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Career Resources for Student Veterans & Service Members

Connect With Your Career Resources
In addition to receiving service from Career and Internship Services, you may find the below resources helpful as you begin your job search:

State of Minnesota Veteran’s Services
The State of Minnesota offers career services for eligible student veterans, including transition workshops, individual job search help, the “Hire Vet’s First” program and veterans career fairs.

Veterans Administration: Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program
Some veterans may qualify for employment and vocational rehabilitation services through the Veterans Administration (VA).

Find Other Student Veterans & Service Members
Student veterans & service members often find it very helpful to connect with peers on-campus. The University of Minnesota’s Veteran’s Transition Center (VTC) has regular professional development and social events, and is open to student veterans and the friends, family, and supporters of student veterans.

Get a Mentor
The U of M Veteran’s Transition Center Mentor Program matches student veterans with professionals in the field who are also vets. Student veterans can also participate in their College Mentor Program as well.

Know Employer Assumptions
Most employers greatly value the perspective and skills that student veterans bring to the workplace. However, there may be many positive and negative assumptions about veterans held by potential employers. Inform yourself by viewing this PowerPoint presentation (pdf).

Develop a “Civilian Friendly” Resume
To compete for jobs and internships outside of the military, you will need to adapt your resume language to civilian terms. For help in doing so, go to online.onetcenter.org and click on “Crosswalk Search” to enter your military job code. This tool will translate your military assignment into a civilian occupation with key words to help you write effective bullet statements. Visit the career center for personal help with this process!

Know Your Rights
The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) is a broad law with implications for returning veterans, including protection from job discrimination. Find more information visit the US Office of Special Counsel USERRA website.

Hiring Preference for Veterans
Many organizations want to hire veterans and in some cases give preference to veteran applicants:

USA Jobs-Federal Government Openings
The United States Federal Government gives preference to job seekers who are veterans.

G.I. Jobs Website
View a list of the 50 most “veteran friendly” employers.

Veteran's Employment & Training Service (VETS)
This site has several helpful resources and links for veterans who are in a job search.

Additional Resources

Online Workshop: Career Resources for Student Veterans and Service Members
An online workshop with career tips and resources.

Veterans Today Web Site
News, benefits, and job search information for veterans.

Recruit Military Web Site
Information on military friendly employers and job postings.

Resume Writing for Veterans (pdf)
Information on writing a resume with military experience and background.

Need more information than what you find here?  Contact Career and Internship Services at 612-624-2710 for an appointment.