By Lindley Lund
K‑State News and Communications Services
When U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Hannah Brouwer was transitioning to Fort Riley from Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, she faced a common military challenge: continuing her education while serving on active duty.
Her search for flexibility led her to Kansas State University, which was recently recognized as a Top Ten Military Friendly School and a Top Ten Military Spouse Friendly School by Military Friendly.
“While stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, I found it difficult to locate a pre-health professions program that aligned with my demanding schedule,” said Brouwer, who enlisted in the U.S. Army as a health care specialist in 2016. “K-State’s wide selection of online degrees, particularly those offering science courses in a flexible format, made the decision to transfer effortless.”
For Brouwer, the university’s support went beyond flexible course offerings. During her rotation to South Korea in 2020, she navigated significant time zone differences to maintain her studies. In 2021, a sudden deployment to Miami for COVID-19 vaccination efforts forced her to drop several courses with just two weeks’ notice.
“From taking exams in the middle of a desert to determining how to ship a chemistry kit overseas, the challenges persisted,” Brouwer said. “But each one strengthened my resilience, adaptability and commitment to achieving my academic goals.”
Dominic Barnes, military student services coordinator at K-State, played a crucial role in Brouwer’s academic journey.
“Dominic was instrumental not only in facilitating my transition but also in supporting my academic success throughout my time at K-State,” Brouwer said. “As a veteran himself, he has understood the unique professional and personal challenges I’ve encountered, offering mentorship, encouragement and guidance every step of the way.”
Barnes represents K-State’s commitment to its military-affiliated students, Kansas’ largest population.
“It is a privilege to work with students like Hannah,” Barnes said. “Her dedication to both her military service and academic goals exemplifies the best qualities of our military-affiliated students.”
Brouwer particularly appreciated how K-State faculty accommodated her unique circumstances, including allowing her to participate via Zoom in a hybrid course designed for on-campus students.
“Every professor I’ve had has shown genuine concern for student success and made accommodations when needed, always treating me as an individual with unique responsibilities and goals,” Brouwer said.
Now completing dual degrees while still on active duty, Brouwer plans to apply to physician assistant programs after graduation. Her journey illustrates why K-State continues to earn prestigious military-friendly designations, the latest of which will be featured in the upcoming issue of GIJOBS Magazine.
“Before joining the military, I never imagined graduate school would be a possibility for me. Today, I am proud to say I underestimated my potential,” Brouwer said.
K-State’s military support initiatives include the Army ROTC and Air Force ROTC programs, Military-Affiliated Resource Centers on both the Manhattan and Salina campuses, dedicated Veterans Affairs educational benefits support, and specialized offices at Fort Riley and Fort Leavenworth.
“My time at Kansas State University has made me a stronger soldier and a better leader, and it has prepared me for future success both within and beyond the military,” Brouwer said. “When the student’s needs fall outside the norm, the staff goes above and beyond to meet them.”
Learn more about K-State’s military-affiliated programs and services on the military and families website.
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