Military service can be rewarding and life-changing.To get there, you have to pass boot camp.Even though no recruit will deny the challenge of getting through boot camp, it still is something you can handle with some basic studying and training.You should remind yourself that boot camp teaches you discipline, trust, and self-confidence.You can survive boot camp if you learn some qualities.
Step 1: Make an appointment with a military person.
While a recruiters job is to get you to sign your name on the dotted line, they are also there to help you succeed.The military has a website where you can find a list of recruiters.You have plenty of time to meet them in person if you call the recruiters.As you begin the enlistment process, use this opportunity to clear up any questions you have.Think of your boss as you interview for a job.You would not sign up for a job if you didn't know anything about it.Recruiters want dedicated applicants who are interested in learning more about the job.Why should I join, what is combat training like, and what comes after basic training are some of the questions you can ask.
Step 2: The government gives new recruits benefits.
The challenge of boot camp may be sweetened by a few perks.Signing-on bonuses or guaranteed promotions are offered by many recruiters.Before you sign any papers, you should talk to the recruiter.Even if you take a bonus, you will still start with basic training regardless of your rank.Write down any potential bonuses on paper.They should be in your enlistment contract.A verbal promise isn't enough to guarantee an incentive.If you want to do a specific job in the military, recruiters can help reserve spots in training schools for you.You do not have to sign anything right away if you can't get a guarantee.If you really want to join a specific branch of the military, contact other branches to see what they have to offer.Wait and see if the military can give a guarantee at a later date.
Step 3: The required identification documents should be brought to the job interview.
They will tell you how to get the documents you need after you contact them.You should expect a personal ID, education records, and legal documents for any marriages or children you have had.These documents will be used by the recruiters to confirm your identity.If you weren't born in the country, proof of citizenship can be found on a green card.If you want to serve in the U.S., bring along a driver's license or Social Security card.Marriage, divorce, and birth certificates are required to make sure you don't have legal problems.You will need court documents to pay child support.College transcripts, GEDs, and high school diplomas are required for education records.For enlistment, these are required.
Step 4: Tell the truth if you have any medical or legal issues.
They can keep you out of the military if you think these will be a problem.Lying will get you in more trouble.The military will eventually find out through a drug test or background check.It's a good idea to be up front with your recruiters to improve your chances of joining.You shouldn't stop taking your doctor's prescribed medication.These are important for your health.Any medication you need is provided by the military at boot camp.If a recurring medical issue or mental illness affects your ability to serve as a soldier, your application may be rejected.If you still qualify for enlistment, ask for a waiver.Criminal convictions are not an automatic disqualifier.If you show that you are serious about succeeding in the military, you can get in.
Step 5: The military requires you to take a test.
In the U.S., the test is called the ASVAB.Militaries across the world use these types of tests to determine what jobs their recruits are best suited for.You take tests in math, science, language, and mechanical knowledge.To set up the test, speak to your recruiter.You don't have to fail the test, but low scores mean you may not get the job you want.Discuss your options with your recruiters.You don't have to rush to take the test.Take your scores again before you sign up for boot camp.
Step 6: You have to pass a military fitness test.
You know boot camp is going to be a challenge to your body, so you won't be surprised by the fitness test.Most military fitness tests are very easy to do.You have to do as many push ups as you can in a couple of minutes.You try to run a long distance as fast as you can.If you don't meet the military's high bar, do your best during the test.A preliminary screening is what this is.You will get more exercise in boot camp.If you want to improve your chances of passing, you need to be fit.You are less likely to be accepted into the military if you struggle a lot or have health issues.
Step 7: You must attend boot camp within a month of completing your tests.
The Oath of Enlistment is required to get to boot camp.If you have been accepted, you will be called into the office at least a week after the testing, paperwork, and career discussions are complete.You are immediately sent to boot camp after you recite the oath.The military will tell you what you need to bring.You usually don't need much more than a small amount of money, personal identification, and a change of clothing.You can ask for a delayed entry.You can go to boot camp at a later date.
Step 8: Prepare your body by exercising as much as possible.
Carry heavy equipment and run long distances.The more fit you are before basic training, the better you will be.If you improve your physical capabilities, you will have a leg up on other recruits.Being overweight or lacking strength can make you a target for drill instructors who need to work you into shape.If you aren't able to meet the physical demands of boot camp, you have to go through it a second time or be discharged.
Step 9: If you want to go to boot camp, you should improve your swimming abilities.
Military members benefit from swimming practice.You will have a hard time completing several activities if you can't swim by the time you arrive at boot camp.Work on your speed and endurance while swimming in a pool.The military does not have an official swimming test, so you will not be sent home from boot camp.You have to learn before you can go to boot camp.Training drills can help recruits learn or get better.Members of other branches still need to know how to swim, even though swimming is important in branches like the Navy or Marines.
Step 10: There are basic drill routines used in boot camp.
A part of the activities you will do is fitness tests.During boot camp, you will see a lot of drills.Instructors test you on your ability to act.As your instructor barks out commands, stand upright and pretend that you are marching.The laundry basket should be filled with clothing, books, notepads, and other items.Dump the basket onto the floor, mix up the items, then quickly sort them on your bed.The military expects you to do this kind of test.Try sitting on the floor with your legs crossed, your back straight, and your hands on your knees.You may be required to sit for hours at a time in boot camp.
Step 11: If you want to wake up early, get to bed earlier.
The life of a recruit includes rigid scheduling.You should get up around 4:00 AM in boot camp.It can be very difficult at first.Training like any other skill is required to adapt to a sleep schedule.Getting used to waking early in the morning is important for the first day of boot camp.You should start adjusting your sleep schedule at least 2 weeks in advance.Give yourself more time to adjust by starting earlier.The first 3 days of boot camp are busy, so you may not get as much sleep as you want.It is possible to get a good night's rest.
Step 12: There is information relating to military work.
Recruiters can recommend books for study.You can learn the basics, such as military rankings, standard equipment, commands used by superior officers, and your branch's creed or motto.When you are put on the spot in boot camp, learning all of this in advance can reduce some of the stress.If it is relevant to your work in the military, you don't need to know how to fire guns or have other specialized knowledge.Studying for a specific military duty can help you succeed.If you want to become a mechanic, you should read up on cars.
Step 13: Follow orders while staying quiet.
Discipline is what military life is about.You are expected to take orders from your drill instructors when you arrive at camp.Don't try to stand out too much, do what they say without complaint, and keep your head down.Don't argue with your instructors, joke around, or otherwise step out of line.Most drill instructors don't like tearing you down in front of other recruits.They are supposed to be a thorn in your side so that you improve as a recruit.Unless you're talking to your superior officers, don't speak.
Step 14: If you are given any tasks, focus on them.
The military expects you to follow orders even if they are unrelated to what you signed up for.You will be asked to do things that you would rather not do.Do it when asked, whether you are scrubbing a toilet or marching with your platoon.You start getting orders when you arrive at boot camp.Getting your uniform, setting up your pay, and moving into your room are some of the things that go through processing.A recruit would rather sleep in or talk with friends than fulfill their duties.There will be plenty of time for this later.
Step 15: Do what everyone else is doing.
There are times when you may not be paying attention to instructions.You should take your cue from other recruits.Follow their lead if you see everyone else doing the same thing.If you blend in, you can avoid critique from your drill instructor.Unless your instructor is out of earshot, don't ask other recruits what to do.The instructor will catch you, pull you out of line, and give you an earful.Don't smile if you get caught doing the wrong thing, bear the criticism all the same.
Step 16: Help other recruits with leadership qualities.
Good recruits are noticed by drill instructors, who aren't looking for people acting like movie stars.Remember that you are part of a unit and have your partner with you.Speak to other recruits in your unit and remind them of what they are doing wrong.When your drill instructor asks you to speak loudly, stand straight with your chin held high, and work quickly.If you want to be a leader, avoid alienating yourself from your fellow recruits.Balance being a leader and a friend.Jerks might not get help from their fellow recruits.You will be in the same position as every other recruit.A lot of what you are asked to do won't make sense at first.The recruits rely on each other to succeed during boot camp.
Step 17: Even if you don't like them, get along with them.
Instructors and recruits will greet you at boot camp.Not all of them will be your best friend.When you serve in the military, you quickly learn to get along with everyone.You should remind yourself that you are all in this together.Even if one recruit fails, your group will still be punished.Help people who are struggling.At some point, they will help you as well.Do not allow drill instructors to pit you against other recruits.It is a test.If you want to achieve individual glory, don't make yourself stand out this way.After lights out, talk to someone you have a problem with.
Step 18: You shouldn't make excuses for your mistakes.
When you don't know if you did anything wrong, drill instructors will call you out.If you make a mistake, look the instructor in the eye and tell them the truth.They may make you do a few push ups, but punishment is often worse when you don't take responsibility for your actions.You can't travel without permission."I didn't know" will not help you.Not knowing could lead to injury for you or someone else.Tell the drill instructors what you did and accept the consequences.disobeying your drill instructor is a mistake that can reflect poorly on your unit.You will lose friends if other recruits are punished with you.
Step 19: Try to pass the tests the hardest you can.
Basic training tests are designed to be difficult to pass.Don't despair if you're struggling to get over a wall in an obstacle course.Do your best and practice later.The task will become easier as time goes on.The purpose of these tests is to break you down and build you up with more confidence and discipline than you have ever had before.It can be rewarding.If you feel like you can't succeed, give it your best shot.Good recruits don't need to finish tests in the first place.