What kind of challenges did you face when transitioning out of the military whether it was to go to school or work?

Transitioning from active duty to civilian, the main point I would stress is that the structure, motivation and initiative that good soldiers and service members show can many time seem intimidating to employers.

Managers need to understand the dynamics of how we are built, or Rather, "rebuilt."

Today's workplace is not like the workplace of years past, and just as the soldier may not be ready for an employer, many times the employer is not quite ready for the unique work ethic and drive of those service members who have strived to excel and thrived in the military culture.

I would suggest that employers spend more time with the soldiers. I know a training period should be given to everyone, but service members many times desire to know a great deal more about what is expected.

Let the employers know that they need to utilize those traitor such as initiative and motivation.

A very bold suggestion is to suggest a military transition program where a person is assigned to help the soldier adjust (much like happens to a soldier assigned to a new unit.

Veterans of our armed forces often times exhibit traits which can be misunderstood in a civilian work environment where there are no former military working.

Even bolder yet, design a small booklet or sheet outlining the "chain of command" in that company, and a concise list of items in the soldiers "lane."

Employers, take advantage of the personality traits which Veteran's bring to the table and allow them to help enhance the company.

One last note: most Veteran's do not work well under a micromanagement environment, LOL.

I'm typing this on my iPhone, so expect typo's and scattered thoughts.

First there are MANY differences between SM's retiring out. Everyone is different, location, education level, military MOS (does it transition to a civilian type job) family etc are just a few. My retirement was different as I got Med boarded after 17 years. I guess the biggest suggestion I could give would be save, save and save. As transitioning can be very expensive and remember you'll only get a percent of base pay, no BAH or BAQ. But bills still need to be paid. I know from my personal experience that the transition part of DOD that's supposed to help you with a plan for when you get out did nothing for me or my family. But again my situation was not the norm. I wish you the best of luck and God speed!!

I would tell you to try to incorporate several courses of action to take so that if one don't work, you will be prepared for the next. I'm not sure how much time you have left but try to maximize the amount of money you save to prepare for unexpected life's situations. Apply for grants and scholarships for college and look for a job in your current field of work.

Well my transition was stressful. My 2nd daughter was due 2 weeks before my EAS. Granted I saved up my leave so I had some buffer room. But it was hectic trying to locate a job so I could decide on a place to live all before my daughter was born.

Manage your expectations. The civilian world is not all rainbows and unicorns. It's harsh, unforgiving, and most people don't actually care what you did in the military.

I have $13k saved up when I got out. It went quick. I thought I was going to be able to find a job pretty easy since I had a lot of great experience from the Army. I was dead wrong. I couldn't find a job. I was under-qualified for any good jobs and overqualified for the bad ones. I couldn't even get hired at Walmart. My biggest hindrance was my lack of education. I decided to pursue a degree and 3 years later I got it. Two months after I graduated, I started my career with the Civil Service. One of my biggest challenges was figuring out I was. I knew who Sergeant Thomas was but I didn't have any idea who David was. That took some time. I can go on for hours about this but I'll spare you that lol.