Career Resources for Student Veterans And 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:

• International Military Leave Support Program
  This program assists students who are affected by mandatory military services and aims to support students to make a smooth transition to and from the military life. 
• LinkedIn for Veterans
  Join the Veteran Mentor Network, view job postings from organizations specifically looking to hire veterans, and receive a free 1-year premium job seeker account. 
• 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 and Service Members

Student veterans & service members often find it very helpful to connect with peers on-campus. The University of Minnesota's Student Veterans Association (SVA) 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 Student Veterans Association 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.

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. Check out our guide onResume Writing for Veterans and 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 U.S. Department of Labor 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.
• Military Friendly Website
  View a list of the 100 most "military 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.