Posted on Apr 19, 2018
How do other soldiers maintain their bearings in a civilian environment after transitioning?
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So im a young soldier currently just completing my first year in service. Now i already know im only doing 4 years. But im very nervous already just thinking about transition back to being a civilian. i was just curious of what other soldiers did to help them and how do many maintain some of their bearings in such a different environment. I know its very easy to get complacent and dissatached from people after leaving. Anything will help im open to a lot of advice
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Transition
Transition
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 11
SPC (Join to see) You already know that you will serve four years. Decide what you want to do when you transition. Do your research and obtain any training or education that you need. Save your money so that you have money when you get out for an apartment and anything else that you might need. Be a planner, establish a plan, set goals, and then implement your plan.
For example, I knew that I wanted to work for the Space Program, so I did my research. My plan was to drive to the Houston area, get an apartment find a job, and work on my degree, and then go to work for the Space Program. I moved to Pasadena, Texas, found a high paying operator job at a chemical plant, and started school. Five and a half years, later, I had my degree, and started work on the Space Shuttle Program. I stayed until the program ended 33 years later.
I was very busy with work and school, and that helped with my transition by forcing me to be very focused on my goals. The discipline that you obtain in the military will be a big help.
For example, I knew that I wanted to work for the Space Program, so I did my research. My plan was to drive to the Houston area, get an apartment find a job, and work on my degree, and then go to work for the Space Program. I moved to Pasadena, Texas, found a high paying operator job at a chemical plant, and started school. Five and a half years, later, I had my degree, and started work on the Space Shuttle Program. I stayed until the program ended 33 years later.
I was very busy with work and school, and that helped with my transition by forcing me to be very focused on my goals. The discipline that you obtain in the military will be a big help.
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Everyone should have a plan to get out. Think about what you want to do. Look at what you need to do to make you qualified and prepared for that. Go do those things.
Also, network with people in that industry and area you want to work. More important than I reilized before.
Also, network with people in that industry and area you want to work. More important than I reilized before.
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Keep your options open. Some people come in, do their initial service and get out. When I had one year in, I certainly knew I was getting out as soon as possible. Last year I knew I was getting out as soon as possible. Last week I met with a career counselor to discuss a 5 year re-enlistment. Take advantage of Army resources. Use all of your TA and get a degree. Travel and enjoy your time off. Learn from your leaders, your battle buddies, and your subordinates so that you know how to interact with all types of people when you get out. Stay out of trouble. Don't get sucked into doing something stupid that can ruin your honorable service. Contribute to TSP, as much as possible. Do all these things and you will be much better for it at the end of your four years. Finally, keep your options open, don't be afraid to re-enlist if there is more the Army can provide for you or if you are not ready to transition.
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