AAR: Tell Your Story and Start Early – Veteran Spotlight with Chip Wilmer

This Veteran Spotlight is on Chip Wilmer – recent admit to Wake Forest’s Masters in Accounting program.  Chip served as a Field Artillery officer during six years on active duty in the Army.  Notable assignments included serving as a Company FSO in Iraq and a Squadron FSO in Afghanistan.

Chip reiterates the need for veterans to highlight their skills, network, take the GMAT (or other test) early, and plan ahead.

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Why did you decide to leave the military?

My wife and I decided that the military wasn’t conducive to the family life we wanted.

What was your transition timeline like?  How far before you left the service did you take the necessary tests and decide on schools

 Prior to my deployment to Afghanistan in early 2011, I was sure I was going to leave active duty but didn’t initiate anything until I returned in December 2011. Between January and March 2012, I submitted my unqualified resignation, studied for and took the GMAT, and applied to graduate accounting programs. While the compressed timeline worked out for me, I’d recommend at least six months to comfortably prepare for transition.

What were the top 3 criteria for deciding on a school?

Prestige, Location, Cost

What resources did you use to make the transition easier?

The two biggest things that contributed to a successful transition were networking and taking a GMAT prep class.

I began networking with industry contacts in the Charlotte area prior to my deployment.  Besides reaffirming my decision to leave active duty, networking resulted in establishing a connection with the dean of the accounting program at Wake Forest – who encouraged me to apply.

Last but certainly not least, I took a GMAT prep class through the University of Louisville.  Without the course, I wouldn’t have got the score I needed the first time.  I’d recommend a similar class as a must for anyone but, if that’s not an option, the Princeton Review prep book is great.

What were the top 3 criteria in deciding on a new career?

1) Finding a field I would look forward to working in.

2) Somewhat recession proof (Everyone has to file taxes and financial statements)

3) Various Career path options (Private vs. Public accounting; Local, Regional, National, and International Firms)

Did you have a backup to school in case you were not able to win admission?

Yes, I had two. I applied to one and was prepared to apply to the other if necessary.

Are there any key mistakes veterans should avoid?

Allow plenty of time to transition. Invariably, there are unforeseen requirements no matter how prepared you are.

If you could have known one thing before the transition what would it be? 

I wish I knew more about the Yellow Ribbon program.  It’s a great program that allows private schools to match (and effectively double) your education benefits. However, you have to be 100% qualified for your education benefits to be eligible. Additionally, some schools only have a limited number of Yellow Ribbon slots.

 How did you manage finances?

 I count myself as very fortunate.  Between your education benefits and merit based scholarships, I will have little to no out of pocket costs for grad school.  My backup plan was to tap into savings and/or apply for loans.

For housing, your education benefits do provide a BAH stipend at an E5 with dependents rate. However, if you’re going to commute to school, the VA only pays you for the zip code where your school is located. It was not a significant difference in my case, but it is worth mentioning.

What advice do you have for transitioning veterans?

Military service goes along way for getting the proverbial foot in the door.  Once you’re there, you still have to close the deal, but employers and schools want people with our skill sets.  As far as closing the deal, don’t be afraid to speak about your experiences and elaborate on what you can bring to the table. It may go against the grain of a military culture that honors the quiet professional, but, quite frankly, you’re not in the military anymore.

Also, whether you work with Service2School or a veteran who made the transition before you, find someone to help you translate your military experience into civilian terms. Unless you had civilian work experience prior to the military, you’re going to need some significant assistance.

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Thanks again to Chip for all the helpful advice!