Continue Your Story | Columbia University School of General Studies

Matt's Story

Growing up in Central Florida, Matt spent most of his free time with the Boy Scouts, learning leadership skills that would eventually guide him towards joining the U.S. Army. He enlisted after a brief stint in community college and climbed the ranks serving in combat and non-combat zones around the world. After ten years of service, Matt was considering a transition back into civilian life. He connected with a Columbia School of General Studies (GS) alum, who invited him to tour the campus and attend Columbia’s Military Ball. He was initially unsure if the Ivy League was right for him, but the moment he arrived on campus he knew it was where he belonged. Since that fateful visit, Matt has become a leader and mentor for the Military Veterans of Columbia University (MilVets)—the largest student veteran organization in the Ivy League.

Joined the US Army at age 19
Elected President of Columbia University's MilVets organization
Veteran peer mentor for Columbia's student veteran community
Political Science Major

Did You Know?

Nearly 500 enrolled GS students served in the U.S. or foreign military as of Fall 2024
Nearly 500 enrolled GS students served in the U.S. or foreign military as of Fall 2024
Nearly 500 enrolled GS students served in the U.S. or foreign military as of Fall 2024
Over 230 GS veteran students have received financial aid benefits through the Yellow Ribbon Program
Over 230 GS veteran students have received financial aid benefits through the Yellow Ribbon Program
Over 230 GS veteran students have received financial aid benefits through the Yellow Ribbon Program
An entire day during Orientation Week is dedicated to newly-enrolled military veterans
An entire day during Orientation Week is dedicated to newly-enrolled military veterans
An entire day during Orientation Week is dedicated to newly-enrolled military veterans
MilVets, formed in 2002 by a group of GS students, is the largest student veterans organization in the Ivy League
MilVets, formed in 2002 by a group of GS students, is the largest student veterans organization in the Ivy League
MilVets, formed in 2002 by a group of GS students, is the largest student veterans organization in the Ivy League

Learn More About Our Students

GS student Michelle
Michelle

Performer

GS student Ajay
Ajay

Entrepreneur

Lori
Lori

Community College Transfer

Sam First-Generation College Grad
Sam

First-Generation College Grad

Sam Veteran
Sam
Sam

Marine Corps Veteran

Upcoming Events

We hold information sessions about attending GS throughout the year, both on- and off-campus. Let us know you’re coming to see us by registering for one of the following events.

Wednesday, June 10, 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Friday, June 12, 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Wednesday, June 24, 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Low Library at Columbia University

Application Deadlines

There are many important dates to remember. Sign up to request more information and we’ll also send you timely reminders.

Fall Admission
Application Open: December 1
Priority Early Action Deadline: January 15
Early Action Deadline: March 1
Regular Decision Deadline: May 15

Spring Admission
Application Open: August 1
Priority Early Action Deadline: September 1
Early Action Deadline: October 1
Regular Decision Deadline: November 1

Admissions Decisions
Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis (typically six to eight weeks after receiving a complete application).

Students walking on the Columbia campus
We have tailored our support services to meet the specific needs of non-traditional students. From veteran resources and academic advising, to career guidance and support for international students, you’ll find a wide variety of key support services at Columbia GS.
Students talking on campus
Columbia University campus
GS Student Life encourages students to become involved in programs and activities that enhance their educational experience and personal growth. A wide range of student organizations include the General Studies Student Council, sports teams, our military veterans group, MilVets, and more.

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