Elena Stofle, 25, was an Air Force Paralegal and Postal Troop from 2008 to 2013, having served in Germany and Southwest Asia.
“My years in the military taught me responsibility, attention to detail and discipline,” said Stofle. “I cannot overstate how proud and honored I am to have been a member of the world’s greatest Air Force.”
While on active duty, Stofle took online classes to get a headstart on her next chapter. As she said, “Since the day I decided to join the military, higher education has been in the forefront of my mind.”
Now officially a civilian, Stofle is a junior at Florida State University, where she is an active member of the Collegiate Veterans’ Association.
“I’m studying English with a focus in editing, writing and media,” said Stofle. “I hope to work for a publisher in the book industry.”
The president of the Collegiate Veterans’ Association told Stofle about a scholarship that would ease the financial burden of college—the VFW “Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship.” Stofle applied and was awarded nearly $3,500.
“The kindness and generosity that the VFW and Sport Clips have shown means more to me than I can say,” said Stofle. “Now I can work less and focus on my education. Not a lot of students get that chance.”
The scholarship not only gets Stofle closer to her goals, it also helps her transition back to civilian life. To other veterans recently separated, Stofle shares words of wisdom.
“Get involved with the VFW. It’s so much easier to adjust when you have help. VFW members are your family, your fellow veterans, and they won’t lead you astray.”