Lottjam

Hello All. I've been following these forums for awhile, and they're really handy for information on both VocRe and the Caregiver Program. I applied to the VocRe program, and before my question I'm going to list the steps and processes that I remember in case other folks have any questions on how things went down. I know every situation is different, but from what I understand this is the basic process for most, too. 01 - Applied. 02 - Interviewed at VA Administration Center (not Health Facility) 03 - Completed required tests (You can view them here) 04 - Met with VocRe Counselor, discussed employment possibilities that are in alignment with test results 05 - Agreed on Librarian, discussed necessary credentials for employment 06 - Determined MS in Library Science as necessary, signed contract for BS in Anthropology 07 - Obtained written proof of agreement to become Librarian in original documents 08 - Obtained recorded audio proof of agreement with consent from first VocRe Rep 09 - Began School 10 - Assigned new VocRe rep with bad reputation 11 - Obtained writtten proof and audio proof of agreement for employment track of Librarian (just in case) 12 - Discussed moving to other state for MS completion - VA will NOT cover move (is at personal expense) - Current location's VA needs new address to forward information to VA in other state 13 - Will graduate without issue Spring 2015, 14 - Need to apply for MS program after graduation 15 - 1 year waiting period for answer from MS program Now, my questions are as follows: a.) Am I allowed to find some sort of job to tide over the financial gap during that one year, or will that negate my involvement in the program? b.) If I am allowed, is there a limit to the financial income before it is considered "gainful and/or substantial employment" and eliminates me from the program? c.) After completion of the program, will my compensation rate (currently at 60%) be lowered? I ask this because my VocRe Representative says that it will not and that the rate is mine basically until the day I die; however my brother (who has just completed the program) has assured me that ratings will lower my disability percentage after one year of employment. d.) Did I really manage to miss all this in the contract, or is it hidden in some bill somewhere in the vast library of VA/federal documents? Thanks for any help you guys can provide. It is really appreciated.