Trading tanks for Vanguard: finding fulfillment as a transitioning veteran

Inspired by my grandfather’s service as an Air Defense NCO during the Korean War and my father’s as a Medical Services Officer, I knew from a young age I wanted to serve my country. The thought of pursuing a calling in service of something bigger than myself always captured my imagination, so I commissioned into the Army and served 7 years as an Armor Officer. I was given the opportunity to lead young soldiers in difficult environments around the world, which forged lifelong friendships.

These experiences taught me valuable lessons about the highs and lows of military service – the thrill of a well-executed mission, seasons of separation from loved ones, overcoming tough circumstances with a tight-knit team, and the deep pain of loss. I learned that service often demands some degree of sacrifice but results in the most rewarding and memorable experiences.

While I loved my time in the Army, our family continued to grow and it became apparent that a transition from the military was for the best. While attending graduate school, I believed that I could learn new skills and tackle many challenges if there was a strong sense of purpose and meaning to tie my work to a broader mission. I began looking for opportunities to work on strategic initiatives across a business to make a tangible impact in service of others.

In this search, I came across Vanguard’s MBA Leadership Development program. After many conversations with crew, I learned about Vanguard’s noble mission to care for their clients while giving them the best chance to reach their financial goals. I was excited to join a team so clearly motivated by service to others in a program with a strong reputation for professional development. After a great experience as a summer intern, I was fortunate enough to receive a full-time offer and quickly accepted.

Navigating three rotations in the development program offered many opportunities to learn and grow under skilled and thoughtful leaders while surrounded by talented and supportive peers from other MBA programs. I loved working in highly collaborative settings with teams from multiple divisions oriented on bodies of work that directly benefitted our crew and clients. I grew significantly from the relationships that were formed and a mindset that approaches every challenge as an opportunity.

I walked through the doors of Vanguard seeking the camaraderie and sense of purpose I experienced in the military. Reflecting on my time in the program I can now look back and say that Vanguard exemplifies an ethos that fueled my passion for military service – mission first, people always.

-Sean E.