YORK, Pa. — Transitioning from military service to civilian life is a great challenge that veterans face. For John “Murf” Murphy and Bryan England, two veterans attending Penn State York, this transition has been a journey of growth and community. As respective president and vice president of the Penn State York Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter, Murf and Bryan have become key advocates for veterans on campus, leveraging their experiences and the support of organizations like the Women's Philanthropic Network (WPN) to build a brighter future for themselves and their peers.
John “Murf” Murphy: A perspective rooted in service
Murphy’s story is one of extensive experience and adaptability. Serving in the U.S. Navy for 24 years, he built an impressive career as an aviation electrician and cryptologist. Reflecting on his time in the Navy, he shares, “I’ve done a few laps around the planet.”
Now, as a student majoring in information systems technology, Murphy is channeling his technical skills and passion for problem-solving into a new career path. “I’ve been in the military longer than I’ve not been in the military,” he admitted. He said he is committed to helping other veterans navigate the often-overwhelming process of transitioning to civilian and academic life.
Bryan England: A journey across branches
England’s military career spans two branches and nearly a decade of service. Initially joining the Marine Corps as a musician, England's path took unexpected turns. He shifted his focus to internal security for a deployment to Iraq.
England's military journey didn’t stop there. He later transferred to the Army, where he specialized as an orthopedic technician. Now a student, he is using his diverse background to build a new future with his family, for which he was a stay-at-home dad for almost 10 years after military service. England works alongside Murphy to create a supportive community for veterans at Penn State York.
The challenges of transition
For both Murphy and England, returning to civilian life has been far from easy.
“The hardest part about being a veteran is engaging with the community,” England said. After years of serving in tightly knit military units, the shift to civilian life can feel isolating. Many veterans struggle to find their place in a world that often doesn’t fully understand their experiences.
Murphy echoed this sentiment, noting that the structured, mission-driven environment of the military is vastly different from the independence and ambiguity of civilian life. England added, “When you get out, it’s like not being part of a team anymore.”
The Student Veterans of America (SVA) is a vehicle for vets to find meaning and purpose outside the military structure.
Building community through the Student Veterans of America
The SVA chapter at Penn State York is more than just a club; it’s a lifeline for veterans like England and Murphy. By organizing events, providing resources, and fostering connections, the SVA helps veterans navigate the challenges of academic and civilian life. These two veterans said that they want every veteran at Penn State York to know that the SVA is there for them.
For the two, one of the most impactful experiences for the SVA chapter has been attending the national SVA conference in January. This annual event brings together student veterans from across the country to share their stories, network with employers, and gain valuable insights into career and educational opportunities. Both Murphy and England credit their attendance at the conference to the generosity of the Penn State York’s Women’s Philanthropic Network (WPN).
One of the key goals of the SVA and the national conference is to strengthen the veteran-employer pipeline. Veterans bring a wealth of skills to the workforce, from leadership and teamwork to problem-solving and adaptability. However, translating those skills into civilian careers can be challenging.
Through workshops, networking sessions, and panel discussions, the SVA conference helps veterans bridge this gap. According to Murphy and England, the conference was an eye-opening experience.
Looking ahead
As the SVA president and vice president continue their academic journeys, they each remain committed to making a difference in the lives of their fellow veterans. Through their leadership in the SVA and their dedication to building a strong veteran community at Penn State York, they are helping to pave the way for future generations of student veterans.
According to England and Murphy, the SVA at Penn State York wouldn’t be possible without Christina Lee, admissions assistant and veteran certifying official. “If anybody is the backbone of the SVA, it’s Christina,” said England.
For Murphy, England and countless other veterans, the road from military service to civilian life is not without its challenges. But with determination, community and the support of organizations like the SVA, they are proving that the next chapter can be just as fulfilling as the last.
For more information about the Student Veterans of America, reach out to Lee at cob165@psu.edu.