Hi,

Thanks for your message.

I can still remember my first week, quite vividly because it really wasn't what I was expecting. I'd seen the films and had a pre-conceived notion as to what it was going to be like. And it really couldn't have been further from the truth.

I was spoken to decently and my questions/concerns answered well. Don't get me wrong, it was busy busy busy and you'll be pushed from pillar to post trying to get all this stuff done. But you start to make friends really quick because you are all in the same situation, and it teaches you to rely on others, and be mature and responsible enough for them to also rely on you.

It's all 'admin' (administration) your first week. Getting sized up for kit, haircuts (yep, good ol' buzz cut), getting used to getting up early (very), getting lockers ready for inspection every morning etc, and just getting used to being in the Military.

The permanent staff (those who will be training you) know the score and it does little to shout and scream at people who have no idea what's going on (that's what differs us from other military units in the world), you're given every chance to learn and develop in a rapid space of time and there may come a point (when/if), you haven't listened or tried to cut corners or pushed your luck and been cheeky (or worst of all...lied), then expect to be disciplined appropriately.

You're no longer a civilian, remember that. You are now being held to values and standards of a much higher level, and rightly so, because of the job we do.

Trust me, don't worry about it. If I can do it, you can too. And if you're 'urming' and 'erring' about it, go for it. You have nothing to lose. You never know, you might just find an amazing career in the process.

Hope that helps, need anything else just reply to this post.

Take it easy,

ps. the fun starts week 2 ;)

19 October, 2023 09:00