1

More difficult

In my situation, I am about a month from graduating with my bachelor degree and the jobs that interest me want civilian experience and certifications.

2

As expected

What I trained for you had to know some one or be politically connected; I worked for what i got not given to me.

3

More difficult

I basically had to do it all myself.

4

More difficult

I think I was prepared for the transition itself, but life gets crazy sometimes.

5

More difficult

Transition best practices, and lessons learned are often lost with each transitioning veteran. The veteran community must come together to have a candid discussion on transition. Often, vets are left trying to figure it out on their own with no clear starting point.

6

As expected

I had done my homework and knew that if I did not start early, I would have a gap of weeks to months before I found a civilian position.

7

Easier

The job found me, I didn't find the job and it fit my skill sets.

8

More difficult

Feel the transition was not at all useful.

9

More difficult

The true understanding of what I was getting myself prepared for

10

As expected

I had a written plan and scheduled tasks to be completed 12 months out. I took the retirement checklist along with the out-processing checklist- included tasks for employment search/networking/job fairs and put these down on a long range calendar. This technique was extremely important toward effective transition.

11

More difficult

I retired after over 30 years and age and being overqualified seem to be the biggest challenge. Getting the first job was fairly quick and I was prepared, but when the company failed I was at a loss and still haven't recovered.

12

Easier

The military prepares you well. You will outperform most of your coworkers

13

Easier

The job matched my education and experience perfectly. I had worked with the organization in the past and continued to network with them through the years.

14

Easier

I was lucky to find a job in the commercial market that really utilized the skills that I was trained for in the military so my work transition was very smooth.

15

More difficult

As a reservist called to active duty I largely expected to step directly back into my life. This did not happen as expected. I was surprised by how antisocial I was during those first weeks and how valuable it was for me to just have some alone time to relax.

16

As expected

The hardest part was leaving the uniform.

17

As expected

I knew to plan early and prepare for the transition. I went into my terminal assignment for retirement knowing that my transition was the most important thing going on for me and that the military provided me the opportunity to do so to ensure a successful transition.

18

More difficult

Looking for something that related to my military job and that would offer a chance for career development/advancment

19

More difficult

I am still unemployed since I retired 7-months ago. I was so happy in the Army and job searching is very unenjoyable. In the meanwhile I take care of my family but I feel a lot of stress about money that I never felt before.

20

Easier

Being a career Engineer I had readily marketable skills, being an E9 helped move those skills directly into the management level in the civilian workforce.

21

More difficult

As a 22-year Army veteran, I expected my level of leadership experience would work to my benefit. However, the opposite was true...while I had the experience, education, and certifications that employers were seeking, I had no "corporate experience", so I was usually brushed aside.

22

More difficult

I was recruited to a government contractor, but the job was not as described and I was unhappy with the job itself.

23

As expected

I knew I was going for self employment, and that worked out till I could not do it any more due to service connected injuries.

24

As expected

I was on a compressed timeline and needed to get a job as quickly as I could, while not compromising my needs.

25

More difficult

I had absolutely no idea how to do it and no one to help or answer questions

26

More difficult

Acap & companies assisted senior NCO's & officers

27

More difficult

It took a lot longer to get a job than I thought it would.

28

More difficult

The first job lasted 2 years and the second lasted 6 months (Government Contract) But the search and transition afterwards was very difficult and still is. After going back to school to finish my Bachelors, which I made a priority, even after graduation, the search was never-ending with very little results. The main issue was that most companies required the technical experience you only get if you were actually working in that job for 5-6 years. If that was the case, if employees were already working in those jobs, why would they be looking for that job?

29

More difficult

I had a couple of "contingent offers" prior to retiring so I thought that I would be working within a couple of months, it took almost nine months to get a good job. It put stress on me and my family and it was hard to keep at it every day.

30

Easier

I expected the process to be very difficult. However, once I honed in on the type of position I was interested in, I focused on what skills I thought were transferrable and then went back to school to learn skills that I didn't have. Although I was reluctant at first, my decision to go back to school to study skills I didn't have proved to be crucial in securing the type of job I was looking for.

31

As expected

I had peers who proceeded me that told me what to expect

32

As expected

Had to work hard. I gathered as much information as possible, and busted my butt. It paid off.

33

Easier

I put a great deal of prep into my transition so mine went fairly smooth

34

Easier

I was hired to a new position and was able to adapt my skills and education to increase profitability for the company.

35

More difficult

Like many of the false promises made by the military, I assumed, erroneously, that I would actually have assistance in my transition and the programs would be in place to help facilitate my transition. None of this was true at the time and probably not true now either.

36

Easier

Very seamless transition after PTDY

37

As expected

I knew I had to make finding a job and advancing in that job my first priority.

38

As expected

The civilian world seemed a bit foreign at first. It seemed more unorganized and convoluted.

39

More difficult

I thought finding a position would be easy based on my skills and experience as a commission officer. I was somewhat difficult to showcase that experience to potential employers. It was a personal connection with a friend that opened the door to my first job opportunity.

40

As expected

going from a regimented lifestyle to a non regimented was difficult

41

As expected

I have a job offer 2 weeks prior

42

As expected

Transition was easy as I prepared for for a year but finding a job that paid the bills was very difficult.

43

More difficult

Joined organizations, that never helped

44

More difficult

It was the middle of a recession and I had not been in the army long enough to develop any real skills and I had no idea what I wanted to do .

45

More difficult

With regards to articulating my behavioral fit and work-skills, the hurdles were much higher than anticipated due to my interviewers stereotypes about "people from the military."

46

More difficult

I thought there would be little to no difference. I was very wrong

47

More difficult

Even though I was an experienced (11 years active duty) military officer (O-3) with an MBA, every company that showed interest wanted me to start at entry level w/ pay about 35% less than what I was earning in the military.

48

Easier

I knew it would take some time but 5 interviews and they all wanted me while I was on terminal leave

49

More difficult

I believed my 22 years of service meant it would be an easy transition, but I learned very quickly that a lot of employers don't understand service members. They don't equate our experience as real work experience. Salaries are not matching the jobs and too many other things.

50

As expected

Moved faster than I thought and required some juggling but I handled it.

51

More difficult

I transitioned to a new location after working in two different jobs over a 3 year period. Their seems to be no incentive for companies to hire more senior people especially when making a major career change. I also had a limited network because of the move. The applications I did online rarely got a response back. Interviews were limited. Ended up taking a job at xyz company to get busy, get experience and to show that I am willing to take an lower level position with the potential to grow into more responsibility.

52

Easier

I had a 2nd time when it was necessary to move on to a more amiable environment....that was more difficult for me, because I experienced illness and homelessness for about a year. Currently, I'm a volunteer and I'm okay with this for now. I don't think there's shame in this, just needed help that money or credit couldn't fix.

53

More difficult

The job market is terrible as there are more people looking for work than good full-time paying jobs.

54

More difficult

I lost friends, status and a sense of purpose. One employer (company name removed) actually asked if I had any real skills because all I had ever done was serve my country.

55

More difficult

I thought I'd get out, get some training with my go benefits then work full time.

56

Easier

I did an internship on block leave from deployment a year before getting out and kept in touch with my current company

57

Easier

Wasn't that hard

58

More difficult

Military serve was not a significant factor to employers hiring me for a position. Having a degree before getting out the military can be very helpful.

59

As expected

Excellence is rewarded. Good workers are recognized and rewarded.

Military is recognized as leaders at all levels.

60

As expected

I expected it to be hard and it was

61

As expected

Stressful but rewarding

62

More difficult

My unit made it hard. I had to balance doing requirements to get out and what they wanted

63

As expected

No real problems

64

As expected

You need to put full effort during your transition.

65

More difficult

You have to set your expectations. I was a senior non-commissioned officer, had a masters degree, had a PMP certification and thought my god getting the next job is going to be easy...it wasn't.

66

More difficult

Since everyone kept telling me that as a reservist I would slip right back into my life, I believed them. Two months into being back at work I found myself having chest pains as my work conditions were so deplorable that I found it more stressful than being in a combat zone. Knowing that there was more to life and the world, I ended up having to quit that job.

67

More difficult

Well the military tells you are a wanted employee, civilian sector pays more ect. Well I found none of this to be true!

68

More difficult

Given my experiences, skills, and civilian education (all fully transferable and coveted by multiple industries), my transition should not have been as difficult as it was. I certainly didn't have unreasonable needs.

69

As expected

Just getting used to the lack of structure

70

Easier

I did the same thing as I did while I was in the Army

71

More difficult

My last unit made everything I had to do upon medically boarding out extremely difficult which put me behind on what I needed to do to get ready for civilian life.

72

More difficult

USAJOBS.gov is a joke. The "hiring of Veteran" political line is a joke! None of the Agencies in (city name removed) will open vacancies to VEOA or outside of their agency. When they did open their vacancies, I made 95% referral list and 80% interviews but was 100% told I am over qualified by younger interviewers.

73

As expected

I had a place to live and I applied for and received financial aid and the GI bill to continue my education. That made transitioning easier because I entered the job market with my fellow students.

74

As expected

It was just different!

75

As expected

I knew it would be hard, that I needed to have a plan and work the plan, stay positive and be patient

76

More difficult

Very difficult. Got a civilian "head hunter" and credit her with getting me into a position I wanted.

77

More difficult

I think that the difficulty of transition isn't easily placed upon one issue. Bare in mind that you are transitioning your lifestyle, often times your location, your salary, your work, even what you wear from day to day. If you think that it's going to be easy to hang up your hat and jump into the corporate world... think again. But nothing we do in the military is considered "easy," so don't sweat it too much. Just go into the transition with the expectation that nothing in life is a cakewalk. You'll succeed, it'll just be a rocky road from time to time.

78

More difficult

Didn't understand what employers were looking for in military members.

79

More difficult

Well it was hard to find a good company that wanted to utilize the skills you learned in the military. you run in to prejudice company's that truly are scared to hire veterans. I don't see it as prevelant now as I did in 2012, but the public mood swings over years.

80

More difficult

I applied to 306 positions and got one solid offer, which I took out of desperation.

81

More difficult

I was given a new role - hourly versus salary and a junior person with less qualifications and no college was placed into a higher role that was created for him. He was not military. The ESGR was not helpful because they let me keep the salary I had earned. I soon left the company for a better opportunity.

82

As expected

I had been working part-time in the organization I transitioned to so making the adjustment to full-time was not difficult.

83

As expected

I was forewarned by others who had separated.

84

More difficult

I have 2 part time jobs and I am a full time student with three children

85

As expected

It was about what I expected. New city without a large military sector.

86

As expected

I believe because of the time limit and support I was given, I was fortunate to maximize the knowledge I acquired from the mandatory and supplemental seminars I received.

87

More difficult

- We were coming from OCONUS and retiring at the same time. The transition was focused on the retirement/exit from the military, not so much on the follow-on job prep.

88

More difficult

Having worked at the executive level and in fields with a lot of corporate and civil governmental applicability I was told that I would have a short/smooth transition. Thank goodness I saved 90 days leave for my transition effort (SELRES members don't get transition leave) because I needed everyone one of those days and my UTA drill checks during my transition. The Federal Government not extending Veteran Preferences to Field Grade Officers compounded the job search as well.

89

More difficult

I thought having the title of "jack of all trades" recruiters would be fighting for me. Later I learned that they want a "Master of One".

90

As expected

Luckily for me, I was a hot commodity because I was a newly retired SM with an active security clearance looking for work in a highly technical intelligence discipline, so I was ready for hire and a tax break to the company. Now that the newness of both has worn off and I'm out of work, I'm no different than any other schlep out there whose clearance is on borrowed time and no other acquired skills at present to transition something else.

91

More difficult

The ACAP program is not realistic and does not prepare you for anything; it was merely check the box so everyone who attended could get their out-processing papers signed to retire/ETS

92

Easier

I could have been better prepared for the job interview questions. I found myself having to quickly answer questions about things I had not considered. I got the job. It was a temporary position.

93

More difficult

I was really unsure what it meant to be a civilian I had been in for 6 years. Nothing made sense.

94

More difficult

How ignorant the public was to understanding the military.

95

As expected

Having built up my network prior to my enlistment, I knew it wouldn't be very difficult for me to obtain a position where I would fit in, make good money, and be content. It also helps that I planned on using my GI Bill when I ETS'd, and did so before applying for any jobs.

96

More difficult

I thought I could could work part time but my retirement pay was not enough to sustain my family. So I had to look for full time work that payed more money.

97

More difficult

I viewed the way things were done and managed as being consistent with the "sillyvillian" way of doing things. It took time to adjust to not having an SOP and a higher sense of discipline in the workplace.

98

More difficult

After 10 years active duty, finally had to hide I was a Veteran.

99

Easier

I thought it would take longer.

100

More difficult

All of my alternate, contingency and emergency plans failed....

101

More difficult

My brother took me in for a couple months before I was called off a waiting list at the University Family Housing for me and my family. I was on military leave of absence from Best Buy, and went back, receiving the same wage than prior to entering military service, with a lateral promotion to more responsibility, no raise, just like going from Specialist to Corporal in the Army.

102

As expected

I was a fortunate recipient of good email networking - you never know who is going to read your resume and say, "I could use/hire this person."

103

More difficult

The truth is, any career military person will continue to transition long after they have landed that first, second, or third job. It doesn't stop! You have to deal with it and rebrand yourself in order to survive.

104

More difficult

I spent too much time working on resume/LinkedIn until I hired a professional that focused my efforts on key elements and requirements to increase opportunities.

105

More difficult

I was ill prepared for finding employment. When I entered the military, the job market was fairly good. By the time I ets'd, the job market was dead. The places I applied to either said I wasn't qualified at all or over qualified for the position I applied for. No one understood I needed a job in order to eat and have a place to live.

106

More difficult

I had a plan and some money saved, but I still panicked a little. I felt a little lost because I had a mission and a focus everyday when I was in. My life slowed down drastically after getting out. I felt a little useless for a short time.

107

As expected

I knew I would struggle because I left the military without a working generic resume

108

More difficult

I thought the transition would be a lot easier. Having worked several years before joining the military you filled out application no resumes. I thought being in the military with all this knowledge and skills that you now have it would be easy to qualify for supervisor/ manager positions but you have to be able to show this in writing.

109

As expected

I put out about 50 resumes and only received two interviews.

110

Easier

I started working during my Terminal Leave, so I was glad to have a job before I was officially retired.

111

As expected

I researched educational and job opportunities prior to leaving the military with the help of friends, family, the VA and various job search agencies.

112

More difficult

I didn't have the proper tools to transition and that made it EXTREMELY difficult.

113

More difficult

Nothing went as expected.

114

As expected

The mental transition from having to do things to wanting to do things, such as maintaining fitness, haircuts, etc.

115

Easier

The amount of preparation directly correlated with the ease of my transition.

116

More difficult

I thought that with my training and years of experience that I would be a highly desirable candidate. Then sequester happened and federal positions went on hold for extended periods of time.

117

More difficult

My biggest adjustment was level of responsibility. As a senior service member I was involved in strategic activity and my voice and opinion mattered. In the civilian world, the expectation was to do my job and my input was normally not solicited or desired. It took a while to grow in to my new roles and skin.The more you identify yourself by the uniform and the job, the harder the transition is.

118

More difficult

Use to working with Soldiers and working with civilians was very different. For example in the Army, we work until the mission is complete. Civilians work until 5 pm.

119

As expected

I had plenty of terminal leave built up to ease the transition pain

120

More difficult

I expected to fairly easily land a job as a helicopter test pilot, but when the transition actually came, there were just not openings. Eventually I did get on as a senior technical analyst with a support contractor supporting Army aviation, and got back into my field, but my first job was actually as an operations manager at a printing plant, and the salary even with my retired pay, was not up to what I had been earning in the Army. None of the job leads from the transition databases led to anything, I replied to multiple newspaper ads before finding any kind of job.

121

More difficult

I did not receive any help at all. I had a seven month old child and an eleven year old at the time. My wife was scare, I was scared and there wasn't any help. I went to the local workforce office and was told that I could not even file for unemployment because of separation pay. I did not know that I should have filed a VA disability claim until three years after separation.

122

More difficult

I had a difficult time getting my resume to align with some of the jobs I had interest in in the civilian sector.

123

More difficult

I had no home or family to come back to, which was a lot of it.

124

As expected

It was exactly as I planned it, maybe even easier.

125

More difficult

Not a lot of helicopter jobs out there in the civilian world so I had to find something in the safety area since I was fortunate to have a safety background which the civilian world could understand and appreciate.

126

As expected

It was exactly as I planned it, maybe even easier.

127

More difficult

The bureaucracy of getting out, finding the right answers, really slowed down my ability to look for potential job opportunities

128

More difficult

All the experience bs

129

More difficult

Being separated with severance pay nobody knew what to do or the benefits that came with it.

130

More difficult

Misperception. I thought with my experience and resume, companies would flock to me. Wrong.

131

Easier

I got a job offer about two months before I signed out on terminal leave. By putting in the work I was able to benefit on the back end.

132

More difficult

I expected based on rank and experience I would be hired as a supervisor or manager. However the location I relocated to wasn't veteran friendly. I had a degree but no civilian experience.

133

More difficult

I wasn't ready emotionally or mentally, I didn't prepare far enough out prior to retiring.

134

More difficult

i had no idea what to do; the job transition companies back in those days were focused on receiving commissions for placing us; gave us zero training or orientation or assistance

135

As expected

After a 27 month medical board, then serving as cadre in a Warrior Transition Battalion, and gave myself 15 months to transition. I was well equipped for transitioning.

136

Easier

My transition was fairly easy but I belieeve that is because I appropriately prepared myself. When you leave the military you completely lose the support mechanism you have when you PCS. There is no sponsorship, advanced pay/relocation pay to help with security deposits, new household items, etc.

137

As expected

I had to put in a lot of time but I was reassured along the way that what I was facing was typical. I've heard more than once now that it's much easier to find a job when you have a job.

138

More difficult

I didn't think it would be as hard to find a job in Northeast (state) after having successfully served in the Army on Active duty with a good series of evaluations to back up my service.

139

More difficult

Misperceptions. Private sector does not value military experience as advertised. They are incredibly ignorant of what Vets bring to the table.

140

As expected

I had a break in service and had been employed by non military employers and understood that I had to be patient.

141

More difficult

My transition was more difficult, however, because I wanted a career that would allow me to work close to home, it took me longer.

142

As expected

I had a strong plan, good finances in place and assumed I would have to be patient.

143

As expected

It was as expected. I kept close contact with retirees that retired just before I did so I could learn from their experiences. Used my network to predict and adjust my expectations and timeline.

144

As expected

I was in leadership positions in the Army working with enlisted personnel and my first job was in a leadership position working with over the road truck drivers. The roles were very similar and my military leadership training was invaluable.

145

More difficult

I expected it to be easier. You hear stories of officers getting out of the army and making $200k+. That is simply not the reality. Veterans getting out need to realize that they may even take an initial pay cut when they get out. When you get out of the military, you are starting a new career - you'll start at the bottom of your field and need to work your way up.

146

As expected

As an Army brat (second generation mustang) married to a Navy brat, I truly did not encounter major difficulties or roadblocks. I pretty well knew what to expect and what to do.

147

As expected

About what I expected

148

Easier

The civilian pace is much slower than that of the Army. I had to learn how to slow down which is difficult after going 150 mph everyday for over 22 years.

149

More difficult

The culture shift and adaptation took time.

150

As expected

I felt well prepared.

151

As expected

MOS transitioned into a civilian career field (medical)

152

More difficult

ACAP had filled us with false information on hiring expectations at that time 2004.

153

More difficult

I had to adjust back to a civilian workforce that said they supported the military, but really didn't. I was an attorney, and lost many of my clients due to my military service

154

More difficult

I had 22 years in thee army and that didn't seem to matter to people.

155

More difficult

Took longer than expected

156

More difficult

I struggled to find a career that seemed purposeful. I let that keep me from having a job for slightly over a year upon getting out. Because of that I wasted all of my saving. Plan ahead and work your plan.

157

More difficult

I received no help at all. You too are totally on your own. Transition help is nothing more than a band aid for a bullet hole. America needs a culture change. Until wounded warriors are protected, no service member has a chance.

158

Easier

I as a SGM who was scooped up by the government for job developing combat equipment before I retired. I started working before I was technically out of the military. I got lucky due to my rank and technical skills and being seen by the right person.

159

As expected

level of bureaucracy and redundancy

160

More difficult

I went back to my previous job, but left a year later. I was under-employed and often in classes for the next two years.

161

As expected

I was ready to take a year off between the military and civilian career. So I wasn't looking this job was offered from networking.

162

More difficult

No jobs that pay well enough. If you can't afford to maintain your previous lifestyle everything starts to decline. Living situation, mental health, everything.

163

Easier

Due to response/feedback from my online resume (created with assistance from ACAP); I was recruited for my current career field while on transitional leave.

164

More difficult

Even though I am working in the same field, the requirements in the private sector vs the government are different. I was unaware that the military was exempt from numerous laws.

165

More difficult

There was no post deployment support, occupational, psychological or otherwise.

166

More difficult

It's really hard to walk in with a high level of professionalism and start at the bottom again with a group of childish adults.

167

More difficult

It was the recessiion, and I was in a small town. I was just finishing school.

168

As expected

I applied for about 80 jobs, but the only one I got a callback for was one which I personally handed in my resume. I got lucky.

169

More difficult

I thought with my experience and knowledge that I would get a good paying job right out of the gate and that people would value my service but that was all just false hopes so the process was really depressing.

170

More difficult

Was not prepared for no one to actually care that I was a Veteran. Didn't seem to matter when applying for jobs.

171

As expected

I found a part time job that fit with my school schedule. I was a full time student.

172

More difficult

Kicked out fast, was never actually given a plan as most soldiers are. I didn't even have a dollar to my name or a way home.

173

As expected

I was lucky to get into a good school so I could continue my education. Even with all of the resources of the school available, if you don't treat it like your new "full time job", they can only do so much for you. Knowing roughly what you want is the first step, and you need to get that out of the way before you're likely to have much success with later steps.

174

More difficult

Civilians run things differently.

175

More difficult

My chain of command (name removed) decided they would do anything they could to mess with my efforts to transition properly.

176

More difficult

I signed my dd214, and it was pretty much, here ya go, Civi life.

177

More difficult

I come from a small town with almost zero opportunities so when I separated I had nowhere to go but back to that town. I was also 18 when I joined and separated when I was 22 so employers didn't take me seriously since I was so young.

178

As expected

Lots of variables popped up throughout the experience that hadnt been planned for, so while expected they were an issue.

179

More difficult

Every day is a kick in the balls!!! I have earned both a bachelors and masters degree while I was on active duty. I though I'd be in a decent paying job a few months after I retired. I just hit 7 months and I've had only 4 interview with no job offers. I can't even count how many jobs I applied to.

180

More difficult

Nothing worked and the job I have is less than ideal

181

More difficult

My biggest wake up call was the salary I expected and the salary I started with at my first employer. The resume process was difficult to decipher, but not impossible.

182

As expected

I was skepticle but optimistic about the VAs BDD claims. They let me down.

183

More difficult

Transition from the military is a full time job that you have to do part time while still serving. Consider yourself to be in business for yourself.

There are no check list. There is no singularly right answer. You are creating this personal journey as you are traveling it.

It can be stressful, but is sure to be exciting with new opportunities IF you are open to new possibilities!

184

More difficult

I was on the temporary disability retirement list early in my career and found companies wanted me for my military experience. Years later as a retiree I thought I'd experience the same. Instead, most organizations didn't understand the value I would bring to them. It's important to understand I did not want to work for a government contractor so I looked at companies who didn't hire as many veterans.

185

More difficult

I would say the biggest difficulty was the time I allowed for the transition process. I waited to the last minute, partially due to deployment, but this has made everything almost like I was in emergency mode. I had to prioritize the many aspects of the transition process with employment often taking the back seat. I relied on my success in the service will carry over into the civilian workplace.

186

As expected

I had no real expectations, so the transition was what it was.

187

As expected

It is more the timing. I would have loved to have landed a job back in 2014 after my deployment. However, it never seems to be the case with the reserves. Always a few more opportunities for short-term orders. This is not very attractive to present to a new employer "oh by the way, I have to miss work because of orders".

188

More difficult

I think I overestimated how much my military skills would be valued and underestimated how unimaginative HR people and hiring managers are.

189

More difficult

I couldn't fill out a federal application at the time That was on paper but there was someone at the unemployment office that was very helpful

190

More difficult

I have filled out over 100 application and have a very good resume. I fill out at lease 3 application per day on average with over 20 years experience in team management I thought I would find a job with in 2 1/2 months near some fairly large cities near my residents

191

More difficult

I thought it was going to be easy, and i thought it was not going to be psychologically complicated. It was very complicated

192

As expected

I had thought about this for a long time before pulling the pin. The hardest part for me personally was actually deciding "it's time to go" and the mental crossover of "If I'm not a Soldier anymore, what am I?" That will be different for everyone. I chose to remain associated with the Army because I love being around Soldiers; I have plenty of friends who immediately said 'I want nothing to do with the institution' and sought greener pastures elsewhere.

193

As expected

I planned early for my transition from military to college. I did not experience anything unexpected.

194

More difficult

The competition for good paying jobs is significant. It's tough to compete against experienced/networked workers who have the industry specific skills and experience. Employers do not have to take a risk and hire veterans, so they generally don't.

195

As expected

I retired, didnt seek employment.

196

More difficult

Civilian environment largely not familiar with military skill sets or the value of their experience in terms of management and leadership skills.

197

More difficult

I thought that my credentials and the success that I have earned in the military would be easily transferable to the civilian workforce. I thought civilians would understand the versatility and flexibility inherent in the officer corps of the military. The USA jobs racket is the best example of barriers to entry for the person looking for an opportunity closely aligned with what they did on active duty. I thought that service mattered...what really matters is who remembers you and who is in a position to help you land your first job.

198

More difficult

The corporate world isn't structured like the military. They don't want people to move in and out of positions all the time, so I've found most companies don't have a good onboarding process, especially for veterans. You really need to manage yourself in the civilian world. Most bosses today don't go out of the way for you to be successful like in the military.

199

More difficult

No help, struggled with PTSD...

200

More difficult

The large cut in pay, poor benefits with large out of pocket expenses made it extremely difficult on me and my family.

201

More difficult

There are so many aspects of civilian life that are by experience only. Articles regarding dealing with types of leadership and toxic environments have been very helpful in navigating the civilian workforce dynamic.

202

More difficult

First job was easy to land as a DoD contractor, but transition to true private sector was extremely difficult

203

More difficult

Transitioned during a recession from a location not conducive to great networking opportunities. The lie that the civilian sector will be knocking down doors to hire you was a lie.

204

As expected

I thought it was going to be a challenge and that I would have to prove my worth, and that was the case. I took a job that allowed me to go to school, and the starting pay was less than I might have gotten elsewhere, but getting my degree was more important than the short term financial gain of going somewhere else.

205

More difficult

Very, very stressful

206

As expected

I did my homework and was accepted to graduate school before I separated.

207

More difficult

I was surprised how few people appreciated the life experience I had from.the military especially in comparison to my peers and being in the guard the fear of redeployment scared many away.

208

As expected

I transitioned out once before. This time was much better because I know that I have a retirement paycheck which makes life much less stressful.

209

Easier

It turned out infinitely better than I ever could have hoped for. I have never been happier.

210

Easier

Not difficult at all.

211

More difficult

Simple. I went from being employed, deeply engaged in important work I enjoyed to being unemployed. I hated my unemployment circumstances and would constantly re-do my resume and try to think of what else I could do to get a job. I retired in September 2013, the next day the government shut down. A bit of an omen, as it turned out. One day I just realized I would likely just have to accept being retired. Not at all happy about it but I keep myself fairly busy helping out family and friends. Would much rather be working. Still considering going back to school and doing something entirely different but have no interest in anything particular yet.

212

More difficult

Probable over qualification for numerous positions, probable age discrimination in some instances, challenges in establishing networks beyond the uniform.

213

More difficult

I thought there would be more jobs available.

214

Easier

I had used my GI bill to take continuing education courses specific to the career field I was interested in. While still on active duty.

215

Easier

I had a career (not job) ready upon military retirement. I was with that company 5 years, vested, then moved on!

216

Easier

I was a career counselor in the Army working in transition assistance program and am now a LVER with the state

217

More difficult

Transitioning from the Army to civilian life is hard because 1) I had to learn to talk about common military activities with more than detail and in a way they could understand. 2) Despite 20 years of leadership experience in a wide variety of job activities civilians look for supervisors that have more specific experience related to the work activities.

218

More difficult

I thought with my experience and education, job offers would be coming out of the wood work.

219

More difficult

My difficulty, was probably my own fault. I changed locations 3 times.

220

Easier

I listened to my TAP instructors. They pointed me in the right direction.

221

As expected

I anticipated the level of change and inner struggles that would transpire.

222

As expected

I work for me

223

More difficult

More of an organizational culture challenge than expected.

224

More difficult

It was difficult because I had no clue just how much help was actually available to me

225

More difficult

There was no blue print how to move up the rank and file like in the military

226

More difficult

Even today, I have problems with the ways other businesses conduct their business. It's a certain way in the military and that's how you do it.

227

More difficult

Given my medical issues and a highly competitive job market, I found it very difficult to get employment that allowed me to have an income above the poverty line, let alone live as comfortably as when I was in the military. I am still underemployed, and I still run into problems with meeting expectations where employers know that there are 10 people who are waiting in line to replace workers.

228

More difficult

I was not prepared for the mechanics of online job post best practices.

229

More difficult

Aside from working directly for the Army upon immediate separation, when I decided to relocate entirely away from military installations and seek employment, it took nearly two years to find a career-oriented job.

230

More difficult

I have applied for govt positions and private sector positions. I am over qualified for the GS jobs and I am under qualified for the private sector positions. I would add that civilian firms look for certifications and do not care about military classes.

231

Easier

I was lucky to get my first job because things aligned very well and I wanted to work in Washington, DC.

232

As expected

I expected it to be difficult. I was used to living on someone else's schedule and for every action on the job to have potentially large implications for a lot of people. Being a full-time student is exactly the opposite. You have to be 100% self-directed and your decisions affect only you (and yours). Without mandatory PT my physical condition rapidly deteriorated and once it did I had little incentive to do anything (for more than a decade after separation).

233

As expected

The hardest thing was getting the right definition of my military job skills to match my civilian work jobs.

234

As expected

I knew the transition was going to be a challenge and planned accordingly. I did not allow the process to discourage me and was confident in my capabilities. Also, I had planned far enough in advance so that money was not a forcing factor.

235

More difficult

Nothing was as expected as had been conveyed by the TAP.

236

As expected

My transition was unexpected--a family illness resulted in a Hardship Discharge.

237

As expected

As a Reservist, I already had knowledge of the civilian workplace.

238

More difficult

I had little help and didn't know how to find a job that translated from the military to civilian life

239

As expected

First time it was about what I expected. However, the next two times following a call to active duty from the Reserves, it got steadily more difficult.

240

As expected

Young and new to the workforce I expected to have to start at an entry level. The job I wanted required attending an academy much like basic training.

241

As expected

When I left the military, I enrolled into college to finish my BS degree in Aeronautics, graduated Dec 1985.

242

More difficult

When I completed my one year mobilization and eventually retired there was no career transition course to go to. I had been applying for employment almost a year before I retired with response from companies. I was only able to obtain employment through my former employer in a different position.

243

As expected

it took about 3 months of frantic desperation and then i had a good job.

244

More difficult

I was told that I had the experience but not enough education. So I went back to school and now I'm being told that I'm over qualified for jobs that fit my qualifications and even some that I thought I wasn't qualified for.

245

More difficult

I have been applying to jobs science I came back from duty, and I never get a chance. I recognize that in some cases I didn't fulfill the requirements but in the most I can be referred. Are the points for being a Veteran for real?

246

More difficult

I still don't feel transitioned after 22yrs, I feel stuck in a rut

247

More difficult

The culture and lack of focus

248

More difficult

My transition to the civilian workforce took a lot longer than I had expected. My first offer I received was for a position that was well below my capabilities, however this led to a better position. I have had difficulties in finding meaningful work in (city, TX). Although I am very qualified by experience, I only have an Associate's Degree which has left me

249

Easier

I was in the administrative field in the Army and I was able to obtain full-time employment with my skills. Also, I drop out of college before going into the active duty Army. After being out of the Army for six years, I went back to college and obtain a bachelor's degree which was quite essential in obtaining more job options.

250

More difficult

I was trying to get into pharmaceuticals

251

More difficult

my resume did not translate well. I sounded like I had a much less important job than I actually performed in the army.

252

As expected

I had pre-planned and had a game-plan and it worked. Plan the work...and work the plan.

253

More difficult

The requirements are very high, and you have to do more work for less pay with minimal benefits.

254

More difficult

No real assistance for senior personnel. HRs and civilian employers do not attempt to understand military experience, knowledge, and skills compared to civilian counterparts. For example, using the term Program Manager to describe military positions can be a problem since the position is not actually called a Program Manager, but is a Commander, Executive, or Operations Officer. Skills utilized and gained in the military which are equivalent to Program Managers do not translate to PM positions or to PMP certification / expereince. Finally, civilian organizations: 1) All About Money! and making more Money!; 2) About how you can benefit them; 3) Don't understand the military - most have never served; and 4) Really don't care if you are a veteran; how much time you served in combat; or how much you did in the military.

255

As expected

I figured that the most difficult part would be connecting with companies and I was right.

256

More difficult

Difficulty translating skills to civilian world and sling employers on abilities

257

More difficult

Thought I'd have work faster

258

More difficult

Honestly I had no idea what the transition would be like I was very young the first time I got out of the service and basically floundered as a civilian. I returned to the military, gained different skills and experience, and my second transition went much smoother.

259

More difficult

At the time it was expected that companies were eager to hire vets. They weren't hiring anyone at the time and vets preference didn't matter.

260

More difficult

Not really a difficulty but an uncertainty.

261

Easier

Began transitioning a year out from my retirement.

262

Easier

I prepared, I researched and I have been looking forward to leaving the military

263

Easier

I was married and my husband was also a veteran and we were attending the same college. I was also working full time while attending school full time. No time to worry about not fitting in.

264

More difficult

Expected hiring managers to respect and want my military experience. This was rarely the case.

265

Easier

I had a member of my network reach out to hire me before I announced my retirement.

266

As expected

I knew that transition would be a "process" and I firmly believe that beginning this process about a year out benefitted me greatly and provided timely options in making my final decision(s). I learned multiple valuable lessons that I still use today.

267

Easier

I managed to secure a job over a month before my transition leave started and was on transition leave for a month after I started working.

268

As expected

I didnt have any expectations. I went to school for a one year certification and was hired before I graduated.

269

More difficult

Eviction, unemployment, substance abuse, stress

270

More difficult

lack of information

271

More difficult

It is harder to leave military service and become a successful civilian than it is to join the military and become a successful servicemember. I don't know anyone who's doing better out of the military.

272

More difficult

Combat Engineer equates to construction laborer. And not many places are looking for guys with explosives handling in the civillian market that i have seen. To go with that i would end up shelling out nearly $3500 in order to get all the licenses required for my home state.

273

More difficult

As a medic, I learned amazing skills and had a great education. When I transitioned, the only thing I had to offer to an employer with a basic EMT certification. In the civilian world, basic EMTs make an excellent volunteers, but has no real use in any full-time employment

274

Easier

I took the first job offered because I was afraid of having no job

275

More difficult

The job market can be very difficult, especially for senior leaders leaving government service or defense contracting industries

276

Easier

The only complaint I have with my transition is the CIF, equipment turn-in portion. The civilians weren't very helpful, in fact, they were the hardest part of my transition. They would look at a clean, new item, and kick it back. I was told on several occasions that I wouldn't be able to clear them in one day. I took that to mean that they would make sure I couldn't. Then when that was about to happen, I went through the turn-in process again that same day and finally cleared everything.

277

As expected

It was very *easy* to transition from a very busy and important assignment into absolutely *zero* workforce responsibilities.

278

Easier

I didn't know what to expect.

279

As expected

First year was hard and thought about getting back in.

280

Easier

I went to work for (company) in the Defense sector. They already had a strong military transition/new hire program and extensive prior military employee base. So, there was always someone I could talk to who had already "done that" or "seen it" before me.

281

More difficult

I had no plan, no assistance from anyone who knew about these types of things and no idea where to go or what to do.

282

More difficult

I didn't realize how the communication styles differed.

283

More difficult

with no transition help it was very difficult to translate my training into civilian terms to help find a job that was best matched to my skills, it took a very long time to find a job which I was very over qualified for below standard pay. It was also hard to find an employer that wanted to hire a Vet returning from combat.

284

More difficult

Of all the difficult things I had to do in my life including going to war, the most difficult thing I have ever done was transition to the civilian life. In fact, I think we never really fully transition into civilian life.

285

As expected

I took two months to prepare to enter the civilian work force. I decompressed from the Army and allowed myself time to get things right.

286

Easier

NO

287

As expected

Soldiers, particularly men, don't talk about their emotions. Emotionally, separation from the military, and reintegration into civilian life after working in a combat zone, is difficult. The world is very different and the expectations of those around you are different. You need someone to talk with about your emotions, preferably someone you trust and who has been in a similar situation.

288

Easier

I took a job in a career field that I had not been trained in. But common sense & military experience enabled me to adapt very easily.

289

As expected

My first job was in Houston, TX. A conservative community that valued my military experience. I could be myself and they didn't have any problems with it.

290

More difficult

I became very depressed. I was always on the go in the military and finally my world stopped. It was very hard to adjust to the civilian culture as opposed to the military culture. I no longer had the support systems I was used to. I was moving and doing things on my own as opposed to with a squad or platoon. I did not expect to be affected by this.

291

More difficult

Getting out, I was dead set on honesty and respect. It's all a show, you have to make the interviewer remember you, and be more impressed by you than the other guy.

292

More difficult

There was no one stop shop to get assistance with finding a job that matched your skills. You were on your own.

293

More difficult

I thought civilian managers would understand my being a veteran with comparable skills, discipline, education. My serving my country would be an indicator of reliability and dedication. Not so.

294

More difficult

I came from a military family and had no positive experiences or role models for such a transition. Many of my college classmates who did not go into the military were themselves experiencing corporate downsizing. Many new college and HS graduates (read that as cheap labor) were also on the market looking for jobs.
Factories usually are closing in such an economic environment.

295

As expected

I knew there were lots of opportunities for a new career.

296

As expected

It was what i expected. You have to do your homework, you have to spend time learning about the company and applying for jobs and times not hearing anything. I am not saying it was smooth as butter but it was what i expected it to be. I had realistic expectations.

297

More difficult

My employers didn't recognize your skills or past experiences. You are not valued and are just someone else. Your skills and experience intimidate other employees especially management.

298

As expected

I was informed that, "You have to work to find employment". Treat the job search as if it were a job.

299

More difficult

I thought the real world wanted leaders, they do but not from the military we scare them and they can't relate our experience to their needs.

300

More difficult

After a year, still unemployed.

301

More difficult

When I retired I did not know myself; I knew how to be a good Army officer and how to get things done, however I did not recognize my inherent strengths, likes and dislikes. I worked with a leadership coach and this became clearer, however it has been an ongoing process of trying new things.

302

As expected

I was in the National Guard so transitioning for me was not as difficult because I was more accustomed to civilian lifestyle.

303

As expected

It takes work - you get what you put into it. You have to do work on your own - you already have the skills so put 'em to use. The transition team talked about me - the service member and little about the spouse - this is just as crucial.

304

More difficult

The length of time to transfer my security clearance prevented me from accepting a higher-paying job. I was ill prepared for the slow pace of the civilian workforce.

305

As expected

It was about what I expected, meaning stressful and challenging, but not impossible. Once you get close enough to your ETS, your command stops caring about you so much as you're seen as "on the way out" and they'd rather spend time on the soldiers that are "choosing to dedicate their career to the military", so don't expect a lot of support/empathy.

306

Easier

since my military time was weekends and 2 weeks in the summer, transition was easy.

307

More difficult

Went to work for local law enforcement; Policies and procedures too gray; Expectations and communication not clear, or consistent. Stayed less than 6 months.

308

More difficult

Didn't know what to expect and had no preparation.

309

More difficult

I was not prepared for the lack of feedback with applications.

310

As expected

I knew the field I was going into and as a reservist had experience transitioning from active duty to civilian world.

311

More difficult

It's taking more time than I expected, and I started over a year ago

312

More difficult

Well, I don't have a job after 7 months....

313

More difficult

Structure military to civilian more of a change than I thought

314

More difficult

It took a very long time to acquire the skills I needed to do my job well and justify my position and pay.

315

More difficult

The job search was much more difficult than expected and took much longer.

316

As expected

Its going to be hard no matter what.

317

As expected

I work directly on the military installation I had previously work at. So I was familiar with the area the mission. Therefore, I felt like I have not left the military. I still support the mission.

318

More difficult

I used my transition days, once I was done with the TAP classes, each day, to hit up as many job locations and web sites as were available. They were all, every last one of them, useless.

319

More difficult

Being involuntarily separated made me very resentful of my new reality. Even now, over a year since my last day on active duty, I am still bitter and resentful. But if I was called tomorrow to return to AD, I would do it in a heartbeat.

320

More difficult

The initial year after getting out was very difficult. I had lost something in my life that a portion of me believed was the only way to exist.

321

More difficult

You don't know what you don't know. It certainly was not as quick or easy as others told me it would be.

322

More difficult

I expected to receive a job as a supervisor or manager with a degree and experience I had. Found out not having any civilian experience in the field was detrimental to that level of success.

323

More difficult

The retirement process from the Army is complex and I feel, somewhat "rushed" for someone unfamiliar with the process .As a result, we often don't fully understand what we are doing and those charged with helping us assume we know more than we do because they have been doing it so long.

324

More difficult

The ability to quickly find a job in the region once the Army moved me 1500 miles.

325

As expected

No one told me shit about the transition!

326

More difficult

Civilians do not understand either the competence or the degree of responsibility that the military accepts and executes.

327

As expected

I had received plenty of input from co-workers that helped inform my expectations. Had I relied solely on what was set in the transition class I would have likely never left the Army. Its almost like a scared straight program.

328

More difficult

Nothing went as planned.

329

As expected

There were challenges and things that were easier. I never could have planned it all, but it was about what I expected.

330

More difficult

In my case it is very difficult because of my health problem that i got during my military days. I got surgeries so i have limited scope about jobs that i want to apply or get.

331

As expected

Somewhat difficult

332

As expected

Transitioning is not very hard. However it is very confusing about what the steps are until you are clearing.

333

As expected

No difficulties, went as expected.

334

More difficult

I didnt gain enough experience to hold a job in the career field of my choice.

335

Easier

It wasnt hard at all

336

More difficult

Went back to school then didn't want to do the operational things that military people are frequently lumped into.

337

More difficult

For instance, my MOS was, at the time, 36M, tactical Switching systems operator. In theory, I SHOULD have been able to get hired at the phone company. But instead I got a job as a receptionist at a construction company.

338

Easier

I already retired from the federal government service due to the same medical reasons as the military throwing me away!

339

As expected

Already knew what to expect

340

As expected

I was fortunate because of my previous active-duty position I knew the federal organization I was being hired into, plus I knew the mission, location, and personnel of the organization which I used to help lead.

341

More difficult

My goal was to transition into law enforcement prior to getting out. Last year, I simultaneously applied to two agencies (County Sheriff and City PD). I did very well in both and the County was first to offer me a conditional hire. A few weeks later, City PD, calls and they say they wanted to bring me on board. I explain to them the situation about the conditional hire with the County and kindly turned them down. About a month later, I get a letter from County stating that they are removing my name from the hiring process (Which I would later find out it was due to the department going through financial issues). This was hard to take, because I was a month and a half away from starting the academy. This situation caused me to spend close to seven months job searching, living out of my savings, and not generating any income for myself or my family. Have a plan, but expect your plan to change.

342

More difficult

Location I moved to did not support my skill set.

343

More difficult

I expected more commitment to hire me. The separation classes show all the headlines of companies vowing to hire veterans. They leave out the part of them wanting hourly people. They want to hire you on their terms. Keep that in mind.

344

Easier

I did not experience any hurdles.

345

More difficult

Competing as a civilian with a military background is difficult as you are at a disadvantage from the beginning.

346

As expected

It was incredibly difficult, but not in the ways I expected. What was expected was how difficult it was. it was also absolutely worth it, 100%.

347

As expected

I was retiring. I just needed a house to move to.

348

More difficult

I was still waking up for the "watch" and learning how to sleep normally. Getting used to dealing with civilians who had no inkling of basic courtesies and respect was hard.

349

As expected

it was not difficult.

350

Easier

ON THE SCALE OF 1-10 MAYBE A 4.

351

More difficult

Figured I would walk right into the perfect job making the kind of money I was looking for. Turns out in the state of NC, pay is less than many other states.

352

As expected

I returned from Germany back to DC. I hoped to get a job in 3 mos but it took 6 mos. However, I lived with family and also had money saved up, so it wasn't bad. More of an ego bruising that I couldn't get job quickly after being in Europe for 4 yrs.

353

More difficult

I got married a week after I transitioned out of the Army. My husband was still in so I had a good support network. However it was harder than I realized because I kept this feeling that I was leaving behind my brothers and sisters still in the service. FB makes it easier to keep in touch but there are many I will never see again. For those people it really feels like cutting a connection or bond. I know that probably doesn't make sense, logically but it's hard to shake it.

354

Easier

I went from a job in the military to a job in civilian life that was similar, but higher paying.

355

More difficult

I was naive, and didn't think it would be hard to align pay, location and job interests, but it was.

356

As expected

It was stressful, but planning ahead, studying a new career field, and reaching out to other vets in that career field was ESSENTIAL to getting a job 2 weeks after I ETS'd.

357

More difficult

I think it was difficult for me because when I first started looking for jobs in the same career field I had on active duty. Because I did not have the required degree and/or certification, it was extremely difficult even getting interviews.

358

More difficult

It was one of the most difficult struggles of my life.

359

More difficult

I didn't think it would be a difficult as it has been to obtain a job that pays a livable wage.

360

As expected

The first thing I did in my transition was talk to friends that had transitioned in the past couple of years. I listened to their stories, their successes and failures, their advice and their hindsight. By doing that first, I feel like I knew what to expect and I knew where to go. Ultimately, my transition worked out the way I expected it to.

361

Easier

Due to networking capabilities, I was able to land a job. Thank God!

362

More difficult

My expectations were not met and I was disappointed. I had a false sense of preparedness when I completed my transition courses and was not fully ready to apply for jobs or conduct interviews. taking too much time off made me anxious that I was becoming irrelevant.

363

More difficult

Officer and troop leader with combat experience.
Technical degree.
Couldn't get a call or an interview.

364

More difficult

I thought I was more competitive than I was

365

As expected

It's tough but manageable.

366

As expected

Be patient with yourself to adopt back to civilian skills and language always takes a little longer then you first think.

367

Easier

I had made the decision to retire over a year out. I was mentally prepared.

368

More difficult

The Army did not prepare me nor allow me to prepare for my transition.

369

As expected

I got a job that met all my needs

370

As expected

I had a plan, so the transition program only provided me with info that was unaware of such as the VA process

371

More difficult

The cultures of the military and civilian world especially in the areas of values, needs and approach were far more divergent than I expected.

372

As expected

For me it was more of a cultural transition back into society. When you come from such a close group of a platoon or company and transition into a new civilian job where no one cares about their job or if you show up not its a big change.

373

More difficult

There is a complete mis-understanding between military and civilian professionals. Civilians don't understand or value military experience. They are more capable but the veteran must also understand how to explain their strengths in language they understand. If not, it will be tough.