Transitioning from a military career can be a positive but significant challenge, especially for those who’ve served for many years. It’s a big shift in identity. No more morning shaves, short haircuts or searching for my boots and Common Access Card (CAC), a necessity for base access and government computer logins. One day, you wake up and it’s all over. When that moment came for me, I asked myself, “What’s next?”
Like many who have come before and after me, I had a solid plan: Take a year off, start my own business and take it easy. However, my plan was swiftly derailed when my wife was diagnosed with cancer shortly after my retirement, changing everything. I quickly became her primary caregiver. This diagnosis dramatically altered our lives and our way of thinking, as it reminded us that nothing is promised. During this transition period and amidst the bad news, I needed an outlet for my thoughts. Yet, I wanted to use my time wisely – for personal gratification, self-improvement and to prepare myself if I needed to return to work for insurance purposes.
I had a lightbulb moment – why not take college classes? I conducted an extensive search for the right institution, and let me tell you, there are so many options that it can be overwhelming. I considered program flexibility, institutional reputation and support services available for veterans. After some consideration, I discovered American College of Education and, as of this writing, I’ve just completed my 24th class.
About 12 months before leaving the military, when I began the transition process to civilian life. my initial step was participating in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP). Through TAP, I learned that the army allows enrollment in career skills programs, so I remotely joined the Microsoft Systems and Software Academy (MSSA), an 18-week paid education program. After completing MSSA, I finished my out-processing.
Reflecting on my experience, I realize that instead of starting with MSSA, I should have jumped right into school. This would have motivated me to complete my degree and better prepare for a post-military career. The military offers various exit plans and timelines to accommodate service members. However, proactive effort during the early transition stages is crucial for crafting a clear path to the next chapter of life.
This academic journey has allowed me to concentrate on the things I can change. For the things I can’t, I’ve been able to invest my time in completing assignments and expanding my knowledge through education. I have fulfilled the requirements for my master’s degree and am looking forward to pursuing a doctoral program, which would be my third program at ACE.
Taking my first class at ACE was a transformative and captivating experience. Discovering the college was crucial to my transition, revealing that there is life beyond the uniform. This journey requires careful planning and strategy, but every step is worthwhile. Embracing this change has opened doors I never imagined, proving that the effort invested in this transition is a gateway to endless possibilities.
Check out the programs at American College of Education and discover your next chapter.
