The pride of belonging

Community means everything to military veterans and their families. When they hear an encouraging word from loved ones during training and deployment; receive a helpful hand from a comrade in the field; or feel the pride of a fellow American who thanks them for their service – it feels like a warm embrace. It lifts them up.

Student veteran Kyle Hiner experienced the warmth of the Spartan community early on in life. He grew up in the area and participated in 4-H, campus exploration days, basketball camps “at the Brez,” canoeing and field hockey. “It was life changing and it made me fall in love with Michigan State at a really, really young age,” he says.

When he was 22, Kyle enlisted in the Marine Corps and served as a Marine administrator. He was in his 30s before he applied to his dream university to officially become a Spartan.

But his application wasn’t accepted – a fact that didn’t deter Kyle. Determined to show his Spartan Will, he spoke with an advisor and made a plan to improve his chances of acceptance. Five years later, he submitted his third application.

“I got accepted,” says Kyle. "I cried, I was so pumped. I was so happy.”

What had seemed like an unattainable goal was finally real, and the first thing Kyle thought of was helping others. “How do I help somebody else that doesn't believe in themselves, but they want to be here?” said Kyle.

“This Michigan State dream has been something I just thought was impossible for me. I think a lot of veterans out there might feel like that. But if I can do it, I know anyone can," he says.

The desire to connect and serve brought Kyle to the Center for Veterans and Military Affiliated Students, where Spartans rally around veterans and their families. Working with CVMAS Director Patrick Forystek, Kyle became part of the team as a team leader and peer advisor for veteran education.

“It's been a team effort,” Kyle says.  “As veterans we put our heads together, have a common goal and we synergize very well.”

The CVMAS builds confidence for servicemembers, veterans and their families so that they know they belong – which, according to Kyle, is what it’s all about. “I think that our veterans are feeling more comfortable and getting involved,” he says. "And then we see veterans thrive academically too.”

Kyle’s own academic experience at MSU has been very rewarding. “I'm finding out that I am capable, but that doesn't start or come without others believing in you.”

Kyle plans to graduate in December 2026 with a journalism degree from the College of Communication Arts & Sciences, and a double minor in sports journalism and broadcasting. He is excited to do sports features and perhaps find more ways to work with the veteran community.

Knowing that the Spartan community is there to support veterans and fund the CVMAS leaves Kyle feeling speechless and humbled. “I wish I could hug them. I wish I could meet all of them and let them know they’re impactful. They save lives.” 

When someone thanks Kyle for his service, he is quick to return the gratitude. “I think of all the moms and dads, the brothers and sisters, the friends. You're the backbone, you're the support,” he says.