PCS orders can disrupt nearly every aspect of military family life. For military spouses pursuing higher education, relocations often interrupt coursework, clinical requirements, internships and registration timelines. A mid-semester move can force decisions about withdrawals, credit transfers and enrollment gaps that delay graduation and increase costs.Despite this mobility, many spouses continue progressing toward degrees and certifications. Their success often depends on early planning, clear communication and strategic school selection.Proactive PlanningService members typically relocate every two to three years, meaning many spouses experience multiple PCS moves during a degree program. Because orders can arrive with limited notice, advisors recommend reviewing institutional…
Author: USVM
After 32 years in uniform, I know stability matters to the men and women who have served. Home is the anchor that provides security and a sense of belonging. Yet even with a well-earned VA home loan benefit, many veterans struggle to establish roots after leaving the structured world of military life. Today, as a retired Rear Admiral and Executive Chairman of NewDay USA, I have the privilege of helping veterans become homeowners while mentoring young executives dedicated to serving them.Despite the powerful advantages of a VA home loan, only about 22%—roughly 3.9 million—of the nation’s 18 million veterans use…
Opened in 2017, the Education & Outreach Center brings civilians and defenders together. Through speaking series, workshops, and summits, hosted events focus on character building exercises and educating communities about the importance of service over self.Bridging the GapWith less than 1% of our population in the armed services today, and all serving on a volunteer basis, our military and civilian communities rarely interact. This facility provides a casual, communal environment to bring these two worlds together for constructive dialogues and inspiring events.Raising AwarenessA service member’s successful transition to civilian life starts with a welcoming community. Our forthcoming multimedia exhibit and…
This month, the Call of Duty Endowment (C.O.D.E.) celebrates Military Appreciation Month presented by USAA, reaching a milestone of placing 169,000 veterans into high-quality jobs.Now available in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 and Call of Duty: Warzone, the C.O.D.E. Navigator: Tracer Pack was inspired by and created in collaboration with CAPT Chris Cassidy (USN, ret.), a former U.S. Navy SEAL and NASA astronaut. The pack honors his journey from sea to space and includes two Operator Skins, Weapon Blueprints, and more.100% of Activision’s net proceeds will be donated to the Endowment.The Endowment pack includes:• “Argonaut” Operator Skin• “Astronaut” Operator…
For military spouses pursuing higher education, institutional support can significantly influence persistence and degree completion. While many colleges promote military tuition discounts, fewer maintain the structured advising systems and dedicated scholarships that address the realities of military life. Two factors consistently stand out: comprehensive military-affiliated student support centers and scholarships designated specifically for military spouses. Across the country, several public and private institutions demonstrate sustained commitments in these areas. Military Support Centers Large public universities often provide strong infrastructure for military-connected students. Dedicated military and veteran resource centers centralize advising, benefits guidance, career services and peer networks—reducing administrative complexity for…
Entrepreneurship remains a significant pathway for former service members entering civilian careers, with millions of veteran-owned businesses operating across the nation. Military experience often builds leadership and operational focus—qualities that translate well into business ownership. Yet those same strengths can create friction when applied to civilian markets without adjustment. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and veteran-focused business mentors, several recurring challenges emerge among veteran business owners. The encouraging reality is that most can be addressed with early awareness, strategic planning and the right support systems. Adaptive Leadership One of the most common adjustments involves moving from a…
For service members, veterans and military families, navigating benefits, trusted services and available opportunities can often feel fragmented. Programs exist across government agencies, nonprofit organizations and private companies, but they are not always easy to locate—or verify.Military Connect was created to simplify that experience by bringing these opportunities together in a unified digital ecosystem designed specifically for the military community.At its core, Military Connect serves as a centralized platform where verified members of the U.S. Armed Forces, veterans and their families can access meaningful benefits, resources and exclusive programs from trusted brands and organizations. The goal is to create a…
In 2026’s fast-paced job market, interviews have evolved into more than just a conversation—they’re a test of preparation, adaptability and strategy. Whether you’re a transitioning service member, veteran, military spouuse or a recent graduate, landing the role requires more than a polished résumé. Interviewing well means understanding the current hiring landscape, anticipating employer expectations and showcasing your value quickly.Here’s what job seekers need to know to excel in interviews this year: First Impressions MatterResearch continues to show that first impressions are made quickly—some experts say within the first 7 to 15 seconds. According to sales trainer Sean McPheat, one of the…
By Navy Federal Credit Union With government shutdown-related pay disruptions, financial strain on military families is immediate and often unavoidable. Paychecks pause, but everyday expenses do not, leaving households to navigate mortgage payments, rent, groceries, childcare, and other essentials amid uncertainty. Rapid Relief During the 2026 Government Shutdown In response to the partial government shutdown in early 2026, Navy Federal re-launched its Government Shutdown Program, which provides eligible members with no-interest payments proportionate to their paychecks. From February through the end of April, the credit union distributed $40.2 million in assistance to more than 7,800 members affected by delays in…
As employers increasingly recognize veterans as a valuable talent pool, well-meaning hiring practices can still create unintended barriers. According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service, many veteran employment challenges stem not from a lack of qualifications but from how hiring systems interpret experience, communication style and perceived “fit.”Understanding where these missteps occur is essential for recruiters seeking to make veteran hiring both effective and equitable.Job DescriptionsOne of the earliest obstacles veterans encounter appears in job postings. Many descriptions rely heavily on civilian credentials, industry-specific titles or narrowly defined career paths that do not align with…
