What transition advice would you give to your troops?

2019-07-30T12:31:42-04:00

As a service member in transition, you may face barriers reaching your potential in accessing higher education and beginning meaningful careers, despite the many resources offered. The Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition is dedicated to creating free courses that will help to break down those barriers to your successful transition. Currently we are offering three courses to meet these demands, with more courses on the way.

Response by CW2 Michael Bodnar made Jul 30 at 2019 12:53 PM

2019-07-30T12:53:30-04:00

Get all of the information you can prior to making the transition. Ask tons of questions of everyone you come in contact with and ensure your records are straight before punching out the door - that alone will save you tons of headaches later on.

Response by SP6 Peter Kreutzfeldt made Aug 1 at 2019 10:40 AM

2019-08-01T10:40:50-04:00

Had 2 daughters in the Air Force for 8+ years. One failed to obtain all medical and mustering out papers and is now several years later paying the cost of not getting them. Get copies of everything pertaining to your service. Make sure all i's are dotted and the t's a crossed.

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Aug 1 at 2019 1:48 PM

2019-08-01T13:48:36-04:00

CPT Aaron Kletzing High speed troops (and program) right here.

Response by MAJ Rene De La Rosa made Aug 4 at 2019 11:08 PM

2019-08-04T23:08:57-04:00

Always have a plan to get out and then have 4-5 other options as well. If there is no hope after that, move to Las Vegas and get a job there and go to school at UNLV.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 5 at 2019 2:37 PM

2019-08-05T14:37:58-04:00

Go to out-processing to capture military experience to create a good resume.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 7 at 2019 4:47 PM

2019-08-07T16:47:29-04:00

Translate your military skills to civilian skills.

Response by SSgt Christina Herr made Aug 13 at 2019 2:24 PM

2019-08-13T14:24:40-04:00

Be prepared for the toll it will take on your mental and emotional health. Change does wacked out stuff to your body and mind. In addition, the loss of purpose that service members can often feel is not easy either. Add in the normal job-seeking stuff like shame (from yourself and others) and rejection (passive is the worst in my opinion)-and you are just a hot mess on some days. Gather your support system-make sure they actually support you even on your ugly days. Learn coping skills that help you. Heck, go to free therapy at the Vet Center if you qualify. Just don't wallow alone.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Aug 27 at 2019 9:19 AM

2019-08-27T09:19:34-04:00

COLLEGE COLLEGE COLLEGE, CERTIFICATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS!
For perspective, militarily, I have seven deployments, Audie Murphy, Samuel Sharpe, two ASI's, two SQI's, two badges, multiple volunteer awards, tons of awards and a partridge in a pear tree...
Now, I also have a Bachelors, and an Associate's degree.
When I retire soon, which do you think my next employer will care about?
Badges, ribbons, medals, deployments, berets... All of them and $5 will get you a venti white chocolate mocha at Starbucks...
You've gotta think long term..