BGSU student, Navy veteran pursues education at University for supportive environment, academic programming

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio – A Navy veteran is pursuing his education at Bowling Green State University after finding a supportive learning community and academic programming to advance his career and life.

Following in his family’s footsteps, Jeffrey Mustard served in the U.S. military after graduating from high school. After serving five years in the U.S. Navy as a submarine sonar technician, Mustard continued to serve his country, working as a contractor to install, maintain and repair submarine systems for the U.S. Navy fleet.

Stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, Mustard decided to utilize his GI Bill benefits and began exploring colleges. He turned his focus to BGSU, ranked the No. 1 university in the Midwest for veteran and active military students.

"My choice of BGSU was strategic and family-focused," Mustard said. "As a husband and father of two beautiful children, finding a university in a safe, welcoming community was paramount. The family-friendly atmosphere, safe neighborhoods, excellent city infrastructure and reliable utilities create an ideal environment for veteran families.”

Now living in the city of Bowling Green – ranked one of America’s safest college towns – Mustard chose to pursue a degree in construction management inspired by his years of experience working on submarines. To help prepare for his future career, Mustard selected BGSU, the only higher education institution in Ohio that prioritizes the approach of construction management students working with and learning alongside peers in architecture and environmental design.

"The program's comprehensive design allows me to combine my technical background, leadership experience and passion for building into a meaningful and lasting career," Mustard said.

Taking a hands-on approach to learning and applying construction management practices, Mustard's fear of adapting to academic life quickly disappeared.

"I remember being genuinely shocked by the support and willingness to help from everyone I encountered," he said. "The faculty at BGSU truly value veteran students for our engagement, work ethic and real-world perspective.

"Multiple professors have also demonstrated exceptional understanding of my commitments as a husband and father, working with me to ensure I can excel academically while maintaining my family responsibilities."

This summer, Mustard secured an internship at Kwest Group LLC, a civil and environmental construction company in Perrysburg, Ohio, as a member of their project management team. Each day, he applies his existing skill sets, learns from his peers and supports the team by researching, contacting and consulting with vendors and subcontractors on various projects.

"The construction management program provided me with both the technical foundation and industry knowledge essential for success in this internship," Mustard said. "The experiential learning opportunities in the classroom directly translated to real-world applications on my current projects."

Slated to graduate in Spring 2027, Mustard said BGSU is a place where veterans and active military students should consider pursuing their education, either during or after their service.

"Bowling Green is rightfully recognized as one of America's best college towns," he said. "While my experience differs from that of traditional students due to my family responsibilities and military background, BGSU has a remarkable community culture both on campus and throughout the surrounding area.

"BGSU is committed to supporting military-affiliated students, creating an environment where veterans can thrive academically while maintaining work-life balance. I look forward to contributing to Ohio's construction industry while continuing to serve my community in new ways."