Matthew Rich

sophomore, political science
United States Army, 2003-2010
Falkville, AL

By University Communications and Marketing

How do you define yourself?

“I am a veteran, and I am a pacifist.”

As the Student Veterans Service Club’s president, what is your mission?

“My mission is to help other veterans understand that even after all the heartache, there is someone else who knows it and understands it. And, that there are people who care and want to help.

“I believe that with education comes understanding, which leads to acceptance. Ignorance creates war. Education leads society to an enlightened area of peace.”

What is one of the biggest challenges for veterans enrolling into college?

“The culture shock. It’s really hard to relate to people after combat.