SAN MARCOS, Texas - Some veterans are finding their transition back into civilian life is a little bit easier under water.

Texas State University offers a scuba course specifically for vets.

"When you're under water, there's no experience like it," said Navy veteran turned college student, Chris Diaz.  

Each of the divers in the course recently separated from their respective military branches and enrolled at Texas State University.

Diaz said going from an aircraft carrier in the Persian Gulf to a college classroom isn't easy.

"Sometimes it’s hard to find people that I can relate to or people that have similar perspectives and experiences to me. So finding this group was really something special," said Diaz.

Instructor Bob Vesseliza, a retired Army Special Forces soldier, said these veterans are putting their backgrounds to use.

"Things like problem solving, critical thinking, task orientation," explained Vesseliza. 

Now as these veterans navigate uncharted waters, diving is quickly becoming the outlet they needed.

"Being under water, we've found, is just an amazing skillset to have. It's a life-long skill. It's something you can do forever," said Operation Scuba founder Rus Miller. 

"I think one of the biggest challenges coming out is just learning to create that structure for myself, and chasing after things that I want to do," said Diaz.

Diaz said he's found that structure for his new life through diving.

Operation Scuba runs off donations. If you’d like to help the program stay afloat, visit www.operationscuba.org.