMU.
WHO WE ARE
We are fellow students seeking feedback, opportunities, and input on how Texas A&M can continue to better serve our military students. If you see us in the halls or out and about and have a thought, stop and let us know!
Service: Marine Corps
Major: International Affairs
My name is Jesse, and I’m a graduate student at the Bush School of Government and Public Service. Through VALOR2, I aim to provide outstanding support and care for our student veterans. I believe that even small details can make a big difference, so I focus on identifying the unique needs of our veterans—no matter how small—and working with our resource providers to bring about positive change. If you need any assistance, feel free to find me at the VRSC.
Service: Marine Corps
Major: Engineering
Howdy! I’m Mitchell Anderson! I’m a student vet at Texas A&M, working toward an engineering degree after seven years in the Marine Corps. I was a Sergeant and Combat Engineer, and I had the chance to lead teams, handle logistics, and train future Marine officers as the chief instructor at The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia. Now, I’m putting that same energy and leadership into my studies and work with VALOR2, helping other student vets settle into college life. When I’m not on campus, I’m a proud dad of three, keeping up with family life and always ready to support strong, connected communities.
Service: Army
Major: Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management
Hey there! I’m Nicolas Ciolli, originally from Missouri. I spent 10 years in the Army, starting with the 75th Ranger Regiment and wrapping up my service in the Texas National Guard. I left as a Staff Sergeant after four deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Egypt. After the military, I went to culinary school and worked my way up to Executive Chef before deciding to switch gears and dive into wildlife. Now, I’m a second-year Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management student, set to graduate in Spring ’26!
Service: Marine Corps
Major: Electrical Systems Engineering Technology
Hi, I’m Charles! I served in the Marines and then spent 12 years in the oil and gas industry before deciding to head back to school. I started with an associate degree in computer science from Lone Star College, and now I’m here at Texas A&M working toward an engineering degree. Supporting fellow vets is something I’m passionate about, so you’ll often find me at the VRSC or involved with Student Veterans of America, doing my best to make a difference for our community here at A&M.
Army Dependent
Major: Biomedical Sciences
Howdy! My name is Bella Perez, and I am a junior majoring in Biomedical Sciences (BIMS), hoping to become a pediatrician one day! My dad is currently in the Army, and I have been a military brat all my life! Serving the military community has always been something close to my heart, and I am truly grateful to do that while continuing my pre-med studies here at A&M. I love being an Aggie and having the opportunity to connect with other military veterans and dependents alike to make their time here in Aggieland a great one!