What Happens After Your Military Contract is Up?
-serving in the military can be a life-changing experience. When you enlist, you make a commitment to serve your country for a specific period, usually several years. But what happens once your contract is up and you’re no longer actively serving? In this article, we’ll explore what to expect and what your options are after your military contract is up.
Transitioning to Civilian Life
When your military contract is up, it’s time to transition out of the military and back into civilian life. This process can be challenging, but many service members have successfully made the transition and gone on to thrive in their chosen careers.
Transition Period:
- The average transition period is 9-12 months, although it can vary depending on your individual circumstances.
- During this time, you’ll need to focus on transitioning out of the military and into civilian life, which includes:
- Updating your resume and getting ready for job hunting.
- Applying for Veteran’s benefits, such as education and healthcare.
- Finding a new home and getting settled.
Education and Training:
- Many service members choose to continue their education and pursue a degree or certification.
- The military offers many education benefits, including:
- The GI Bill, which provides financial support for education and training.
- Tuition Assistance, which helps pay for college courses.
- Apprenticeships and job training programs.
Finding a New Career:
- Transitioning to a civilian career can be challenging, but many service members find success in a wide range of fields.
- Your military experience and skills can be valuable in many civilian careers, including:
- Law enforcement and security
- Healthcare and medicine
- Business and finance
- Education and training
Finding a New Home:
- When you transition out of the military, you may need to find a new home.
- Some options to consider include:
- Buying a house or condo
- Renting an apartment or house
- Entering into a shared housing arrangement with other veterans or civilians
Health and Wellness:
- Leaving the military can be a major adjustment, and it’s common to experience stress and anxiety.
- It’s essential to prioritize your mental and physical health during the transition period.
- Your healthcare provider can help you develop a plan to address any health concerns and transition to civilian healthcare.
Benefits and Support:
- As a veteran, you’re eligible for a range of benefits and support services, including:
- Healthcare and medical support
- Education and training benefits
- Job placement and career services
- Counseling and mental health support
Post-Transition Options
Once you’ve transitioned out of the military and back into civilian life, you may have several post-transition options to consider:
Option 1: Join the Reserves
- If you’ve decided that you want to remain in the military, joining the reserves can be a great option.
- Reserve service allows you to balance your military duties with a civilian career.
- Your experience and skills will help you advance in your new role.
Option 2: Pursue Further Education
- If you’re interested in pursuing a new career or advancing your education, now is a great time to do it.
- Many veterans pursue further education and training through the GI Bill and other programs.
- This can help you develop new skills and increase your earning potential.
Option 3: Start Your Own Business
- If you’ve always dreamed of starting your own business, now may be the perfect time to do it.
- As a veteran, you’re eligible for a range of small business loans and other resources.
- Your experience and skills can help you develop a successful business model.
Option 4: Continue to Serve in the Military
- If you’ve decided that you want to continue serving in the military, you have several options to consider:
- Re-enlisting in the active duty branch you’re currently serving.
- Transferring to a different branch.
- Joining the reserve component.
Option 5: Pursue Alternative Careers
- If none of the above options appeal to you, there are many alternative careers to consider.
- Your military experience and skills can be valuable in many civilian careers.
- Some options to consider include:
- Disaster relief and emergency management.
- Security and security consulting.
- International humanitarian work.
Conclusion:
Transitioning out of the military can be challenging, but with the right support and resources, many service members have successfully made the transition and gone on to thrive in their civilian careers. Whether you decide to join the reserves, pursue further education, start your own business, continue to serve in the military, or pursue alternative careers, it’s essential to prioritize your health and wellness during this time. With the right mindset and support, you can achieve your goals and live a fulfilling life beyond your military contract.
