Navigating Post-Service Life
One of the biggest challenges I have faced while navigating post-service life was discovering my new sense of purpose. I have always had a passion for making a difference personally and professionally (one of the reasons I joined the military), and it was important to me that I could continue that in my next chapter. While at school utilizing my post-911 G.I. Bill benefits (Chapter 33), I was lucky enough to stumble upon a session conducted by Selective. An open position at Selective aligned with my study area, and the person who spoke at the session recommended that I apply for this role.
That interaction has taken me to places that I wouldn’t have imagined. I had never even considered an insurance career, especially after working on F-18 Super hornets as an Aviation Machinist Mate for the last four years. My time in service afforded me a unique skill set and life experiences that set me apart from most, and I wasn't sure how I could make the connection to the insurance industry.
Finding My Place at Selective
Nervously, I went to the interview (my first interview after the military), and to my surprise, I got the position. Within my first week at Selective, I knew I wanted to make a career with this organization. Right away, I felt at home with Selective's values of Trust, Integrity, Inclusion, Service Excellence, and Be the Best. I also felt empowered to be my unique self and utilize the skills I learned in the military to help problem-solve and develop new ideas.
I have now been at Selective for five years and have held four different positions during that time – my most recent role promoting me to a supervisor. In addition to being supported professionally, I have also fulfilled my passion for making a difference in the community. I have been given opportunities to participate in many events supporting our local communities throughout our footprint. I have also become part of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council and multiple Employee Resource Groups (ERG), including the newly formed Military and Veterans ERG.
Showing Support for Our Veterans
Being on the team of founding members of the Military & Veterans ERG has given me a connection with other veterans and civilian supporters and allowed me the opportunity to help raise awareness about the sacrifices our military women and men make for the betterment of our country.
As Maya Angelou once said, “How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!" I encourage all of us to keep that sentiment in mind on Veterans Day and every day.
About the Author
Marissa Marshall has been with Selective for five years, and currently holds the title of Paper Records Supervisor and Marketing/Privacy Paralegal at our Corporate Headquarters in Branchville. Additionally, Marissa dedicates time volunteering as a DE & I Council Member, Military and Veteran ERG founding member, Working Caregiver ERG leader, and Women at Work Affinity group member. Prior to her career at Selective, she served in the United States Navy, Petty Officer Third Class, as an Aviation Machinist Mate. Marissa was deployed in 2012, for Operation Enduring Freedom.
Marissa is married to Steven Marshall and together, they have two children and another on the way! She enjoys spending time with her family, volunteering in the community through the PTA, and contributing her efforts to many other local events.
Resources:
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/vets/womenveterans
https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/WOMENSHEALTH/materials-and-resources/index.asp
https://news.va.gov/category/women-veterans/
https://www.history.com/news/veterans-day-quotes-wars