Retired Marine Sgt. Jonathan Cruz didn’t dream of becoming a lawyer until later in life, and now he’s building his future at Wilmington University School of Law.

“I grew up in a very poor neighborhood in the Bronx, New York, and it just felt like it was out of my league,” says Cruz, a disabled veteran and one of more than 1,600 military-connected WilmU students. “I’m the first person in my family to graduate college, let alone try to go to law school.” 

He served as an HVAC technician in Afghanistan and suffered a brain injury while playing football. After his medical discharge, a childhood friend and attorney suggested a career in law. 

“It turned out this is a passion of mine,” says Cruz, who chose WilmU Law for its affordability, inclusivity and commitment to student success. “I love the environment, the ideals of what WilmU has planned for the law school.” 

He especially appreciates the University’s exceptional military support services, which earned WilmU the 2025-2026 Military Friendly Schools Award Gold-Level distinction — its 14^th consecutive Military Friendly recognition.  

“It’s been incredible the amount of resources that were given to me,” Cruz says. “Everybody’s so forthcoming, very shirt-off-your-back people, and I just love that.” 

The Benefits of a University for Military Members

WilmU Law holds classes in person, but the University offers other degrees and certificates 100% online so students can learn anywhere with web access. Active-duty service members can take advantage of WilmU’s undergraduate online military tuition rate. Plus, a dedicated team of counselors can maximize military benefits, such as the GI Bill® and Tuition Assistance. 

“It’s so exciting to have the knowledge to be able to help individuals,” says Dr. James Webb, an Air Force veteran and WilmU’s director of military affairs. “Every day I get a thank-you from somebody, and that’s what keeps me going — it touches the heart, for sure.” 

Online Universities for Military Spouses 

Wilmington University is also a Military Spouse Friendly® School, ensuring the best educational experience for service members’ spouses. Rafaella Nero, whose husband is a Marine, earned her B.S. in Law, Policy and Political Science at WilmU. 

“What I love most about Wilmington University is its commitment to inclusion and flexibility, and how it made higher education accessible and meaningful for me,” says Nero, adding that “because of our frequent relocations, finding an online program that could travel with me was essential. From the beginning, WilmU provided a smooth experience, helping me stay on track with my goals despite the challenges of military life.” 

Cruz’s goal after WilmU Law is “to go to New York City and basically fight for human rights,” and he’s grateful military benefits will help him achieve it.  

“Your GI Bill can reach so far. You may not even know the benefits you can obtain,” Cruz says. “WilmU and the faculty have just been there for me every step of the way.”