When you are 16, you receive the first decree by mail, basically saying that from now on, the army's watching you and therefore you cannot study abroad nor do whatever you feel like without asking for permission. At your first encounter with army authorities you're measured, weighed, tested, in order to determine your medical situation and intelligence. You haven't slept all night and you're as nervous as everyone else is. They lead you to a big room and order to change your clothes immediately. After the first day, you begin basic training.
Military service is never an easy thing.
Some serve in combat units, some serve at the home front. Some fight, some type, some clean, some work on computers. Israel has been drafting soldiers since the day it was created. In any case, through the difficulties, the hard times and the long duration of service, the army does some helpful stuff, too. Many people who serve in combat units, claim that there are no friendships like the ones made there, and no skills can be compared with those you acquire as a commander or officer.