If you could write a letter to you, what would you say?

Sgt Aaron Shaw — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 10:20:56 -0400

Having recently transitioned back to the civilian life and currently in a position to assist others with their transition, I would like to hear from those that have also transitioned. If you could write a letter to yourself, knowing what you know now, what would say? What would you change about how you planned and executed your transition?

Response by SFC Josh Billingsley made Mar 21 at 2016 10:23 AM

SFC Josh Billingsley — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 10:23:27 -0400

I would let myself know that the experience would not be as easy or smooth as I assumed, that I should have began preparing almost a year out, not a couple of months. I would tell myself to spend more time networking and less time crafting resumes that would never receive a response. I would also let myself know that although it is not going to be easy, everything will be OK. It just takes perseverance and patience.

Response by PO2 Mark Saffell made Mar 21 at 2016 10:23 AM

PO2 Mark Saffell — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 10:23:38 -0400

Accept the offer to the US Naval Academy or at the very least stay in the Navy till retirement

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2016 10:24 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 10:24:20 -0400

I would have told myself that it wasn't going to last forever and to put some money back. Civilian life comes with a lot of different responsibilities.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Mar 21 at 2016 10:27 AM

SrA Edward Vong — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 10:27:30 -0400

Finish school before you leave the military. It makes the transition 10x easier.

Response by Cpl Jeff N. made Mar 21 at 2016 10:41 AM

Cpl Jeff N. — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 10:41:25 -0400

Even though there was no GI BILL (1980's) money to speak of I would have told myself to get into school right after leaving active duty. I have ended up in a really good spot for the last 28 years but have had to do it the hard way.

At least I was able to pass this insight on to my oldest son who is now using the GI Bill after leaving active duty about a year ago and working full time getting his legs under him. I was able to help him find a decent position that is flexible with his schooling and active reserve status.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Mar 21 at 2016 12:10 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 12:10:28 -0400

Make sure you pick the same wife.

Response by SSG Keith Cashion made Mar 21 at 2016 12:30 PM

SSG Keith Cashion — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 12:30:02 -0400

Remember, that everything you are going to do has consequences that affect your Wife and Children. Bring them into the planning and preparation for the transition. Your biggest supporters are your family.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2016 12:53 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 12:53:24 -0400

Should have accepted the direct commission for Signal in the Reserves back in 2005...

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Mar 21 at 2016 3:10 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 15:10:12 -0400

There will be times when you don't celebrate victory and you lament loss. Sometimes you just exist for the whims of the world.

Response by MAJ Michael Pauling made Mar 22 at 2016 7:49 AM

MAJ Michael Pauling — Tue, 22 Mar 2016 07:49:40 -0400

Don't buy a bunch of crap or a fancy car thinking I earned it, buy an el cheapo car and put as much $ in Investments/REtirement as I can. ...also skip the six pack of Bud Lite and Pepperoni Pizza the night before a PT Test.............