[Samsung Epic 4G Touch] garwynn:
Not always true, many get bumped up if a slot opens. I was told several months and actually went 4 weeks after signing my paperwork.

And since there's two of you please allow me to give some advice prior to going. Jd and others feel free to add on.

I gave the same advice to a person in 2006 and they're doing quite well now.

(Since it's a long post I'm using the hide feature.)

Things to do before you go:

1. Make sure any bills are addressed for a minimum of 3 months while you are gone.

Maybe overkill but it will reduce your stress if you're not worrying about other things.

You can always address once you're in your technical training when you have a little more flexibility.

2. Set up 2 to 3 people you want to reach out to while gone, especially in Basic.

Time on the phone is VERY limited so find people who can pass the word on for you.

You will have more than enough on your plate to deal with.

3. Haven't exercised in a while? Start now.

The more you're in shape that's one less thing to stress about.

I believe everyone is still doing the 2 mile run, pushups and situps as a minimum for fitness evals.

4. Prepare yourself mentally and physically.

Instructors cannot touch you but they will get within an inch of your face.

You will be pushed mentally and/or physically for 18 hours a day non-stop for 6 to 9 weeks, depending on branch.

Also try and find an obstacle course and start going through those to get in that mindset.

My key to success? I went in expecting a mix of Full Metal Jacket combined with Shawshank Redemption.

What I mean by that is you need to be up for a verbal assault like nothing else

and having to take it without dishing back.

If you're thin-skinned for insults and comments like that you had better learn how to lock that up now.

My instructors were cool in the end but they will be the first to tell you they have a job to do and will do it well.

Used to 3 square meals and taking your time? Here's a training tip.

First few days you'll be lucky to get 5 minutes per meal to inhale your food - but always drink your fluids first.

If you have access to a surplus store, try and get your hands on an MRE.

Also - if you ask people "Can I help you" start replacing that with "May I help you."

Get used to that now to avoid another minor headache - and your instructor asking you to go get some fast food for them.

5. Packing - This excludes your uniforms if you already got them.

For personal belongings take the clothes on your back. That's it - no phone, no computer, nothing that you don't need.

Jewelry - same thing. You will get everything else at Basic and believe me, you'll be glad you didn't pack much.

(You have to keep everything in neat military fashion so the less you have to maintain the better.)

Cell phones and other stuff have people send to you when you get to technical training.

6. Ever made your bed with hospital corners or so tight you can bounce a quarter off it?

Learn tips and tricks now to help with this daily task in training. You'll be glad you did.

You might even be able to get the felt blanket from a surplus store if one is around.

During Basic:

1. They'll ask if you have previous (JROTC/ROTC) experience.

They do this because you will often end up in a leadership role - and responsible for your team's actions.

If you're ready for a new level of stress while in go right ahead. Otherwise don't worry about mentioning it.

2. Band experience will get you into the Drum and Bugle corps. I hear it is an additional demand and more stress.

Again, if they ask if you have this experience decide for yourself if that's something you want to face.

3. This one is very important and I didn't learn about this until afterwards. GI Bill versus Student Loan payoff

There are pluses and minuses to both - but here's a secret that was at least good when I was in.

You can get the student loans paid off on your first enlistment and pay for your GI Bill benefits on your first re-enlistment.

Hopefully some of the guys still active duty can confirm if that's still the case.

Mattix, I'm not sure how that would work for reserves so I would check with an active reservist if you can.

If you are given the option for the additional benefits by paying the extra amount... TAKE IT.

With the "old" (Chapter 30) GI bill this covered you for stuff not always covered. Not sure how it works with Post-9/11.

Again, hope someone still in can add onto this.

4. Keep all of your paperwork secure and when you can, make a copy of it.

Some of that paperwork, such as GI Bill election and "top up" is your only copy and proof of eligibility for benefits.

You will need that in the future.

5. If you are religious you will be given an option to attend and/or support services.

I highly recommend doing this as it will give you a few hours to "decompress" from the stresses of Basic.

Also beats detail duty.

6. Making your bed. Some suggest hooking onto the bottom of the bed frame.

Sounds good until the instructor "tosses the bay" and you end up with a ripped blanket.

Again, the more you practice this before training the easier it should make it during.

When you crash for the night, don't undo the bed. Slip into it and try not to mess it up.

If you're good enough at it you may not have to do much the next morning.

(Didn't work for me but has for others.)