From Service to Civilian: Navigating the Transition with Veterans Services

Melissa Michaud, an Orange County Veteran Services counselor, was a college freshman when she struck up a conversation with visiting ROTC candidates on campus. After serious reflection, she realized joining the U.S. Navy was her true calling.

During her years of service, Michaud discovered inner strength and determination she never knew she had. She navigated unique challenges along the way, including completing her final bootcamp station tests despite a knee injury that warranted medical attention. She was overcome with emotion by the support from her shipmates when she earned her Navy ballcap at graduation.

Michaud proudly served seven years in the U.S. Navy. She was passionate about her military career and found a family in her shipmates. Yet, returning to civilian life was, perhaps, her biggest challenge yet.

"I ended up relying heavily on other veterans just to figure out what resources were available," Michaud said. "I felt alone and uncertain about what direction to take, almost like 'now what do I do?' When you are active duty, the military is your entire world. The people you serve with become your family, and they look out for you. Then, when you get out, all of that disappears overnight."

A National Library of Medicine survey noted that over 60% of post-9/11 veterans report difficulties adjusting to civilian life. Stressors commonly experienced by transitioning veterans include drastic structural shifts in daily life, clashes between military and civilian cultures, finding employment, and even loss of income.

"I was led to enlist in the armed forces largely because of the strong military influences present throughout my upbringing," said Nayda Ferguson, Veteran Services Counselor. "My father served in the U.S. Navy, and from an early age I was exposed to the pride, discipline, and sense of purpose that service can instill. The uniform, structure, drill, and discipline quickly became natural parts of my life."

Many of those who enlist-like Ferguson who served 15 years in the U.S. Air Force-grow up in military families and are inspired by their loved ones to enlist. Even though all military careers are unique, the transition to civilian life is a shared struggle, especially when it comes to the topic of respect.

"The transition from military to civilian life was very challenging for me-it took about two years to fully adjust," Ferguson said. "In the military, roles, responsibilities, and expectations are clear, and respect is foundational. The most challenging part of reentering civilian society was adjusting to the lack of structure in many environments, as well as the differences in how respect is shown. I wish more people understood the level of sacrifice and dedication that goes into serving in our armed forces."

Finding employment amid the transition is often challenging, as many skills learned in military service don’t carry over to civilian jobs or careers.

"One of the most difficult things I faced was applying for jobs and being told that my skills didn't transfer to any civilian job," Alnita Whitt, Veteran Services Program Manager said. Whitt has served three years in the U.S. Army and four years in the Army National Guard. "I realized quickly that many civilians didn't understand the military lifestyle. I found myself not wanting to mention that I served in the military just to be considered for jobs."

In time, these three local heroes have settled back into civilian life, applying their core values and lessons learned from their military experiences. Michaud recounts how her experience in the Navy taught her about perseverance. For Whitt, it was harnessing her inner strength to face her fears. And for Ferguson, it was creating her own structure through discipline.

The Orange County Veterans Services office is comprised of an all-veteran staff because they can relate to common challenges transitioning from military to civilian life. And above all, they're passionate about helping fellow vets get the support needed during, or even long after the transitional period.

"We help fellow vets understand and file for their VA benefits. We work with many community partners that offer a variety of services and can provide resources as needed," Whitt said. "We encourage veterans to get involved with community organizations and veteran service organizations to continue the camaraderie and build a supporting network similar to what they had on active duty."

While the transition may prove challenging, with the aid of the Veterans Services office, veterans can claim benefits they’ve earned and connect with military families once again.

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