Published on Nov. 17, 2025
By: Kampbell Hemeyer, Alivia Roach
Ashley Flewellen grew up in a military family and never planned on joining the U.S. Armed Forces; but when it was time to pursue higher education, she knew the benefits joining could offer.
Flewellen, a second-year graduate student studying journalism, is originally from Atlanta and is no stranger to travel. She has lived in several cities due to her father’s role in the Army; a path she would eventually follow herself.
For Flewellen, she joined the military because of the benefits that were offered. She understood the financial hurdles that started after high school, and knew the military was something she could depend on for support.
“When I was younger, I didn’t want anything to do with the military,” Flewellen said. “I thought it was for men. I wasn’t about to be rolling around in the dirt like my dad. I told myself, ‘I’m not doing it.’ But look at me now–It’s funny that I ended up joining.”
Before she had any interest in the military, Flewellen recalled her parents inspiring her deep desire to pursue higher education once she was older. She remembered how unlike other families vacation during Spring Break, her parents would take her to visit colleges; instilling in her a dream to pursue higher learning.
Her journey to Mizzou began after graduating from Norfolk State University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Virginia. Initially, she began a master’s program at Jackson State University, another HBCU in Mississippi, before transferring to Mizzou where she now studies broadcast TV news.
What ultimately drew her in was the experiential learning offered by the first and finest, Missouri School of Journalism. After discussing transfer options with an advisor, Flewellen discovered the J-school’s state-of-the-art facilities and established faculty, but the chance to work in the nation’s only university-owned, NBC affiliate commercial newsroom was an opportunity she couldn’t pass up.
Flewellen’s passion for storytelling is rooted deep in her youth, always enjoying the opportunity to read books aloud in class and speaking up for those who didn’t feel comfortable doing so. Now, she is doing the same as a reporter, being a voice for others and telling their stories.
Mizzou not only provided Flewellen with a nationally recognized academic experience, but crucial student resources to succeed as a military-connected transfer. The Veterans Center supports her as a full-time student and part-time 2nd Lieutenant in the Army National Guard. They connect her with other military-affiliated students, notify her about upcoming events and address questions or concerns she may have regarding her military benefits. The center is there and available to support military-connected students like Flewellen with just a call, email or office visit.
The Veterans Center also provides additional services that support her campus experience. These include career services, scholarship opportunities, VA resources, student-veteran involvement opportunities and more. Providing these services not only helps students balance their military involvement with their campus life, but to thrive within it.
“Try not to compare the Army to student life,” Flewellen said. “It’s very different. In the Army, you have directions and regulations–everything has a formula. There’s always someone telling you what to do, which makes things easier to a degree. On campus however, you have to set your pride aside and be open and ready to learn.”
After graduating in May, Flewellen plans to transition into a full-time role in the Army as a public affairs officer. Serving in the Army National Guard, she credits the Veterans Center for helping her build connections and access a strong support system that has opened doors.
Are you a Veteran or military-connected student? Take the next step toward your goals at Mizzou. The Veterans Center is here to help you navigate your benefits, build community and help you open doors to your future. Visit today–your next chapter starts here.