From Service to Success: A Veteran's Journey at Apartment List

At Apartment List, we take pride in creating a workplace that values diversity, and that includes those who have served the United States as a member of the armed forces. In honor of Veterans Day, I spoke with Army veteran and Sr. Data Operations Specialist Kari Magnussen about her unique experiences and how her military service has shaped her career at Apartment List.

Kari, how long did you serve in the military? And what was your rank and role?

I served five years from 2005 to 2010 as a Sergeant. I enlisted and trained as a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Specialist. While serving I worked in Supply Logistics and as the company admin NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer).

What was your motivation to enlist in the military?

I felt it was a duty and needed a bigger purpose in life.

Can you share your fondest memory from your time in the service?

One memory I have is the very last ruck march (10-12 miles with 40 lbs) during basic training, after being in the field for 3-4 days. Just knowing basic was almost over, was a great feeling!

Also, seeing the sunsets and sunrises in Hawaii. 🙂

What’s an experience from your time in the service that influenced you on a personal level, and explain how it shaped the person you are today?

When my son was 2, I was deployed to Iraq for a year. Not being there for certain milestones or having consistent communication was tough. That year made me really appreciate some of the smaller things in life that we sometimes take for granted.

What skills did you develop in the military, and how do they complement your role at Apartment List?

During my time in the Army, I developed an attention to detail. Many times tiny details can make a task successful or not. Taking in all the details helps me analyze information and recognize the improvements needed.

As a veteran, how does the Apartment List culture support you and your family’s priorities?

Apartment List’s virtual first culture has allowed me to be more flexible with my day and spend more quality time with my family. I used to work 9 to 5 with an hour commute. Now I’m able to be at their school functions and see my youngest off the bus every day.

Now that Apartment List has designated Veterans Day as a company holiday, do you have any special plans?

I plan on attending my daughter’s school for a Veterans Day parade and reception.

Thank you Kari for sharing with us. We appreciate your service to our country. Apartment List would like to wish Kari and all of our A-List veterans a Happy Veterans Day! 🇺🇸

If you would like to learn more about the open positions at Apartment List, head to our careers page.