Meet Lucas Papadopoulos—a Navy Veteran, proud Illini, and a student paving his way from service to a future in public health. Originally from Lisle, Illinois, Lucas served in the United States Navy from 2016 to 2020 as a Petty Officer 2nd Class, working as an Aviation Maintenance Administrationman (AZ). He completed two deployments to the Persian Gulf aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, one in 2016 and another in 2020.

After concluding his military service, Lucas felt it was time to try something new: higher education. “I decided I wanted to give school a shot once more in hopes of earning a degree to help me land a decent job in the future so I may support a family of my own,” Lucas shared.

While the structure and camaraderie of military life may seem worlds apart from a college campus, Lucas has embraced the challenge of transitioning into student life. For him, the biggest adjustment has been building social connections. “Most students are coming straight from high school, so the age difference can make it tough to relate,” he said. “But I’ve met a lot of vets with similar experiences at the Veteran Center. It’s really comforting to have that shared bond.”

Lucas credits much of his success to the support systems he’s found on campus. Chief among them: his academic advisor. “She’s helped me stay on track with my degree and avoid overloading myself,” Lucas explained. “The staff at the Chez Veteran Center have also been incredibly helpful whenever I’ve needed something. It’s reassuring to know there’s support if I need it.”

Now pursuing a degree in Community Health through the College of Applied Health Sciences, Lucas sees a clear connection between his military background and his academic interests. “My time in the Navy gave me strong administrative skills, and I wanted to apply that to healthcare. I knew Pre-Med wasn’t for me, so Community Health seemed like the best fit.” His long-term goal? Earning a Master of Public Health through the university’s 4+1 program. “I’m learning about a lot of career options through my classes, and the MPH will hopefully open even more doors.”

Outside of class, Lucas is active in both Veteran and recreational organizations on campus. He’s participated in events with Illini Veterans and found a unique niche in the U of I Calisthenics Club. “It’s been a fun way to meet people and stay in shape,” he said. “We even competed against the Barbell Club last fall, which was a blast.” One unforgettable moment? “During the tug-of-war, the rope actually snapped! Everyone just fell back and started laughing. It was one of those moments you’ll always remember.”