Profile: Student Veteran

Posted by on November 11, 2009 in News.

Steven Neshkoff is a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, and is now a full-time Ferris student

Securing the Premises: Steven Neshkoff checks the roads for IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) on the roadside while on duty in Iraq. Photo Courtesy of Steven Neshkoff
Securing the Premises: Steven Neshkoff checks the roads for IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) on the roadside while on duty in Iraq. Photo Courtesy of Steven Neshkoff
Upon graduating high school, Steven Neshkoff’s mom gave him two choices: get a job or move out of the house. He decided to do both.

Neshkoff joined the United States Air Force in July of 2002, and served for six years. He is a veteran of the wars in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

“I did nine months in Iraq, and a quick three month stint in Afghanistan,” said Neshkoff.

Neshkoff also worked security for dignitaries including the United States Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, members of Congress and the House of Representatives, the first lady and President Bush.

“Anywhere they needed to fly, I pulled security for their aircraft while they were on the ground,” said Neshkoff.

He had the opportunity to meet many high-ranking American officials at the time and traveled the world. Neshkoff said he has now seen 22 percent of the world.

While in Iraq, he was stationed in the southern end, only a short chopper ride away from Kuwait.

While those serving in the armed forces have many different reasons for their decision, Neshkoff said his was not a political one.

“You can pick a side, but a president gets elected and he is your Commander in Chief and you do what he says,” he said. “You can like him or dislike him, but he is still your boss.”

He is now a sophomore at Ferris and runs for the Ferris track and cross country teams. At first, he had a hard time adjusting to college life.

“Going from being told this is where you have to be at this time, look like this…now going to college you are told ‘be who you are,’” said Neshkoff of his initial struggle adjusting.

He is very positive when looking back on his time in the Air Force. He talked of the benefits that he now receives, which includes a full ride to college. He is a history education major with a minor in geography.

Neshkoff is also the president of the Veterans RSO here on campus. He said that he wants to help others like him to not go through what he did in struggling to adjust to college.

“I’m glad I did it (joined the Air Force), it made me who I am today,” said Neshkoff. “If you see a vet, thank him. These guys lay their lives on the line…and some of them didn’t come home.”