What has been your biggest roadblock as you transitioned into civilian life?

PO1 Eric Corralejo, I'm not sure what companies you interviewed with but I would say they are a minority. Most employers see Veterans as a strong employee to have. We have a track record of working well in both large and small groups with or without supervision. If the company you are interviewing you comes up to you with that excuse, then I would love the chance to talk to them. I've spoken with a lot of companies and I can tell you 99.9999% of them want to hire Veterans.

When I left the Air Force in 1992, after 10 years, I applied and was accepted to become a Las Vegas Police Officer. The problem with that was the next academy date was a year or more away. In the mean time I had a difficult time getting a job, that would utilize my military experience and feed my family of 4. I was either over qualified or lacked so called real world experience. After a few months a casino security director (USAF Veteran) gave me a chance. I never went to the police academy, stayed in the casino business and for the last 22 years I have been paying it back.

I know it's a little off topic but I think it's important for veterans who are in positions to hire employees to tout the successes of hiring veterans who succeed. Prove that the negative stereotypes are wrong, show that the positive stereotypes are true. I have hired dozens of veterans, some haven't worked out for what ever reason, but the majority have worked and have become very successful.

PO1 Eric Corralejo Mindset. After spending 23 years in service my mind was not where it needed to fully and properly transition. Maybe it's still not - but life does not wait for you to get your mindset in the proper lane. Listen to the hints given by the interviewers - don't be the poster child for "how NOT to be a military veteran".

My grandfather served - but you'd never know it from his discussions or actions. It was only after I had been in for several years and returned home on leave that he would talk about his service. Be proud, yes. Be boastful, arrogant - not in your best interest. You know what you bring to the table at an interview, but it's far better to not overwhelm those who have never "been there, done that" - especially when they're the ones that might hire you. Show the interviewer you can adapt, adjust, overcome - not how you can destroy, mangle and overwhelm.