Boots to Books: Veteran Resource Center Student Highlights

From Service to Science – A Veteran’s Journey Toward Veterinary Medicine: San Bernardino native transitions from Marine Corps logistics to a future in animal care
After serving four years in the United States Marine Corps as a logistics and supply specialist, one local veteran is pursuing a new path, this time in the field of veterinary medicine.
Originally from San Bernardino, California, the United States Marine Corps Veteran held the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) 3043, a role focused on logistics operations essential to mission success. While the discipline and structure of military life shaped her work ethic, the transition to civilian and academic life has presented a different kind of challenge.
Rather than moving directly from active duty into college, Esmeralda Meza first entered the workforce at a veterinary clinic. That experience proved pivotal, sparking a passion for animal care, and ultimately redefining her long-term goals.
“I didn’t go straight from active duty to being a student,” Emeralda explained. “Working at a veterinary clinic helped me realize what I wanted to pursue.”
Now enrolled at Copper Mountain College (CMC), she is completing prerequisites with plans to transfer to veterinary school. Alongside her studies, Esmeralda works as a VA work-study student, gaining valuable administrative and organizational skills that extend beyond the classroom.
“Not only am I getting my prerequisites done, but I’m also maintaining skills through work-study that I can use outside of school,” they said.
The adjustment to student life has not been seamless. One of the biggest hurdles has been adapting to a less structured environment.
“The tempo is very different,” she noted. “It varies depending on the class, the format—online or in-person—and even the difficulty. That inconsistency can be frustrating.”
Despite these challenges, support from the college’s Veterans Resource Center (VRC) and the broader veteran community has made a significant impact. Encouragement from fellow veterans even led to a major shift in career direction—from nursing to veterinary science.
“The VRC helped me continue challenging myself and building my resume,” she said. “The veteran’s community really supported me and encouraged me to pursue veterinary medicine.”
Looking ahead, the future is focused and ambitious. Her goal is to become either a livestock or small animal veterinarian, potentially working across different military bases.
Outside of academics and work, they find balance through hobbies like archery and reading activities that offer both focus and relaxation.
Through Esmeralda’s VA work-study role, she has also developed practical skills in systems management and record organization, tools that could open doors to future opportunities within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
From military logistics to animal care, this veteran’s journey reflects adaptability, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose—qualities that continue to guide them toward their next mission.

From Global Service to Local Impact – A Marine Veteran’s Mission Continues at CMC: Ewa Beach native channels military experience into a future in federal investigations
Gabriel T. Freeman, originally from Ewa Beach, Hawaii, brings a remarkable depth of experience and global perspective to his journey as a student at Copper Mountain College (CMC). After six years of service in the United States Marine Corps, Freeman is now focused on advancing his education and pursuing a career in federal law enforcement.
During his time in the Marine Corps, Freeman served in multiple roles across a range of highly specialized fields. As a Marine Embassy Guard (MOS 8156), he was stationed in Nicaragua and Uganda, where he protected U.S. diplomatic personnel and facilities. His assignments also extended to Honduras and Mexico City, where he supported riot control operations during periods of civil unrest. In Honduras, he worked alongside the U.S. Secret Service on a Vice-Presidential security detail—an experience that would later influence his career ambitions. While in Uganda, he participated in humanitarian aid missions and provided security during protests.
Freeman also served as an Infantry Rifleman (0311) with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, Lima Company, where he held the leadership role of Fire Team Leader. In addition, he took part in a Marine Corps proof-of-concept program as an Infantry Scout and Precision Marksman (0315), operating as a point man responsible for reconnaissance and navigation. His training included the Joint Fires Observer (JFO) Primer and Basic Infantry Scout Course, and he conducted coordinated call-for-fire exercises involving artillery, mortars, and air-to-ground assets.
Continuing his service in the reserves, Freeman trained as an Expeditionary Firefighter (7051), where he supervised Marines and ensured emergency readiness during simulated aircraft crash scenarios.
Following his active-duty service, Freeman worked as a security contractor and temporary private investigator. However, he soon realized the importance of further education to remain competitive and achieve his long-term goals. He enrolled at CMC with aspirations of entering federal service in sex crimes investigations, ideally with the U.S. Secret Service or the Department of Homeland Security.
“CMC has given me the opportunity to build the technical and academic foundation I need,” Freeman said. “I’m especially interested in certifications like ethical hacking and programming, which are critical in modern investigations.”
In addition to its technology programs, Freeman highlighted the strength of CMC’s criminal justice courses and the active involvement of the Criminal Justice Club in preparing students for careers in law enforcement. He also plans to complete Emergency Medical Services coursework to further expand his skill set.
Freeman’s transition from military to student life was not without challenges. He initially faced doubts influenced by negative perceptions about life after service, which led him to enter the workforce instead of college. A conversation with a fellow Marine who had successfully transitioned into higher education ultimately changed his perspective.
“That conversation made me realize what was possible,” he said. “It pushed me to invest in my future.”
While the adjustment to academic life required effort, Freeman credits CMC instructors and the Tutoring & Academic Support Center (TASC) for providing the support needed to succeed. He also acknowledges the role of the Veterans Resource Center (VRC) in helping him navigate his education benefits, receive academic counseling services, and connect with essential resources.
Looking ahead, Freeman is optimistic about his future. With a clear sense of purpose, he is committed to continuing his education and building a career centered on service and impact.
Outside the classroom, Freeman maintains an active and diverse set of interests. He is an amateur MMA fighter and competes in rifle, pistol, and shotgun shooting events. He also enjoys reading comics, with favorites including The Punisher, Batman, Iron Man, and The Question. Additionally, he is involved in Christian missionary work, having evangelized in Japan and participated in community service efforts such as feeding the homeless and assisting with construction projects.
Through his role in the VA Work Study program, Freeman continues to serve others by helping fellow veterans access resources and navigate their transition to civilian and academic life.
“I enjoy helping other veterans see that life after active duty can be successful and meaningful,” he said.
From safeguarding embassies overseas to guiding fellow veterans at home, Gabriel Freeman’s commitment to service remains unwavering—now strengthened by education and a vision for the future.

This story originally appeared in the May 2026 issue of The Cacti Chronicles.