Thoughts on transitioning from active to guard? Tips and any advice?

SGT (Join to see) if you are at the end of your contract and approaching ETS it could be a good way for you to continue your service, some money coming in while you job search, pursue education and start a civilian career at the same time. You need to check in and see if you can use the post 9/11 gi bill and the state tuition waiver at the same time (most states extend this to Guard members).

Reach out to your unit’s full time staff. They can help you on board smoother and ensure all your uniforms and equipment are up to snuff.

Understand that the pace of training is different. The Guard has to cram a lot into a short amount of time. The same annual requirements are mandated for Guard units as AD, but you have fewer days to accomplish them. Since your FA, be prepared to take the safety exam shortly after arriving. Overall, it won’t be bad. Take time to get to know your section just like on AD. Depending on when you arrive in the training cycle for your first drill you may have a super 8 UTA which is a 4-day drill. Discuss training with your employer if they are not familiar with Guard training cycles.

PS... make sure you get your points for your 20 year retirement and docs for any VA disability... don't quit or take time off. Ge get that retirement...