Justin Cole - From Space Systems Operations to MIT
Tell us about yourself, Justin!
Hometown: Westborough, Massachusetts
What is your anticipated school and intended major? Course 1-12, Climate System Science and Engineering at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Class of 2028
What did you do in the military? 1C6X1 - Space Systems Operations
Fun fact about yourself? If we're friends, I'll probably cook for you at some point.
What was your proudest accomplishment in the military? My proudest accomplishment was graduating my first class of GPS satellite operators as a new instructor.
What was the biggest benefit to using Service to School throughout the application process? Service to School helped me in two ways. First, it connected me with the mentors and experts I needed to succeed. Second, through the VetLink Addendum, it gave me a way to communicate my military experience to MIT admissions.
What are you most excited about in regards to starting school? I'm excited to immerse in the MIT community and dive into academic research. Of all the things I consider impressive about MIT, I most admire its culture. The purposefulness, camaraderie, and sense of humor I've seen in students, faculty, and alumni reminds me of the culture I experienced in the service.
What are your goals post-graduation? I'm not sure yet. Course 1-12 is brand-new, so I'll have to see what opportunities arise as I progress. Regardless, I'm optimistic.
Justin’s advice for veterans who are applying to college:
See if you can attend a Warrior-Scholar Project boot camp at the school you're interested in! Also, don't be afraid to reach out to admissions if you have application questions.
The peer-to-peer mentorship I received through Service to School helped me light the path I hoped to walk. My mentor's guidance informed how I approached everything from my application to on-campus housing. Her experience and advice smoothed the learning curve substantially. I highly recommend other veterans to connect with a mentor through Service to School.
Congrats again Justin on your acceptance to MIT!
