Tips for a Smoother Military-to-Civilian Transition through Education

RallyPoint Team — Fri, 29 Apr 2016 14:19:46 -0400

It’s no secret; change can be very stressful. That’s true whether you’re in the military or a civilian – and especially so when you’re transitioning from one to the other.

From military spouses and families to active-duty personnel, coming up on your end date and getting ready to rejoin the civilian population is no picnic. Where will you live? What’s it take to adapt to civilian life? What kind of benefits can you and your family expect to continue to receive…and how?

And a biggie: What will you do for a new career?

As an educator with a military friendly educational institution, I’ve worked with dozens of active-duty servicemembers, veterans, and military families. I’ve learned a few things I’d like to pass on to you as you consider your transition, especially if you know education is the route to a brighter post-military future.

Start Now.

The sooner you begin, the sooner you will graduate with a degree. That may seem like common sense, but many avoid the commitment of a degree program thinking they’ll move before they can complete it. An online degree program gives you the flexibility to attend classes from anywhere there’s a stable Internet connection.

Transfer Credit.

While this is up to the receiving institution, most schools will accept credit earned at an accredited on-ground or online college. Many colleges, especially those with a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) policy, will also award credit based on military training, equivalency exams, and life experiences. Be sure to check out the transfer policies of the schools you’re considering.

Ask Questions.

Have some colleges in mind but not sure which is right for you? Here are a few questions to ask – or explore – to help you make the right decision:

• Does the school give credit for military experience and training?
• What’s its Career Services Department like?
• Does it have a fully staffed VA department?
• What is the learning experience like?
• Does it offer free tutoring services?
• Will an advisor be assigned to me?
• How can I judge the quality of an online school?

(Note: The best way to determine the academic viability of an institution is to ensure the agency accrediting it is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation [CHEA].)

Invest Wisely.

Ask about funding your education as a servicemember and select a school that specializes in being a military friendly institution. You earned your benefits. Don’t be overwhelmed by the ins-and-outs of all that is available to you. You can find resources online, but a true military friendly school will have a fully staffed VA department that can walk you through the process.

Transitioning from military life to civilian life can be overwhelming, but it can also be very exciting. As you look toward this transition, remember preparation through education is the key.

Good luck!
--
This piece was written by Eden Lord, adjunct faculty at Grantham University. For more information, check out Grantham’s series of Military-to-Civilian Transition Guides: http://bit.ly/grantham-u-resources

Resource Archive - Grantham University – Get your Degree Online

Copyright 2016 Grantham University. Grantham University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Additionally, the Mark Skousen School of Business at Grantham University has been awarded the status of Candidate for Accreditation by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2016 2:24 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Apr 2016 14:24:15 -0400

Solid advice that I'd like to supplement is to learn the JST, VMET, GI Bill Comparison Tool, ACE recommendations, and try to find Vet organizations nearby - VSO, Clear Path, Team RWB, Team Rubicon.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2016 2:34 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Apr 2016 14:34:58 -0400

Decide what you would like to do next, and then do the research to find out the skills and education needed for that job. Then decide which college to go to and start work on your degree. Obtaining a degree can open doors to your dream job!

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Apr 29 at 2016 8:00 PM

Capt Brandon Charters — Fri, 29 Apr 2016 20:00:48 -0400

These are all great questions to ask. I would also lean heavily on the advice of fellow service members and veterans. They have walked in these shoes before you and navigated the decision making process. Their feedback is invaluable in your searh of a "veteran friendly" school.

Response by SFC Eric Williams made Apr 29 at 2016 11:31 PM

SFC Eric Williams — Fri, 29 Apr 2016 23:31:22 -0400

Well said!

Response by CSM David Litteral made May 2 at 2016 2:12 PM

CSM David Litteral — Mon, 02 May 2016 14:12:08 -0400

These points are on-point. The only addition I would respectfully make is in regards to transfer credits. If a school wants to give you transfer credit for something that you learned a long time ago in the military- think about asking them not to award you those credits. Example- you retire from the Army after 20 years. You learned computers in the Army 18 years ago and now you are in an MBA program where you will need knowledge of the latest computer tools and programs. If you accept the transfer credits VA will not pay for the class again. Once you realize you need more current training on computers, you will end up paying out of pocket.

Response by William Chu made May 3 at 2016 2:43 PM

William Chu — Tue, 03 May 2016 14:43:01 -0400

This is really great advice :)

Response by Nick Petros made May 3 at 2016 2:43 PM

Nick Petros — Tue, 03 May 2016 14:43:20 -0400

Invest wisely - seconded!

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2016 11:12 AM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 May 2016 11:12:37 -0400

Thank you for this article and advice, it is well appreciated as I and others press forward with our education and careers.

Response by SGM Robert King made May 5 at 2016 8:49 AM

SGM Robert King — Thu, 05 May 2016 08:49:04 -0400

This is a good article, plan for your next career. Remember your were looking for a job when you found this one, so plan for the next one. If you are lucky enough to get 20 years and get a retirement that is a bonus. I always planned for the worst and hoped for the best. It has worked for me and I am now a comfortable retired SGM.

Response by SPC Delbert Cannoy made May 5 at 2016 9:50 AM

SPC Delbert Cannoy — Thu, 05 May 2016 09:50:16 -0400

Here are a couple of tips I found useful while going back to school after being deployed and Honorably discharged from the Army. One be honest-you would not lie to an officer or NCO do not lie to your professor. If your disabled as I am let them know in advance, they will appreciate that and respect your integrity. Two when picking a career-pick something that is applicable meaning you like it and have some experience in it. I chose Geography and Cartography because as Chemical operations Specialist, I was trained in field reconnaissance, decontamination, and smoke operations which required extensive use of maps and I was interested in different cultures which geography has in abundance. I ended up with a 3.8 and Master of science degree and might be going for a PHD. Three- do quality work. Just because your out of the army does not mean the standards have changed, so do your work on time and attend every class you can. Also do not cope out by relying solely on your military experience-your in school to think it through and many of the students your with will not know your experiences. You can change the way they feel and think about the military by being open, honest, and intelligent in your discussions. Four-have fun. You earned it-make the most of the experience and add to yourself.

Response by MSgt Chaz Irvine made May 5 at 2016 11:49 AM

MSgt Chaz Irvine — Thu, 05 May 2016 11:49:53 -0400

After 24 years I took that first summer off then started at Weber State University, also a very veteran friendly school. I just graduated this year and as I sit here looking for a job I am stressed, but I am not that stressed. School gave me a buffer, between being military and civilian. It also set me up for better perspective cararer options.
My best advise, to those who might listen, do not sit around in your butts, get out and do something, school/work/travel/something profuctive for yourself, and those around you. Your experience in the military is a tool, a motivator, a blessing, use it and make yourself better and ready for the success you deserve.

Response by CPO Ronald Fledderman made May 5 at 2016 4:29 PM

CPO Ronald Fledderman — Thu, 05 May 2016 16:29:41 -0400

Does anyone remember PROJECT TRANSITION which started in 1968? All Services had it back then. I was a Project Transition Counselor from '68 to '70 and helped many sailors (enlisted and officers) revert to civilian life. I also worked very close with the US Air Force office in Charleston, SC It was very rewarding to help them. They should bring it back. Ron Fledderman, PNC, USN Retired

Response by CPO Ronald Fledderman made May 5 at 2016 4:41 PM

CPO Ronald Fledderman — Thu, 05 May 2016 16:41:46 -0400

Does anyone remember PROJECT TRANSITION back in the late '60s and early '70s. I was a TRANSITION Counselor back then and assisted many service members, both enlisted and officers, from the Navy and Air Force with education and jobs in the Charleston, SC area along with other parts of the State and their home areas. It was great being able to help our men and women return to civilian life. Ron Fledderman, PNC, USN Retired

Response by CPT Dennis Stevenson made May 7 at 2016 9:34 AM

CPT Dennis Stevenson — Sat, 07 May 2016 09:34:32 -0400

I'm a Viet Nam vet. When I got out, I got a job with Bell Laboratories (I already had a BS in math). BTL paid for my masters. POINT 1. Many good companies will pay for your education. When you interview ask about their programs. At BTL I met a couple of vets, one of whom became my PhD advisor. POINT 2. If you don't go to school directly, be sure to find vets in your company; why will become clear in a second.

I taught at Clemson University for 33 years; Clemson has a rich military history. BUT starting with Desert Storm we started to see a difference with the vets. In effect, they became isolated in the student body and hanging pretty much by themselves. The obvious reason is that most undergrads have no concept of war, what you went through, and are quite immature compared to you. POINT 3. Find vets including faculty that you can rely on to help you cross the divide. Many colleges and universities have student contact point to help you with VA issues and other service related issues. POINT 4. IT AIN'T EASY. Form study groups if you can with students in your classes. Teaching each other is a fantastic way to come to understanding. POINT 5. Don't skip class but do have fun. POINT 6. If you're working on your bachelor's degree don't rush through your GenEd requirements. Get you grade point up on these course as this will cushion the occasional crappy semester you'll have later.

Good luck.

Response by 1SG Brian Adams made May 7 at 2016 9:44 AM

1SG Brian Adams — Sat, 07 May 2016 09:44:53 -0400

The GI Bill is your greatest asset for transitioning into the civil sector. Most Soldiers elected the GI Bill upon their first contract and enlistment. The GI Bill or Post 9/11 GI Bill will actually pay you a salary for going to college. It is a BAH stipend. Also pays for your tuition and books. So it is just like having a job in the mean time.
I recommend getting that degree as it will be needed to be competetive in the civilian job market.

Response by Sgt Lincoln Harris made May 7 at 2016 10:57 AM

Sgt Lincoln Harris — Sat, 07 May 2016 10:57:21 -0400

I'd add :
* Get recommendations from CO's/SNCO's/NCO's before you leave, ask for general types and then keep POC's for those folks you want to refer back to later in life.

* Lookup veterans groups in your new local that you plan on moving to (or back to) and see what contacts if any those folks are will to help you make.

* Be prepared to start all over at the bottom again. I went door to door to get my first job out of the Marine Corps and the sheer act of being humble (not a natural state of mind for a Marine) and stating that I would do anything etc was enough to win over my interviewer and get me that first job.

* Use terminal leave if at all possible. Having that cushion of a few months to look and get settled while transitioning is a life saver. You're still getting paid, have health insurance, are technically employed, all make a huge difference in the eyes of new employers.

* Be prepared for an entirely new way of life and people who act in ways that seem entirely foreign. No longer can you expect orders to be followed like they were in the military, people work a LOT slower than what you might be used to and daily accomplishments and progress feel vastly underwhelming to what you might have come from.

* Find fellow vets to commiserate with. This helps you both let go a bit of what you have left and understand what you are settling into.

Response by SSgt James Atkinson made May 7 at 2016 11:04 AM

SSgt James Atkinson — Sat, 07 May 2016 11:04:51 -0400

I would recommend packing in as much college while you are still on active duty, but while working on your 4-year degree to limit the amount of online courses you take, unless there is absolutely no other option. If the base has more then one college with an office on base, try to focus most of your courses with the one with the most courses, and then attend the other one to sort of fill in the gaps.

If you intend to attend college as soon as you get out of the military, then do not try to complete your 4-year degree in the military as this severely reduces your options as many schools will reject you if you already have a 4 year degree.

One tactic is to just blast through your 4-year "program" while still on active duty, and then continue to take courses as an undergraduate, and transfer to a different college as a civilian, or attend the civilian campus for the military extension. This way you will get a maximum of credits on your transcripts, all from one school. The trouble with this tactic is the college on campus may be a poorly respected school, and a degree from them is merely a degree, and it does not have the snap of a well more respected college.

Ideally, move right from active duty and jump right into school. But, maximize what you earn on active duty.

As a decent college degree takes several long years of education, instead of just leaving the military and never going back, transfer to a reserve component near where you will be going to school. But, avoid joining the National Guard unless there are no other options. The goal is to maintian an unbroken link back to the military.

When you meet with your career advisors (in the military), explain that you are seeking, or will be seeking to earn a Masters degree, and that you intend to depart active duty for reserve duty so that you can focus hard on your academics, and that once you earn you bachelors, plus one semester of graduate school that you will be seeking to attend officers training school, and that after you Masters is complete you will most likely return to active duty to continue your military career.

This plan tends to work exceptionally well, especially if you are on your first or second enlistment.

As an officer, you will have a tremendous advantage over officer of the same grade if you have a Masters degree, and of cours,e after things settle down after you obtain your commission, enroll in a PhD program, and until you retire, be super aggressive with your academics.

Good luck

Response by SCPO Karl Hoffmann made May 7 at 2016 5:37 PM

SCPO Karl Hoffmann — Sat, 07 May 2016 17:37:53 -0400

I was a senior enlisted who retired without finishing my degree. I didn't starve, but it sure made life a bit more difficult. Many doors were closed that should not have been. Didn't take long to realize how important an education and college degree is. Went on to complete my grad degree as well. Hate to quote Nike, but; Just Do It!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2016 3:08 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 May 2016 15:08:06 -0400

This is critical work for everyone. It is so important to out-process from the military and IN-PROCESS into the community. This includes refiling your social security card with the closest social security office. Following with this is your trip to the community health clinic for a Complete Physical to include Shots, Blood Work, and TB Test for the community. Additionally, a Release of Information needs to be filled out to TRANSFER your medical records to the community health clinic. This will ensure your assimilating with the community. While at the medical clinic ask for an appointment for a check for VISION, DENTAL, and HEARING. This will complete your IN-PROCESSING into the community. Once you leave the military you must in-process into the community because the US Military is a separate entity from the American Public. This is a mostly complete IN-PROCESS into the civilian life. No one tells you this when leaving base but all of these tasks are vital for comprehension of community activities and milestone achievement for a civilian career in any industry in the United States. YOUR MEDICAL RECORDS DO NOT TRANSFER WITHOUT A DIRECT ORDER FROM YOU! Please make a note of this. Thank you.
Dr. Gail Fahey

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Aug 5 at 2021 10:41 PM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 22:41:56 -0400

Thanks for sharing