Chairwoman Herseth Sandlin, Ranking Member Boozman, and members of the Subcommittee, on behalf of the Transition Assistance Program attendees and instructors for several governmental agencies, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to present information concerning my experience with the Transition Assistance Program and give you three reasons why I support it.

After being out of the civilian workforce for 20 plus years, day one of TAP gave me a wealth of knowledge on getting back “in the game.” I no longer felt like an outsider looking in. Granted, I experienced “information overload” but now felt like I had been given the competitive edge that I needed for my job search, with access to tools such as websites, job search, personal appraisal information, financial guidance, etc.

Day two of TAP was even more valuable. It consisted of teaching me how to fill out a job application, understand the five different types of resumes (chronological, functional, combination, federal and targeted), the importance of and know how on completing cover letters, and finally, writing my own resume.

Day three was equally important as it consisted of the interview process. They taught us basic elements such as preparation (know the company), and knowing the job description. As basic as this sounds, we needed to be reminded of this. Getting my “30 second commercial” done – having to sell myself! Finding out that there are so many types of interviews: phone, board, one-on-one, e-mail – and that I had to always be ready to interview. We discussed tough questions and how to handle them in interviews. I understood that I must be able show in the interview how I can contribute to this company – by increasing their profits or satisfying their need. Without the last half of the day to learn about personal veteran benefits, I know that I would not have been able to protect my family and best use the benefits that are available to me.

In summary, I’ve explained why the three day TAP class has benefited me and why I believe it is invaluable to all veterans. Please continue to support it as I do.

Chairwoman Herseth Sandlin, Ranking Member Boozman, and members of the Subcommittee, thank you for taking the time to hear about my experience with the Transition Assistance Program. This concludes my testimony. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.