One thing Veterans know about is “Rumor Control” – the most accurate source of information prior to the actual occurrence of an event.
Translated, that means…. “I have heard”. I have heard we will be off tomorrow. I have heard you do not need a driver’s license in Europe. I have heard that an artillery shell whistles when it is coming in close to you. The truth is, until you have experienced something or researched it, you do not know yourself.
I learned early on that no one cares about you or your career the way you do. That means, you owe it to yourself to learn it for yourself.
Often, jobseekers and employees will ask others for answers before seeking the answer themselves. The first step should always be self-reliance. Research is much simpler today than it was decades ago. The first step should always be your policy, manual or instructions.
Today, we have a range of search engines to choose from that provide answers to most questions.
For example: Does Veterans Affairs recognize other state nursing licensees?
The answer is easily found on the VACareers.va.gov website – see link below (and the answer is “yes”).
Things to know before you apply.
Some think that applying for a job at VA is a complicated process. While it’s true, processes can vary between departments and specialties, the first thing you should ask yourself before applying to any position is, “Do I meet VA’s Basic Qualification Standards?”
Start by asking yourself the questions from the following list. And once you determine that you fit the basic qualifications, applying for a job at VA is much easier than you may think.
- U.S. citizen
- Graduate of an approved/accredited program (if education is required for the position)
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted professional license from any State, Commonwealth, or Territory (e.g., Puerto Rico) of the United States or from the District of Columbia
- English language competency
- If you have done your research, we encourage you to search opportunities at VAcareers.va.gov.
- We learn more and impress more when we become the one with the answers, rather than the one with the questions.
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For Veterans, the mission does not end when the uniform comes off. VA careers offer opportunities to serve while building fulfilling civilian careers.
Whether it’s access to the great outdoors or a calmer pace in your everyday life, you can find it in rural VA communities around the country.
If you’re looking for an opportunity to provide care to Veterans outside a traditional clinical setting, Home Based Primary Care (HBPC) is a great option.
