Derek Auguste’s work at Florida International University centers on helping military-affiliated students manage the transition from service to civilian education and employment. He is program director in FIU’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs and chairs the advisory board of United Way Miami’s Mission United, the program that previously helped him set financial and educational goals, according to Caplin News and WPLG Local 10.
Building support after service
In that work, Auguste helps veterans navigate education, finances and the broader adjustment to life outside the military. Caplin News reported that about half of student veterans nationwide complete a degree within six years, while more than 900,000 veterans use GI Bill education benefits each year. The figures underscore the practical challenges addressed by transition services connected to Auguste’s current role.
Mission United became part of Auguste’s own recovery after he left the Army. Local 10 reported that the loss of his military income contributed to financial pressure, that his home entered foreclosure, and that he was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and experienced suicidal thoughts. He sought counseling and assistance from Mission United and the Center for Financial Stability; the support eventually helped him repay his mortgage debt, according to the station.
A military career followed by a reset
Support available at FIU
The FIU information cited here does not specify how many student veterans the university serves. According to FIU’s Division of Student Affairs, its Office of Veteran and Military Affairs offers personalized success coaching to help military-affiliated students stay on track for graduation. The office also has trained staff, including a V.A. VetSuccess on Campus Counselor, who help students navigate education benefits and connect with university and community resources.
Auguste enlisted in the Army in 2004 at 19 and served 11 years as a 74 Charlie cryptographic specialist, handling the encryption and decryption of military communications. He completed multiple deployments, including 15 months in Iraq, and left the service as a staff sergeant, according to Caplin News and WPLG Local 10.
Local 10 reported that Auguste enlisted after the September 11 attacks and a downturn in his corporate-sales work. He had a young daughter when he joined, and his son was born during his service; he was away from home for nearly half of his military career, the station reported.
Education and continued service
After leaving the Army, Auguste returned to school and completed a political science degree at the University of Miami in 2020. He also led the university’s Veteran Student Organization and volunteered with organizations including The Mission Continues, according to University of Miami News.
Auguste’s experience with financial and mental-health difficulties, followed by his return to higher education, now informs the assistance he provides through FIU and Mission United. The account of his earlier crisis is based principally on Local 10’s interview and reporting, while Caplin News and University of Miami News provide additional context about his military transition and education.
