Advice for getting my life straight for my transition out of the military?

I left active duty 8 years ago after having been in for 8 years. I got laughed at in the transition classes when I told them that I was going to college to become a veterinarian and they told me that I should look into getting a federal job. I got out and had to wait a whole semester before starting school but once I did I lived off of the post 9-11 GI Bill, volunteered at the animal shelter and worked part time at a vet clinic. Now I'm 4 months away from graduating veterinary school. The work load has been insane and times have occasionally been rough financially since the GI Bill only covered my first 4 years of school and becoming a doctor requires 8 years of school. Stay focused on your mission and don't be afraid to share your goals and ask for help even if you occasionally get laughed at. Just telling people what it is that you want to do can open a lot of doors for you because a lot of people are willing to help you network if they see you are in earnest.

I know it is a scary situation leaving the military. First you need to put the motorcycle on Craig's List, I had a very quick response (24 hours) for the sale of my used car. I think if you don't mind working in North Dakota they have lots of jobs in the oil fields. They have no housing but they provide transportation to the job site. The wages are incredible, something you could do to build up not only living costs but also college funds.

I faced some of your challenges as I retired from Active Duty. Your comments didn't mention retirement pension so I assume you are ETSing instead of retiring?

Use your GI Bill as much as possible for training. I, too, obtained my EMT license and it's the best job I've ever had! Here in Tennessee it takes about a year of training and testing to get licensed. Illinois may be different.

I had to take a few jobs I really didn't like to get by while I was in EMT class. Don't be afraid to take a job that pays decently even though you know you won't be staying. Most employers now understand many employees will not be career hires.

Definitely connect with the local VA representative in whatever town you are moving to. They can help put you in touch with career advisers, job fairs, resume classes, or anything else you may need. LinkedIn has some good links for that as well.

Good luck!