Q&A: Top Questions Student Veterans Ask About Career Transitions (and the Real Answers)

From the Field to the Civilian Workforce

Transitioning from military service to a civilian career can feel like stepping into uncharted territory. Many student veterans share the same concerns: How do I translate my experience? Should I focus on work or school? How can I network effectively when I'm older than most of my peers?

Here's a Q&A-style guide with practical answers based on common questions from student veterans.

Q: How do I translate my military experience into a civilian résumé?

A: Focus on results, not just duties. Instead of listing titles or ranks, highlight accomplishments like leadership, logistics, problem-solving, and decision-making under pressure. Civilian employers may not recognize military acronyms, but they do understand outcomes.

For example, "led a platoon of 25 soldiers" can be rephrased as "managed a 25-person team to complete high-stakes projects under tight deadlines successfully." Using measurable impact helps employers immediately see your value.

Q: Should I go straight into the workforce or finish my degree first?

A: It depends on your personal mission. Some veterans prioritize gaining hands-on experience and earning income, while others aim for long-term career growth and credentials. A flexible approach, such as combining part-time work or internships with continued education, can give the best of both worlds.

The key is to align your path with your long-term goals rather than following the crowd.

Q: How can I network effectively as a student veteran?

A: Think of networking as building relationships, not just exchanging contacts. Your military experience brings maturity, perspective, and resilience. Share your story authentically, participate in student or professional groups, and connect online with peers and alumni.

Remember: networking is about curiosity, listening, and collaboration, skills you already practice daily.

Q: What's a common mistake student veterans make in career planning?

A: Waiting too long to start exploring career options. Many focus on coursework alone and delay skill-building or networking until graduation is near. Start early: attend workshops, explore internships, and connect with alumni or peer mentors. Taking small steps consistently makes a significant difference over time.

Explore resources such as Military Student Success Coaching and Student Veteran Ambassadors to find guidance and community support.