National Guard educator flight gives NDSU staff insight into student experience

The North Dakota Army National Guard’s annual educator flight aboard a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter on June 24 included three North Dakota State University representatives. The immersive experience offered a firsthand look at the training and responsibilities of military service members, many of whom are also NDSU students or alumni.

The group traveled from Fargo to Camp Grafton, where they participated in a series of hands-on activities designed to simulate the training and operations of the North Dakota Army National Guard. Activities included a weapons simulation, a ride on a bridge-building boat and a 40-foot rappel tower descent. Participants also shared a traditional military lunch of Meals Ready-to-Eat and engaged in conversations with state military leaders.

“This experience was truly incredible. It offered a rare opportunity to step into the world of our military students and gain a deeper understanding of their journey,” said Cory Schlack, senior admission counselor. “I learned that joining the National Guard doesn’t mean choosing between service and education. Students can choose to do both. These paths don’t compete; they complement and strengthen each other.”

The event aimed to deepen institutional understanding of the unique challenges and commitments faced by military-affiliated students, while also highlighting the educational benefits available to service members. Through the National Guard, students can receive full tuition assistance, making higher education in fields such as engineering, health and science more accessible and affordable.

“NDSU is proud to be a military-friendly institution,” said Sarah Crary, assistant director of online programs in the NDSU Office of Teaching and Learning. “This experience gave us a deeper appreciation for the dedication and discipline our military students bring to the classroom. It also opened the door to new opportunities for collaboration and support.”

The educator flight is part of the National Guard’s broader effort to build stronger partnerships with educational institutions across the state. By fostering these connections, the National Guard hopes to enhance recruitment efforts and ensure that service members are well-supported in their academic and professional journeys.

NDSU demonstrates its commitment to being military-friendly by actively developing educational pathways that recognize and value the extensive learning and training that military service members bring to higher education. The university is currently exploring credit for prior learning opportunities that would allow military personnel to earn academic credit for their military training and experience, helping to streamline their transition to civilian academic life and reducing the time and cost required to complete their degree programs.

NDSU continues to explore ways to better serve its military-affiliated students, both on campus and online, through flexible learning options, dedicated support services and a commitment to recognizing the value of military experience in higher education.