University presents a unique opportunity for lifelong learning.

The language may differ from that used whilst your served, and the skill sets may appear quite foreign. But even though there might seem to be little crossover, many of the skills learnt in defence can be used at university. Translating the skills you developed to those used at University will allow you to utilise what you have already been using throughout your career.

A great working example of this can be seen with ‘reflections’. Reflections are a critical skill at university used all throughout your studies. Kolb’s Learning Cycle argues that reflection is critical to the learning process.

For many student veterans this is initially met with some resistance as it’s a very subjective process. But at its core, a reflection is just an After Action Review (AAR) conducted on one’s own personal experience.

Rather than learning a new skill, finding ways to translate old ones cannot only save time, but reduce concerns associated with study.

A good idea is to develop your own list of translations, write them down in a book, as a note on your phone. This will allow for quick reference and refinement of the skills over time. This will also provide the opportunity to share what works for you with others. This can also help with refinement as you will be able to receive feedback, and often teaching someone else can reinforce the learning for yourself.

Reflective learning boosts critical thinking, analysing experiences for better future performance. Reflection, which is widely supported and researched in education, aims for deeper learning by asking you to scrutinise events, activities, or learning experiences.

Keeping a Learning Journal helps you to document your reflections, identify patterns, and makes it a habit that is embedded into your study rhythm.