Serving in a New Capacity

Paris Jackson’s biggest concern as she prepared to retire from the Army was finding a new purpose. She prayed and asked God to show her where she was needed next. A financial manager in the military, Jackson found her new purpose helping others build wealth and security for their retirement as a financial advisor for Northwestern Mutual.

“I was introduced to this field by my financial advisor. I stayed because I realized there was such a need. I had an opportunity to serve in a different capacity,” Jackson said.

She shared her experience in transitioning from the military, her civilian career, and her best advice for you.

Where did you grow up?

Charleston, S.C.

Why did you volunteer to serve?

I have a family full of service members. Both parents served, all three of my brothers served. Most of my aunts, uncles and cousins have served in every branch of the military.

What was your military job?

I was a financial manager. I ensured the accuracy of soldiers’ military pay. I managed a portion of the Department of Defense budget ($2 billion) and led soldiers to prepare for combat.

What was your biggest fear as you prepared to transition from the military?

Losing the camaraderie and family environment of the Army.

What did your biggest challenge turn out to be?

Identifying my new purpose.

How did you overcome this challenge?

Prayer and asking God to lead me because I knew I wanted to be where I was needed.

Why did you choose this career field?

I was introduced to this field by my financial advisor. I stayed because I realized there was such a need. I had an opportunity to serve in a different capacity.

Is it your first job out of the military?

Yes.

Please summarize your current job.

I help people identify what is blocking their path to wealth and legacy, develop disciplined ways to overcome those hurdles, build or rebuild a solid foundation and chart the path to ensure they can retire, not go back to work and leave a legacy.

How does your military training and experience help you in your civilian career?

My military training has developed the adequate amount of patience, leadership and customer service skills to go above and beyond for my clients.

What do you love about your job?

I love problem solving, seeing people smile and watching the weight being lifted off a client’s shoulders during the toughest times in their lives.

What’s the biggest challenge?

Contending with the heart versus mindset! Knowing someone can improve their life, who wants to improve, but won’t commit to the necessary changes.

How would you characterize the pay and benefits?

The biggest benefit is flexibility. There is so much opportunity to serve people and be there for my family. After serving for 22 years, it is a benefit that can’t be traded for income.

What days and hours do you typically work?

I don’t have typical work hours. I try my best to provide service around the client’s schedule. I typically leave the weekend for family time.

Would you recommend this career field and industry to transitioning service members or veterans?

Absolutely. There are so many veterans who can use someone who intimately knows what they need and how to ensure they can prepare and transition no matter how long they have served.

What do you wish you knew when you transitioned from the military that you know now?

Having permanent life insurance earlier in my career.

What mistakes would you urge transitioning service members to avoid?

I would urge service members to have a written financial plan, ensure they have an adequate emergency fund for the transition, and ensure they have a personal life insurance policy.

What do you do to relax?

Shop, read, pretend I’m Bobby Flay and bowl!

What about you would surprise most people?

My favorite cuisine is Korean.

Read this full article and more in the April 2025 Issue of G.I. Jobs magazine.