Duty to Domer: Student Veteran Roadmap to Success

At OMVA, our commitment to our military-connected students extends beyond our office walls. Through intentional programming, peer support, and strategic partnerships, we ensure that every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Explore the timeline of a typical student veteran at Notre Dame, from "Duty to Domer".

Year 1

1. Welcome Letters (July): OMVA sends out welcome letters that include an OMVA pin, sticker, and wristband. Keep an eye on your mailbox!
2. Welcome Weekend (August): In August, attend the welcome lunch with OMVA, orientation, discussion on Host Family Program, peer-to-peer sponsorship, benefits and much more.
3. Orientation (August): Continuing in August, attend orientation for an introduction to OMVA, gifts, welcome survey, meet a host family, meet the SCO, learn about community resources, like UCC, McWell, and Career Development.
4. Social Integration (August - September): Throughout August and September, follow OMVA on Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn for updates on scholarships, resources, and more. You can also join OMVA's GroupMe for your class to post questions, share ideas, or simply chat. Don’t forget to sign up for the monthly e-newsletter. If you’re a student veteran, be sure to schedule a 1:1 meeting with your sponsor within the first 30 days of classes.
5. Ongoing Integration (September - May): You'll  stay connected with OMVA-led events through the monthly newsletter, ensuring you don't miss any opportunities for engagement.
6. Academic/Career Advising (January - May): Academic advising sessions are tailored to assist first-year student veterans in selecting major courses, planning their academic trajectory, and exploring potential minors or concentrations. You can also take advantage of the headshot booth to get a professional photo for future career opportunities.

Year 2

1. Resume Building Workshop (September): Join a resume-building workshop tailored to student veterans to turn your military experience into assets valued by employers.
2. Academic Advising (August - September): Schedule your academic advising session to get personalized assistance with selecting major courses, planning your academic trajectory, and exploring potential minors or concentrations.
3. Academic Workshops (October & March): Participate in workshops or seminars focused on time management, study skills, and academic success strategies.
4. Research Opportunities (October & March): Utilize available resources and support to secure summer internships, experiential learning, or research opportunities that align with your academic and career goals.
5. Recruiting Events (January - May): Attend recruiting events, including those with 50Strong, Veterans in Financial Markets (VFM), and Lawrence Livermore Labs, to connect with potential employers.
6. Make Connections (August - May): Engage with faculty mentors, alumni, or professionals in your field of interest to build your network, gain guidance, and receive career advice.

Year 3

1. LinkedIn Profile Workshop (November): Attend the LinkedIn Profile Workshop to learn how to present your military experience in a way future employers will understand.
2. Informational Interviews (August - May): Take part in informational interviews organized through 50Strong, VFM, and Lawrence Livermore Labs to explore different career paths.
3. Professional Networking (August - May): Join in-person networking events, career fairs, and alumni panels to connect with potential employers and industry professionals.
4. Research Opportunities (January - May): Seek support to secure summer internships, experiential learning, or research opportunities that align with your academic and career aspirations.
5. Graduate School Prep (January - May): Start preparing your graduate school applications with help from the Career Development Office (CDO) by drafting personal statements, gathering recommendation letters, and taking practice tests.
6. Career Counseling (January - May): Book individual career counseling sessions to discuss your post-graduation plans, career aspirations, and graduate school considerations.

Year 4

1. Resume/LinkedIn Workshop (August - September): Participate in a final review of your resume and LinkedIn profile to ensure they are polished and ready for job applications.
2. Facilitate Mock Interviews (October & March): Practice your interview skills through mock interviews and networking events with employers, alumni, and industry professionals.
3. Applying for Graduate School (August - December): Attend workshops to get guidance on graduate school applications, including personal statements, recommendation letters, and test preparation.
4. Recruiting Events (August - May): Access job boards, career fairs, and recruiting events both on and off-campus with support from OMVA, including partnerships with 50Strong, VFM, and Lawrence Livermore Labs.
5. Applying for Jobs (January - May): Prepare for your job search by joining workshops on interview preparation, offer negotiation, and professional development. OMVA and the CDO will guide you through each step, including workplace etiquette, networking, and career advancement.
6. Graduation Celebration (April): Celebrate your achievements with OMVA at the graduation celebration and provide feedback through an exit survey.
7. RouteND Recruiting (May): Consider becoming a RouteND ambassador if you’re a graduating ROTC cadet, midshipman, or returning active-duty student to help identify future transitioning service members.

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