A few months ago I posted looking for advice as this upcoming summer (2014) I will be transitioning out the military and looking for an entry level equity research role with a small/boutique firm. I understand reference my background I have an uphill battle, but was hoping if you could provide feedback on my resume and/or if there is anything I need to do over the next 6-8 months to better my chances of landing a full-time offer. Also, as I cannot start working until after July 5, 2014, when should I start sending out applications? Below is a rough copy of my resume, do not mind the formatting, just to provide a professional background for sound advice. If I should leave anything off and elaborate anywhere please let me know. Thank you. I will be taking CFA level 1 next December as I will be moving back to the US around the time it is offered in June. Separating from the military and moving from Turkey to the US will be stressful enough with a wife and two small children, no need to add to the list. Better to wait, study when I am focused an pass. Additionally, I intend to complete an MBA in 3-5 years after I gain some professional experience outside of the military. Ideally I would like to attend INSEAD as I am have strong interest in their international aspect.
Once again thank you!
Education
University of North Dakota , GPA 3.6 M_aster of Science in Applied Economics_ Troy University , GPA 3.8 Master of Science in International Relations
Professional Experience
United States Air Force - 2003-2014
- Leads and supervises a crew of two controllers and one interpreter in a joint nation facility
- Oversees 38,000 annual aircraft operations and $10M worth of equipment
- Enhanced facility efficiency through the overhaul 35 air traffic control quick reference guides
- Managed award winning Squadron Safety Program on 60 personnel, resulting zero mishaps
- Pushed individuals struggling with standards, conducted 30+ hours of one on one training, fitness scores increased 20%
- Orchestrated airdrop operations enabling 215 Special Forces members to remain combat ready
- Directed Unit Fitness Program for 150 personnel; 97% pass rate on military fitness standards
- Served as international liaison to 20 Belgian Air Force members during 30 nation exercis
- Provided air traffic control services to six airports servicing 275,000 annual aircraft and $4.2M worth of equipment
- Cleared 25 artillery operations, facilitating critical requests to shield troops from suppressed insurgent attacks
- Supported vital convoy missions, directing F-16s to provide cover, allowed supplies to be delivered without incident
- Relayed surface to air fire reports, cleared airspace and tailored aircraft routes to avoid attack
Volunteer Experience
Seeking Alpha/** Wall Street Oasis**Finance Writer
- Attracted 1,300 weekly readers by presenting a researched analysis on commodities, equities and emerging markets
Volunteer Nepal Village Planting and Harvesting Prepared four fields for rice planting, maintained six fields of maize and herded seven goats daily
Publications
Air Space and Power Journal - Book Reviews
- U.S Defense Politics: The Origins of Security Policy
- The International Arms Trade: War and Conflict in the Modern World
- The Soviet Biological Weapons Program: A History
Technical Skills, Awards and Extracurricular
Technical Skills: STATA and Excel
Awards: Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year, Excellence in Leadership, Air Traffic Control Watch Supervisor of the Quarter
Extracurricular : Traveled to 19 countries, maintains family’s portfolio valued at $10,000, actively involved in investment community