Planning for your retirement or discharge from military service can be a scary and exciting time in your life. The transition will go much smoother and be more productive if you have a plan in place before you take off your combat boots.

If you don’t currently have a goal for what you want do after the military, there are many resourcesavailable to assist with the transition. You will need to think about your financial plan, if you will have a job, or if you will return to college. Today, many active servicemembers are enrolling in online college programs, jump-starting their postmilitary careers. There are many exceptional, military-friendly online colleges that allow you to study no matter where you are stationed, at any hour of the day or night and with some research you can choose one that fits your lifestyle, schedule, and interests.

Financial commitments and other pitfalls sometimes keep veterans from attending college. Time management and a success plan for college will help make certain your chances of earning the degree you want. Whether you have been enrolled in a distance learning program while in the military or you are enrolling in a college degree plan for the first time, time management and early financial planning are two key success variables. There are online colleges that offer programs committed to veterans, making it possible to excel in the classroom and share the camaraderie of other veterans who have experienced similar life events.

Active or retired servicemembers can take advantage of financial assistance programs, like the GI Bill or the Pell Grant, while learning skills that could introduce a new career. Once you have made the decision what area you want to study, think about earning an online degree, which allows for more versatility in scheduling around your current work and life demands. 

It’s never too soon to make plans for your future. Set your goals, and begin a course of study for your postmilitary career.