When Carlos S. got his undergraduate degree in business administration, he did it without the help of a computer or the Internet. Instead, he bought a typewriter and subscribed to business magazines, which he used to complete his course outlines. This was the only way he was able to complete his degree while he was in prison. 

Carlos, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, completed two combat duty tours in Iraq. Once he returned, his mental health fell by the wayside. He masked his issues with substance abuse, which eventually led to his incarceration. Rather than let his benefits expire while he was in prison, he decided to enroll in college. 

Now, Carlos is experiencing college as an on-campus student with technology at his fingertips. He is working toward his Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Pepperdine University in Malibu, Calif. With the help of MHALA’s Military Resource Center, Carlos received financial assistance and got the technology needed to complete his MBA.  

“If I hadn’t gotten help from MHALA, I probably wouldn’t have been able to go to school at Pepperdine,” said Carlos. “I couldn’t be in the position that I’m in without their help.”  

Getting Life-Changing Support 

Carlos was referred to MHALA’s Military Resource Center by the Department of Veterans Affairs. At that time, he was completing a halfway house program after being released from prison.  

With the help of his personal service coordinator, Rachel, Carlos was able to get connected to housing near Pepperdine. He was provided essential resources, including clothing and furniture, to help him turn that apartment into a home.   

He was also given the support needed to help him navigate the challenges of transitioning into independent living, including getting his full Veterans benefits restored. 

“Anytime I called Rachel or needed a resource, she was there,” Carlos said. “She’s not my personal service coordinator anymore – she's family.”  

A Journey of Giving Back 

This sense of stability has allowed Carlos to focus on his goals. He plans to use his MBA to give back in the way that MHALA and other organizations gave back to him in order to help others in their recovery. 

“The journey of giving back has taught me that the road to recovery is not without its hardships. It requires resilience and a willingness to offer second chances, knowing that not everyone's journey will be a straightforward success story,” Carlos said. “The business of supporting individuals through their recovery is demanding, but it is also deeply rewarding.” 

For the strides he has made and his desire to give back, Carlos was awarded the highest achievement award at MHALA’s 2024 Golden Bell Awards.