New member from Florida.

[Ernesto Ramirez]

I am a 20 year old US Soldier and I am about a year away from the end of my service. I have served honorably up to this point, including currently being on my second deployment. I am an infantryman and unfortunately that includes not having an actual skill outside of the military. Before joining the military I had aspirations to have a career in real estate. I put that aside, joined the military first, and served like I planned. Now that I have achieved that goal and served our country, my mind is back on track to my next goal.

So the question is where do I even begin? Where should I look for help? What should I read? Who should I talk to? What should I research? What should I not get caught up in? Where did you begin? Where should I network?

I have the Montgomery and Post 9/11 GI Bill available to me after I am out. The benefit is designed to help servicemembers and eligible veterans cover the costs associated with getting an education or training. 

I am willing go to school and get a relevant degree. I am looking to begin my career in my hometown of Bradenton, FL or somewhere in the general area. With the little researched knowledge I have, I would like to say that it is a decent market to begin. I am willing to begin elsewhere but not too far that my children will grow up with little time spent with their grandparents. I forgot to mention I have my first son on the way in a few months. That much more reason to be determined.

If anyone can help me out in any way, that being advice, tips, opinions etc. it would be appreciated greatly. Thank you kindly. :)