Burton Washington loves to help other students see and meet their potential – that might be why he’s enjoying his time as the president of the Harold Washington College Student Veterans Association as well as his work study job in the Veterans Services Center.

Burton spent eight years in the U.S. Navy, most recently stationed at Naval Air Station Point Mugu in California. While he was there, he attended the University of La Verne, working his way toward a Bachelor’s in Business Administration. When he moved back to Chicago before he could complete his degree, he found that City Colleges would be the best way for him to be able to continue to take the classes that would help him reach his goal. It has also allowed him to become part of a community of other veterans who are continuing their education.

Through the Veterans Services Center and the Student Veterans Association, Burton has been able to help with events, volunteer, help other student veterans register for classes, and motivate and support his peers.

“I’m always there, always helping other vets. Whatever I learn, I pass it on.”

Burton gets the same support from faculty and staff at Harold Washington College, especially from Marcus Williams, the college’s veterans services specialist.

“Marcus is a great role model for veterans – he can relate to us, he’s in our corner. I would encourage other veterans to use him as a resource and get involved with us on campus.”

By the summer of 2019, Burton will have enough credits transferred to the University of La Verne to earn his bachelor’s degree, and is currently looking into further education and careers in the healthcare field.