Ravi Kallianpur ⋅ Hammond , LA Louisiana State University ⋅ 28 years experience

Hi Daniel,

I think perhaps spending some time in assessing your strengths, your skills, your aptitudes would be a good step in the right direction. One of the ways I elicit answers from young ones, student workers and my team mates is by asking this question: "If you did not have to work about making a living, and everything you need and want is already provided for, what would you be doing?" It is a very simple question, but the answers may be harder to come by.

Another is to approach your colleagues, your friends circle and family, and ask them about their perception about you, your strengths, what do they most see you doing, and what do they think you would be GREAT at.

Next, create some targets and goals. For example, you could say "I want to learn xyz by nmo" They have to specific targets and goals.

Now there are many, many free tools out there which will give you an inventory of your strengths and point you towards a career where it is a natural fit. I am sure you have heard the phrase - when you find what you like doing, you will not work a day in your life. Very true. You HAVE to enjoy what you do, because that is the key to your long term satisfaction and fulfillment. Here is a list of tests and sites (some geared for veterans) which you may find useful. Take at least three of the career aptitude assessments and see if they agree and more importantly if it matches your personality, your goal, your passion; the last being very important.

ASSESSMENTS:
http://www.assessment.com/
http://www.iseek.org/careers/skillsAssessment
http://www.careertest.net/
http://rockportinstitute.com/
http://www.exec-careers.com/assessment-instruments.html
http://www.careertests.com/
http://www.ncda.org/aws/NCDA/pt/sp/interests_military

Take at least three of them, because you want to see that they more or agree on your aptitude and direction. I have included ones that are meant for executives. Many of these are free; yes, they have the paid versions also, but don't pay for one unless you think it is worth

FREE ONLINE CONTINUOUS LEARNING RESOURCES:
www.udemy.com
http://www.openculture.com/freeonlinecourses (this website is not exactly user friendly, but does offer a lot of them under one listing and is categorized)
http://www.gcflearnfree.org/
http://alison.com/
http://www.harvard.edu/faqs/distance-learning
http://oli.cmu.edu/learn-with-oli/see-our-free-open-courses/

The second set of links are for free learning resources, one way of supplementing your current skills sets.

Please do not hesitate to ask if you have any questions. I would consider it my privilege. You are beginning a new phase in your journey, and that can be frightening sometimes - do not worry because apprehension is part of being good at whatever you choose to do.

Here is thanking you for your service for others and the sacrifices you have made; also would like to wish you a New Year filled with joy, peace, knowledge, accomplishments and successes. Look forward to interacting more with you.

Regards, Ravi

Kelly Williams ⋅ Newark , DE Stars to Stripes Military Transition Assistance ⋅ 10 years experience

Mr. Hicks,

My advice to you would be to leverage your current experience to get your foot in the door to obtain a federal career. Once you get your foot in the door, your career opportunities are endless with the feds.

Additionally you can buy back your military time towards retirement AND you receive vets preference for most announcements.

If my advise above interests you, please contact me via message or email. My business partner works for DOJ -- a very veteran friendly agency. They are currently hiring across the country.

Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kellywilliamsmaresca/

Thank you for your service. We are here to help!

Warmest Regards,

Kelly Williams
Career Strategist & President
Security Cleared Careers
Expert Resume Solutions
Business: (732) 686-6455
Email: info@expertresumesolutions.com
www.ExpertResumeSolutions.com
Job Board: wwww.SecurityClearedCareers.com

GERRY KIRKLAND ⋅ Fort Mill , SC CGK Associates LLC ⋅ 49 years experience

Sergeant Hicks,
Thank you for your service.
Many positions today require a minimum of a Bachelor Degree to even b e considered. So, education is a top priority to be considered even if it is an internet based degree. Much can be done online from many institutions. The financial world is a very good career path but will require education, often in a specialty. Most management positions will also require a Bachelor Degree.

Peter Carruth ⋅ Sacramento , CA Strato Communications, Inc - Former USAF ⋅ 15 years experience

Hi Daniel,

If I estimate accurately, your approx 30-36.

I too got out little late, immediately started college the same month and worked evenings/weekend bussing and waiting tables 30-36 hours/week

School is not for everyone. However, taking your experience (college credit) add two to three more years full time college and complete a degree will serve two purposes. One, higher education will put you ahead of others that do not have formal edu, second, will expose you to other areas and provide time to hone in on your education.

Past experience has shown an employer will take the risk on someone that has world experience (your military), took the time and made the sacrifices to educate themselves than someone right out of college.

Know the goal and make it happen Brother.