Political Science and Sociology Panel
Veterans: the Complexities of Post-Military Employment
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Sociology
Minor
Humanities
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Nititham
Presentation Format
Poster Presentation
Abstract/Description
When analyzing the impact military service has on the success of a civilian career, there are two main schools of thought. One side’s argument points to veteran status as a general work barrier and highlights identity crises and mental illness as the main disadvantages (Murdoch et al. 2017). On the other hand, the opposing side argues that advantages such as hiring preferences, specialized training, and vast social connections enable veterans to succeed at a higher rate than their civilian peers (Winters 2018). This discussion begs the research question: how exactly does military service influence civilian career success? In order to adequately answer this question, it is paramount to further dissect and identify the variables being measured. In this instance, the independent variable is veteran status, while the dependent variable is career success. Career success can be defined in a variety of ways, but for the purposes of this research it will be interpreted in terms of financial stability, job satisfaction, adequate work/life balance, and social wellbeing (Hoffmire, Borrowski, and Vogt 2023).
Spring Scholars Week 2024 Event
Political Science and Sociology Panel
Veterans: the Complexities of Post-Military Employment
When analyzing the impact military service has on the success of a civilian career, there are two main schools of thought. One side’s argument points to veteran status as a general work barrier and highlights identity crises and mental illness as the main disadvantages (Murdoch et al. 2017). On the other hand, the opposing side argues that advantages such as hiring preferences, specialized training, and vast social connections enable veterans to succeed at a higher rate than their civilian peers (Winters 2018). This discussion begs the research question: how exactly does military service influence civilian career success? In order to adequately answer this question, it is paramount to further dissect and identify the variables being measured. In this instance, the independent variable is veteran status, while the dependent variable is career success. Career success can be defined in a variety of ways, but for the purposes of this research it will be interpreted in terms of financial stability, job satisfaction, adequate work/life balance, and social wellbeing (Hoffmire, Borrowski, and Vogt 2023).