100% Disabled Vet using GI Bill/VR&E for Art School (SF area?) Need Advice
100% disabled vet using GI Bill/VR&E for art school in SF? Advice?
Hey everyone,
I’m a 100% disabled veteran and could really use some guidance from people who’ve been in a similar position.
I used to work in the medical field, but physically I’m not in a place where I can do that anymore. My back is pretty messed up, and I don’t know if I can handle being on my feet all day consistently. Because of that, I’m trying to pivot into something more sustainable for me.
I have both VR&E and GI Bill available, and I’m considering going back to school for something creative—possibly an art degree. Part of this is for a career path, but also honestly for my mental health. I need something I can engage in that isn’t physically demanding or overly technical.
I’ve been looking into possibly going to school in the San Francisco area (for the BAH and opportunities), even if it means living 1–2 hours away and commuting or doing hybrid classes.
A few questions I’m hoping people can help with:
- Has anyone here used GI Bill or VR&E for an art or creative degree?
- Any experience with schools in/around San Francisco (especially avoiding predatory programs)?
- Is it realistic to rely on hybrid classes and still get full BAH?
- Are there better locations/programs I should consider that still offer strong BAH but more flexibility?
- Any advice for getting back into school after being out for years (especially with physical limitations)?
I’m not trying to waste my benefits—I just want to use them in a way that fits my current reality and gives me some direction again.
Appreciate any insight 🙏