3rd & Goal Peer-to-Peer Sponsor Program: A Semester of Connection and Impact at The Ohio State University

As part of Operation Education, the 3rd & Goal Foundation is proud to support student veterans through the 3rd & Goal Peer-to-Peer Sponsor Program at The Ohio State University. This program directly reflects our mission to make a difference in the lives of veterans in need, and this fall semester’s update highlights the powerful impact our 3rd & Goal Peer Sponsors are making on campus every day.

Building Strong Transitions for Student Veterans

During the fall semester, seven dedicated Peer Sponsors served military-connected students across campus. Their role is rooted in one goal, ensuring that new student veterans do not navigate the transition to college alone.

This year, the program piloted a new approach to communication. Instead of relying solely on email, one Peer Sponsor utilized a weekly text-message group for check-ins. The result was remarkable: three times as many students reached out for assistance, reinforcing the importance of meeting students where they are.

Throughout the semester, Peer Sponsors connected with 94 assigned new student veterans, supporting them from orientation through academic success. In addition, each Peer Sponsor spent one hour per week in the campus Veterans Lounge, strengthening visibility, accessibility, and community.

Impact by the Numbers

The reach of this program is best illustrated through its impact:

• 432 phone calls

• 242 in-person drop-ins

• 3 email inquiries, in addition to consistent weekly outreach

Based on initial intake, Peer Sponsors assisted with:

• 438 transition and GI Bill certification issues

• 24 education benefit questions

• 46 Veterans Success on Campus counselor-related inquiries

• 50 academic advising conversations

• 3 mental and physical health referrals

• 18 admissions inquiries

• 98+ additional transition-related requests

Each of these interactions represents a moment where a student veteran felt heard, supported, and guided.

When Support Truly Matters

One call in December stood out to the team. A Peer Sponsor answered a phone call from a distressed individual in an unsafe situation. While keeping the individual calm and on the line, the Peer coordinated with emergency services to reach the person’s location. This moment exemplifies the professionalism, compassion, and preparedness of the Peer Sponsors. We are incredibly proud of that Peer for handling such a critical situation with care and composure.

Voices from the Program

The heart of the Peer-to-Peer Sponsor Program is found in the stories shared by those who work so hard to make a difference.

One Peer Sponsor shared a powerful story of connection and belonging: “One moment that stands out is when I helped a new student veteran who felt lost and didn’t know where to start. I walked him through each step, confirmed details regarding his Post-9/11 GI Bill, and introduced him to the Veterans Lounge and campus resources. By midterms, he told me he finally felt like he belonged at Ohio State and wasn’t ‘on his own’ anymore. Seeing that confidence grow showed me the real impact of my role.”

Another Peer Sponsor highlighted the importance of lived experience: “This semester, I worked with many military-connected students overwhelmed by GI Bill paperwork, residency rules, and how disability ratings affect benefits. Since I recently went through the same process, I was able to share my experience, explain their options, and connect them with the right campus and VA contacts. In some cases, students were ready to give up, but together we found support like Chapter 31 Veterans Readiness and Employment. Turning what I learned the hard way into guidance for others has helped student veterans feel less alone and more confident about staying in school.”

Looking Ahead

These stories and outcomes reinforce why the 3rd & Goal Peer-to-Peer Sponsor Program matters. Through connection, shared experience, and consistent support, student veterans are finding their footing, building confidence, and discovering a true sense of belonging at Ohio State.

Because of our supporters and partners, including The Ohio State University, we are proud to continue investing in programs that create real, lasting impact for veterans and military-connected students. This semester is just one example of how community, compassion, and commitment can change lives.

*All program data and student interaction metrics included in this update were provided by The Ohio State University Military and Veterans Services Office.