Only a Veteran can really know what the transition from military to civilian life entails. Here, we share some of their best tips to help you succeed.
What was the most helpful piece of advice you were given
when you left the military?
That good jobs will not
be easy to secure regardless of military experience.
To take my time making sure I know what I want to do.
I should not be discouraged when there are setbacks to my new
career.
What do you wish you would've known? What would you
have done differently? Military experience needs to be
explained in civilian terms... i.e. leadership position =
management position.
Its not the same out here...
DON'T give up, and don't settle for meritocracy!
I
would have made a better plan for transitioning.
Who are the contacts that would help a new Veteran the
most? The local veterans benefit advisor.. hands down the most
resourceful entity for veterans.
Employment Commission
veteran representatives are very helpful.
If you can
join a Veteran's group at your College, do so.
What would you tell another service member who wants to
return to school? Seek advice from question #3, you they know
what type of help they can get.
Don't be afraid to ask
for help even if it takes more than once.
Education is
the key to getting a better civilian job.
What has been your biggest struggle in transitioning to
civilian life? Realizing the fact that VERY FEW civilians care
about your service. Mostly because they do not have education
or experience with military. Many just assume, or rely on
hearsay.
Not having a good enough plan laid out to
follow. It took me quite a while to develop this.