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Boot camps tips

Before you go to boot camp, be sure you have taken care of the every-day issues in your life. Check with your recruiter if you have questions or are unsure about how to handle any of the following matters:

Who will receive your mail?
How will your bills be paid while you are gone?
Does your family have access to your finances? Bank accounts, etc.
Does someone know what bills are due and when?
Does your family know whom to contact in the event of an emergency?
What other things could pop up in the time you are away?
Have you set up a bank account prior to your arrival?

Here are some great tips for once you begin boot camp.

1. Shut Up and Listen

The basic rule of thumb is that recruits should be seen and not heard. Another way of putting it: when it comes to your Drill Instructors, don't speak until spoken to.

2. Pick Me

Be careful what you wish for. Standing out can have its rewards, but it is a double-edged sword. You won't likely be asked to volunteer for a leadership assignment, like squad leader, but if they pick you, you will find yourself responsible for not only your own performance but also those in your squad

3. You Don't Make the Rules

Don't argue with your Drill Instructors, EVER! There is no way on earth that you will win, and it will no doubt cost you in terms of extra PT.

4. Help Your Buddy

You will live, eat, sleep, fight and die as a team. That Army of One stuff is a bunch of bologna. The sooner you learn to work as a team, the sooner life will get better for you.

5. Break the Rules at Your Own Risk

There are very few rules (no smoking, no going to the movies, no drinking alcohol, etc.) unique to Boot Camp, but they do expect you to follow them.