Apr 14, 2026
If Ekow Aidoo, 40, could give his fellow veterans one piece of advice, it would be this: “Don’t wait for the ‘perfect time.'"
Instead, Aidoo believes in taking action to set yourself up for success, just as he did when he joined the military to build better skills and habits.
“I wanted a purposeful career grounded in discipline and service,” he said.
After serving in the Army National Guard and Air Force, Aidoo learned about the VFW’s “Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship.” Recognizing it as another opportunity to better himself, Aidoo applied. He is grateful for the financial assistance.
“To everyone who made this scholarship possible,” Aidoo said, “thank you for investing in my growth and for believing in veterans’ potential to keep serving our communities and our country.”
Aidoo is pursuing his Master of Business Administration degree in information technology management. He explained that receiving the scholarship provided a sense of support and encouragement because it meant that others believed in him. He wants to motivate other veterans in the same way.
“Use the discipline you gained in service to push through the challenges of school. Take advantage of the benefits you’ve earned, ask for help and stay consistent. Education opens doors long after the uniform comes off.”
Aidoo acknowledges that going to school can be difficult. But he insists that veterans are equipped to succeed.
“If there’s one thing that other veterans take from my story, I hope it’s that it’s never too late to grow or start something new. The military taught us resilience, adaptability and how to learn under pressure. Those skills translate directly to your education,” he said.
“I’m still trying to balance service, family and school, but opportunities like this scholarship remind me that I’m not doing it alone. There’s a community behind us that believes in our potential.”
Learn more about the VFW's "Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship."