Success Statements

“Transitioning from the Army to civilian life was a significant challenge, particularly in identifying the right career path. As a veteran, I had a wide range of opportunities available to me, but matching my skills and experience with the right job was time-consuming and overwhelming.

Fortunately, I received support from OJRV, especially from Employment Transition Manager Kristal Watts. She provided resume-building assistance, application tips, and advice. Kristal listened carefully to my experiences and skills, helping me identify where they would be most beneficial. She even reached out to potential employers on my behalf, offering unwavering support throughout the entire process.

As a result of this assistance, I received multiple job offers and gained new insights into resources I hadn’t considered, such as employment sites, job fairs, and one-on-one interview assistance. Ultimately, I secured a position as a social service assistant with the Department of Children and Family Services for the state of Illinois.

Thanks to the OJRV and the Call of Duty Endowment, I am now confident in my ability to transition from military service without uncertainty. OJRV is a great organization, and I am so grateful for Kristal’s patience, dedication, and continued help, which eased my fears and set me on the path to a career I am excited about.”