Author: USVM Editor

Transitioning from military service to civilian employment is a journey that presents unique challenges, from adapting to a new work culture to balancing ongoing military obligations. Merck, a global pharmaceutical leader, has earned recognition as a Top Veteran-Friendly Company by addressing these challenges head-on and fostering a supportive environment for veterans and their families. Through innovative programs and a culture of understanding, Merck exemplifies how organizations can champion veterans’ success.Ellis Mensah’s Journey at MerckEllis Mensah, a Clinical Supply Project Manager and Senior Specialist at Merck, represents the profound impact of the company’s veteran-focused initiatives. With four years at Merck, Mensah’s…

By Joanna Fagan         Student veterans are entering higher education spaces at a steady rate. While their visibility on Unites States campuses is increasing, the need for investment into training and education on the student veteran transition process has also increased. Student veterans face various challenges in entering higher education, namely, entering classrooms with traditional aged students and trading a highly structured military setting for the less-structured college campus.Student veterans may feel a sense of isolation and lack connections to students, faculty, staff and the general social environment. They may also battle medical and psychiatric conditions (i.e., PTSD, depression) at…

Many of the skills that veterans gain during service can be transferred into any civilian career. However, for some careers, what you do while on active duty can further prepare you for life outside the military. This is especially true for Marine Corps Communications Officer Carly Donner, who combined her love for STEM with a military career in cybersecurity. We had the privilege of speaking with Donner to discuss cybersecurity and transitioning and how they complement each other.Tell us about your military service.I was commissioned from the Naval Academy in 2018 and became a Marine Corps Communications Officer. At my…

Lt. Col. Stuart “Stu” Scheller is a dedicated advocate for developing strong leaders and showcasing veterans as examples of resilience and service-driven leadership. A graduate of the University of Cincinnati with a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in military science from the Marine Corps Command and Staff College, Scheller has spent his career demonstrating leadership in both operational and training environments.Since beginning his career in the Marine Corps in 2005, Scheller has held numerous leadership roles at the platoon, company and battalion levels. Early on, he was part of the evacuation of American citizens from Beirut during the 2006 Israeli-Lebanese…

The MBA Veterans Network is a bridge between military experience and corporate success that provides veterans with advanced degrees in business with a powerful platform to transition into the workforce. At the heart of this initiative is Craig Griffin, Partner of RecruitMilitary and President of the MBA Veterans Network, who brings over 27 years of expertise in veteran recruiting. Griffin’s leadership drives the annual MBA Veterans Career Conference, a transformative event connecting top-tier MBA talent from the military with global industry leaders.  What Sets the Conference Apart The MBA Veterans Career Conference, held annually in October, is no ordinary career…

Founded by a former marine in 1991, American Military University (AMU) has stood as a beacon of opportunity and support for the nation’s servicemembers and their families. By offering flexible, affordable, and high-quality education tailored to the unique needs of the military community, AMU ensures that those who have served our nation—and their loved ones—have access to a brighter future.One of AMU’s most impactful initiatives is its Veteran Grant, which provides a 10% tuition reduction for undergraduate and a 15% tuition reduction for master’s-level programs. This grant underscores AMU’s unwavering dedication to making higher education attainable for veterans who are…

Applying for jobs is rewarding work, but there are a few points in the application process where you feel like you should have heard something—anything—on your application status.VA careers says first of all, relax. Take a beat, take a breath and remember that you could be one of dozens, if not hundreds, of candidates applying for the same job. Processing that number of qualified applicants can take some time, so patience is paramount.If you’re still uncertain, and want to reach out, follow these helpful tips on when and how to follow up with a hiring manager. You’ll get your answers,…

At the invitation of Chancellor John K. Pierre, Southern University and A&M College hosted Emmy-winning journalist Harris Faulkner, host of FOX News Channel’s (FNC) Outnumbered and The Faulkner Focus, on Sunday, Feb. 23 to acknowledge her contributions to journalism and community. Faulkner, who is the first recipient of the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence and Lifetime Achievement, met with student groups. She also broadcasted FNC’s “The Faulkner Focus” live from campus on Monday, February 25. “This special event on campus is designed to celebrate Ms. Faulkner’s extraordinary accomplishments and contributions to journalism, while also highlighting her trailblazing career and personal story…

After 21 years of distinguished service in the Navy, Sharonda Perry embarked on a new mission: business ownership. Today, as the owner of a ComForCare franchise in Arlington, Texas, Perry’s dedication to service continues, albeit in a different capacity. Her path from Chief Aviation Electronics Technician to franchise owner exemplifies how military values can seamlessly translate into the business world. A Call to Serve Beyond the UniformPerry’s transition to business ownership was deeply personal. Following her retirement from the Navy, she faced a significant challenge when her beloved grandmother was diagnosed with dementia. Determined to provide the best care possible, Perry…

By Larry Broughton Change is the natural order of the universe. For those of us who are approaching the “third half” of our lives, change seems to be coming at us faster each year. Transitioning service members can also attest to this speed of change as they embark on new careers in the civilian sector. Hiring managers today face a rapidly changing workforce and job market as well.The skills required for many positions are evolving quickly, especially with the advent of new technologies. For veterans transitioning to civilian roles, this can present both opportunities and challenges.SKILL TRANSLATIONChallenge: Veterans often struggle…