This helped me a lot believe it or not. Your positive outlook on BCT gave me some hope. I ship out next Tuesday, and I'm only 17. So thank you for the advice. It means a lot.
I am so glad you shared about basic training! I am joining the National Guard and I didn't know what to expect because I knew no one who was in the National Guard! So, Thank you so much!!
As a male, I am looking for vids for my wife. She and I are both join the National Guard here in NC. Your videos are refreshing and I love your attitude. The respect you have for your superiors is amazing, and I think you'll really help my wife in her time of getting to know these regulations.
I'm currently an Army Recruiter. Thanks for making a channel like this. I always push the truth, good bad and ugly about the Army. I will encourage new enlistees to check this out
A young lady from Puerto Rico was the honor graduate at my basic training. She shot Expert- 36 out of 40 targets hit on the rifle range, She had better than perfect scores in physical fitness (the extended scale) she ran 11 minutes in the 2 mile, did 120+ push ups and 120+ situps, 2 minutes each event. As honor graduate she received awards for promotion points in the future as well as an automatic promotion at the end of basic training. She was maybe 130lbs soaking wet and about 5'6''. Looked like your average Suzy Q. Next best soldier was my battle buddy, he looked like Hercules- ripped to shreds and barely contained in a uniform. He beat her in pushups only, he did around 140. She crushed his run time by a minute and beat his situps by 20 or so. This was in 2001 before the crossfit craze. In other words, you can do it if you choose to. Dont be afraid of hard work, sweat, pain and blood at times. My best advice is to start walking around with a heavy backpack and a shitty pair of boots on. Good luck.
Youre awesome, its so cool how optimistic you are about it and how you toke the situtation and flipped it to make it somthing great. Its not easy to do that
I am planning on joining the Army next summer and going into the reserves, then switching to active duty after college. This video was wonderful, thank you so much.
+Maria Diaz It's going to happen to you no matter what you do. But the biggest advice that I could give you is to fly under the radar. Don't talk unless you are spoken to. Do what the Drill Sergeants tell you and do it with a purpose. Haul ass everywhere and you should be fine.
Like he said, no matter what you do, you will get yelled at. My tip for you is to remember that it isn't personal, it's a job. Your DI will go home at the end of the day and not think twice about it.
Went through it! Wasn't even terrified of them yelling, mainly missed my family first time ever leaving home! Such a great experience, and made great friends who I still keep in touch with! No regrets at all
they are only screaming at you to stress you out and mentally prepare you when you are in combat to act and listen when you are under alot of stress its, just dont worry
I dont know much about air force, but were you debating between active duty or air national guard? Working out before basic is VERY helpful..practice running, situps, pushups, and pullups if you can! They do ease you into the workouts (PT) at first too.
Am retired after 27 years in the Army Reserve (and three deployments). Enjoyed BCT (1980/1981) Ft. Jackson, SC. Wonderful experience. Was an older recruit, so I was not psyched out by the yelling and screaming, but savored every moment. Great video, and I agree that I would prefer a male drill sergeant.
Hi Stephanie, I was 27 when I enlisted and I was married. So had two years of college and life experience. So I was not a typical recruit. Plus, my dad was a career soldier, so I had some idea what the army was all about. I had never run or done much physical exercise in my life, but made it through. The drill sergeants were experienced soldiers and maintained their professionalism throughout. I saw female soldiers throw themselves at the drill sergeants trying to gain favor, but never once saw any compromising conduct, although I know that these types of things have happened. Sexual abuse happens every where, but I can say as a former army Sexual Assault Councilor, there are more protections in the military than in civilian life. The ramifications on one's professional career are more severe than in the civilian life. So if you want a military career (active duty or reserve) go for it.
Thank you for your response Evelyn... :) I am leaving for BCT in March provided my tattoo removal goes according to plan :) and it seems as though it is all working out.. I am 34 so I am right at the limit, but I am fit and I work out on a regular basis... I wanted to go active army but I am a single mom and those chances are very slim to say the least... :(
this video helped me so much before i left for basic nearly one year ago now :) i went to jackson in the winter and let me tell you guys, IT IS REALLY REALLY COLD IN SC IN THE WINTER. like holy crap. anyway, i miss it so much and would also go back to basic if they would let me :) and also.. RESERVES HOOAH ...lol
Hey, I just wanted to say that your video got me so excited to go to boot camp! I leave in a few months and I am so glad I looked on here for basic advice and videos! Thank you your awesome
Your positive attitude made me really excited to leave for basic I'am going to Ft. Benning soon and was pretty nervous on what to expect, this video made me feel a lot better thank you
I was surprised to see a "Cute Girl" discussing army life. The military females I have met are more of the Tom Boy type. Great description and it differs from what is on TV such as "Full Metal Jacket" or "Stripes" and my favorite was the girl in Seal Training (forgot the title).
I am terrified of needles too but you gotta get plenty of shots! Probably at least 4-5 in basic training. The worst for me was getting my blood drawn though, yuck! You can have midol for cramps in basic training, they sell it at the PX so you will have several opportunities to buy it there. I had time to shave my legs at basic, but other units didnt allow razors! Depends on your drill sergeants!
Think and do research. If you go active it is a big commitment, Same if you are reserve, I can answer questuons I am a college grad enlisted in the reserves.
This video was so helpful! I am leaving for basic training in a few weeks and I am so nervous but this video answered most of my questions as well as making me feel a lot less anxious since I know more of what to expect. Thank you so much!
Girls, don't cut your hair short! I was told by a sergeant that I had to get mine cut above the collar, but that was not true (I had hair almost down to my waist before basic training). As long as you keep it up and off your collar in a French braid, pony tail, bun, etc. then you are ok.
+A modern day warrior. Mean, mean stride. Today's Tom Sawyer. Mean, mean pride. We had a guy in my platoon with long hair. He was forced to have a net covering his hair, until he either got it cut, or braided it in a specific way. ( Yes, the military forces women to braid their hair either one way or the other, you're not free to choose really )
HOOAH to you, Soldier! I spent 22 years in the Army National Guard with 2 deployments. It's great to see young people like yourself giving a positive perspective on the military, especially the basic training side. Hopefully other young men and women who see this will get a better understanding and know what to expect. Keep up the good work. HOOAH!!!
+Pat Alvarez I would not be at basic training trying to take bc pills. If I was you, I would get the shot or something that lasts the length of time you are going to be gone to basic. I will tell you first hand, it sucks going thru basic with cycle, and pads. TRUST ME!!
meep meep with me having my cycle every 20 days for 6 days at a time i doubt any medicine they have will stop it. do you know if women have to share tampons and atuff at basic? or they keep their own
Share tampons? You buy your own tampons. Having gone through basic with my cycle.. it sucked. I wish I did some kind of birth control to stop my cycle during that time, so I didn't have to fuss with all that at basic. lol But it is do-able it just was a pain in the butt.
BCT can be a vastly different experience for individuals depending on where you go and your MOS. Thank you for sharing your experience and giving your insights from the female perspective l.
I went to basic training in the Army myself about three years ago and some of the stuff this girl is talking about I have to disagree with, particularly about the diet and the physical fitness. To put it bluntly, the food is of terrible quality, hardly any nutritional value at all. I'll dare say that the food in a high school cafeteria is better for you than the garbage the Army gives you. As far as the Army's physical fitness is concerned, it is a total joke. This girl says in this video that you'll be in the best shape of your life, well I strongly disagree. I actually came out in worse shape because the training program I have for myself at home is much more challenging and more intensive. Plus, I lost muscle mass in the Army because the pt is just too watered down.
I spent 20 years in the Military and the food is excellent. No complaints. You can get as much as you want but you do have a small amount of time to consume it in training. Much of what she says is on point. Basic training is the best time you will have in the Military. The rest is just a job.
Ronald Crumpton I guess I must have higher standards than you regarding diet and nutrition because, like I said, the food I eat is home grown and homemade and the pt regiment I have for myself in the civilian world is much more beneficial to me physically. In fact, numerous other male soldiers I trained with had the same gripes that I have about these things.
I was a WAC back in the 70s. I admire you for choosing to serve! When you get much older, the memories will always be with you, so save all your journals, medals, commendations and all that now! I also served in the reserves after the Army. It was a life changing experience!!!
I go to Fort Jackson on September 15th for basic training. I'm super nervous and wasn't sure what to expect but this has helped me calm slot if those nerves knowing what to expect so thank you. :)
@kuhleskind I am 22. You would have to go to AIT, but you can do the split option where you go to Basic Training during the summer, then AIT the following summer. AIT was so much fun!
This was so helpful! Even though I'm not enlisting in the Army, I really appreciated the insight. I'm probably going to do OCS for either Army or the Marines. Great video and thank you for your service to this country!
Loved your video, one of my closest friends, who is a female, is at basic right now. I couldn't really give her any tips since I went to Benning, and there are literally no females on Sand Hill.
Really neat to hear what Basic is like for folks now. I went to Fort Knox in 1996; there were no females around and chapstick and cough drops were considered contraband. We didn't have phones or anything to worry about back then but letters were really special. We never got 8 hours of sleep though; lights out was at 2300 and we were up at 4:30am with formation at 5am for PT. We spent our evenings shining boots, pressing uniforms, writing letters, studying, practicing, doing laundry, etc. But the majority of it sounds pretty much the same. I'd love to go back to Basic if I could too.
I admire you for having such a positive outlook about your experience! Every time you said it felt like summer camp and you loved it, I kept thinking about how much I'd hate not being able to wear makeup, having to shovel my food in and not smile! I guess I'm just wimpy!
in Canada we have something called army cadets and when I was 13 I went away for 2 weeks for general training and I was scared shitless. I didn't cry but shit man, it was scary, especially being a little kid and not knowing anyone outa the 800 kids attending GT. plus to make it worse it was on a really ghetto base and there was a gang that beat GT kids
That was such a great video! I love your positive attitude and it really shows. My husband is AD and has the same feelings about a lot of the women in charge as you do, have something to prove and catty, which makes them unpleasant to be/work with. We have many female friends that are in and aren't that way, but in general they don't seem make a career out of it, the ones that do must be more likely to act that way. I found your channel through Ingrid and am glad I did!
This was perfect. I have been so nervous about shipping out! That was extremely helpful and supportive, I feel like i can get through it now! Thank you!
I actually like your video. It is refreshing to hear a positive attitude. It sounds like you WANTED (which is important) to be at basic training. I think you (as did I many years ago) breezed through the new experience. It seems like you will do well for as long as you wish to serve. I wish you well in your military career. 파이팅!!
Omg!! You remind me just like myself! I am a huge girly girl with blonde hair and a positive mentality! This video has helped so much and I hope to meet people like you in basic!!!
this was really interesting for me even though i dont live in the us and probably will never enlist in the military. that being said, i really admire you for your courage and strength in supporting your country, you're very inspirational :)
Yes, the risk with joining the military is that you could be deployed, but if you arent sure where you are going in life, joining the military provides great experiences and education! Just make sure to choose an MOS you actually enjoy!
you are definitely right about some females cannot cope at first or not at all. One of my recruiters told me about one who THE very first night hid in a bush! needless to say she got sent home right away and denied enlistment in future for any branch. I am not yet in the military however the best thing to do is what you said is learn to cope,do as your told, and just do what you can and know you can do it. It is only temporary but you need to know what to expect when you get out. The majority of my family is military so it kinda helps to know what to expect. It is not for everyone but it does not mean you can't try. thank you for this vid it helps a lot :) .
I'm shipping out to Fort Jackson in April. As a female with the same perspective, this video really helped me visualize and prepare myself for BCT. Thanks for being professional, informative, and candid about your approach. I will admit, I initially saw a pretty girl and thought it would be a generic, sophomoric view, but I appreciate your ability to be fluent and efficient.
This video helped me alot with this... I watched some videos that kinda scared me. I just graduated high school last may and everyones been pressuring me to go to college. I have good grades for it but I just hate sitting in a classroom; I rather be active. So im planning on signing up for the national guard sometime this fall :)
I am going into the army basic training on january 8th I am going into millitary intelligence... I am so glad that you posted this video.. at this moment i am nervious and excited.. this video actualy helped calm my nerves.. =)
I started tearing up watching this. It made me realize that I can join and that I can do it. I told my family and we're going to a recruiters office this week. I'm scared out of my mind but its something I wanna do and you made me realize that I can. Thank you so much for doing this video.
Thank you soooooo much I feel so much better...my husband is army for over 25 years but its a total different feeling now that our daughter wants to join
I dont think your tattoos can extend past a certain point on your arms (maybe your wrists) - talk to a recruiter, they can look at your tattoos and know for sure!
Thanks so much for this video! It was really reassuring for me! My husband is active duty and we are stationed in Ft. Lewis Washington right now and I am thinking I am going to join the Army and go active as well. The only thing I am scared about is basic but this did help a lot! I am such a baby especially when someone criticizes me, like I have a feeling I will just cry if they say anything mean to me lol. But you really helped me realize that I CAN do it, and I should!
I brought my cell phone to basic! They lock it up while you are there, and you can use it for phone calls home when allowed. My parents brought a bag of my civilian clothes to my BCT graduation and I brought it to AIT with me.
If you have drill prior to shipping to basic training for the Army reserves, typically it will just be an introduction to your unit, maybe participating in some activities and talking with the other soldiers in your unit. Nothing scary!
I agree with ebee. BCT/AIT or OSUT compaired to actual Army life is somewhat different besides the pt every morning. Most I can say is that you will be mentally and physically pushed to your limits. It will be hard at times like she says but the DSs' will not allow you to quit on yourself. Something made you want to join the Army or the military in general so use that to your advantage. Stay strong and I wish you luck with your choice.
You put a lot of things into perspective for me. I'm going to see a recruiter tomorrow and I'm really nervous but you definitely eased a lot of those nerves. Thanks:-)
I went to BCT/AIT in 2000 at Ft. LeonardWood, Missouri. We were not permitted to keep our weapons. They had to be returned to the armory after each exercise. Also, some basic trainees will stay at the same location after BCT and continue on with AIT with no break at all. It depends on your MOS. MPs do all of their BCT and AIT together broken up into 5 phases, not just 3, and then won't graduate anything until after their AIT in phases 4 & 5. Make sure you look into that for another video. KUDOS!
I remember being in the Marine Corps boot camp. It was worth it. Nothing can prepare you to get into any branch of military. The best thing to remember, I switched branches to the Army recently, so I don't have to do their boot camp, however, remember always listen, and take action first.
hmm...every state offers different waivers, so I couldnt give you an exact answer. I am not sure which state you live in, but my advice would be to talk to a recruiter and see if you would be able to join!
Again, thank you SO much for your videos! I'm studying up and getting in shape -- hopefully I'll be in DEPs by next year. :) I smile too much too and I'm always worried that I'm not tough enough since I have to try hard not to take things personally. Thanks again! ~CJ
As a male and even as an Infantryman having gone through basic training with all males at Ft. Benning GA, yes it sucked but yes I can completely relate! We're all really on the same page when going from reception all the way to graduation. The homesickness, the desperation of urging to quit, enjoying the few minutes long phone calls and appreciating it all the smallest things and luxuries afterwards and not taking anything for granted anymore, it really is not much different than males for the exception of physical demand. Our mental breakdown of going through basic is all the same!
i went. i was scared to go but in my opinion it was defiantly worth it. its not gonna be easy either. and for the most part everything you do and all the pain you feel is all in your head. if you can overcome being scared and keep telling yourself that you can get thru this, then youll have no problem at getting thru basic at all. so sum it all up to answer your question, if you wonna be physically fit and mentally ready to take on anything in the world with confidence, then yes you should go
Emily, love your Basic Training accounts and hope to see many more videos from you. How about modelling some of your Army uniforms for your faithful viewers! xo Bob
I am going in too! My husband was in the Army but can go back in due to hearing and knee problems he got while deployed so now I'm going and couldn't be more excited! The only thing I am dreading is leaving my hubby and my two babies :( It's for my family though and I am happy to help make a good life for them!
I understand, im somewhat in shape but im like skinny like toothpicks in the arms.. I cant do a pushup either.. like 1 pushup is my max. So ill be working on it before I sign up this fall
I'm currently 16 years old. I've always had a thought sitting in the back of my mind about enlisting in a few years. Not only do I wanna serve and protect my country, I think doing it will help me mentally. You said in the video that you came out finding out things about yourself you didn't know before. I'm generally an unsocial person and very to myself. I think enlisting will help me find myself and will help me on so many different levels. Now I'm just debating if I can handle it or not. I originally plan on becoming a nurse but I definitely feel more positive about becoming apart of the US Army. Maybe.
I think u are mistaken on the 4 months without a shower statement. I'm infantry & currently deployed (Afghanistan) right now. My combat role takes me 2 "almost" all of the Army COB's/FOB's/bases in Afghanistan & even some USMC ones 2 & if I don't then my fellow NCO's cover the rest. We r responsible 4 all of Afghanistan. I've yet to c only a handful that don't have access 2 showers or water. Even if u meant 4 weeks that would be a stretch. Don't worry, he has access to showers. SSG B - 11Bravo
I was only 19 yrs old and I weighed only 100 lbs back then, but when we would go to the M-60 range and shoot M-60's I would do ok in the prone and kneeling position, but the standing position was difficult. I recall the D.I. standing behind me as I was struggling to hold up the weapon in my hands while in standing position. I fired the weapon and I fell backwards on my butt. The D.I. was laughing at me.... lol. He thought that was funny... hahaha!
Thank you for this! I needed it! :) You're awesome and a great role model, keep it up!! Have you ever had your period and cramping badly during basic training or at any other time? How do they handle that?
@seriouslytaryn11 I did go to college before joining, so I was a little older than many of the people I was in basic training with. I went during the winter though, so it was a little older of a group than if it was over the summer.
From my experience, my basic training was very different. No contract, instructors were never yelling or being mean and were always helpful. We never did anything that felt unimportant like practicing drill for hours on end, instead focusing on combat training. The only times where you were under alot of stress was during field exercises, lasting 5-9 days in the forrest, in the middle of nowhere. Those where the only times we really longed for home. Currently serving, Royal Swedish Armed Forces
glad to see you have the right mindset on basic especially for a female! i dont know alot of females that thought of basic the way you spoke about it! although my basic is going to be REAAAAL different from yours! HAHA! (going to Fort Benning for OSUT, MOS- Infantry) but good to hear you got through it! hope your experience in the army is going well!
This video is so awesome :) Thank you for sharing it. Before I registered for college, I really really wanted to join the army. But someone had told me that all the things that they guarantee you (i.e. income, # of years to serve, etc) are not promised. So I didn't join. I didn't even join ROTC b/c I felt that would interfere with my studies. Damn. I really want to do this.
thank you so much this video helped me alot im in going into the army and ive been kind of nervous about basic training but this video helped me not be so nervous
Yes! There were times when females were allowed to run to the bathroom if they got their period during training. All females were required to carry a pad with them at all times, just in case. I had my doctor write a script for birth control where I skipped periods, so I didnt have to deal with the hassle while I was at basic training! On Sundays, you are allowed to go to church in the morning, then the rest of the day you are cleaning the barracks and cleaning your weapons.
Thanks for sharing your experiences in basic training . I took my training at Fort Benning , Ga. in 1969 . I'm sure there were some differences from then but overall basic training is still basic training . I guess the main thing is the drill sergeants still yell at you and that will never change haha . One thing for sure is at the end of your training , man or woman you come out of it as an adult . Again thanks for sharing .
So, just for clarification -you CAN receive care packages at Fort. Jackson during BCT? I had heard from some people that you couldn't and some said you could, but none of them had gone to Fort Jackson specifically.
While sleeping in your barrack, was there any issues with sleeping if people snoring loudly?? I usually sleep with a fan on to drown out any noise at all. Was wondering if there were any issues of that matter.
I can speak only of myself and the ones I know, so that's reality to me judging from my own life experiences, not from books or action movies. I respect your point of view and hope you do the same.
This helped me a lot believe it or not. Your positive outlook on BCT gave me some hope. I ship out next Tuesday, and I'm only 17. So thank you for the advice. It means a lot.
How's army doing for you eh?
I am so glad you shared about basic training! I am joining the National Guard and I didn't know what to expect because I knew no one who was in the National Guard! So, Thank you so much!!
lol i dont get home sick i love being away from my family.
As a male, I am looking for vids for my wife. She and I are both join the National Guard here in NC. Your videos are refreshing and I love your attitude. The respect you have for your superiors is amazing, and I think you'll really help my wife in her time of getting to know these regulations.
Mista Jay Did you both ship out at the same time, or at the same time?
I'm currently an Army Recruiter. Thanks for making a channel like this. I always push the truth, good bad and ugly about the Army. I will encourage new enlistees to check this out
I was smiling throughout the video and that was a 16 minute video. You're awesome ! Thank you so all your advice !!!!!
A young lady from Puerto Rico was the honor graduate at my basic training. She shot Expert- 36 out of 40 targets hit on the rifle range, She had better than perfect scores in physical fitness (the extended scale) she ran 11 minutes in the 2 mile, did 120+ push ups and 120+ situps, 2 minutes each event. As honor graduate she received awards for promotion points in the future as well as an automatic promotion at the end of basic training. She was maybe 130lbs soaking wet and about 5'6''. Looked like your average Suzy Q. Next best soldier was my battle buddy, he looked like Hercules- ripped to shreds and barely contained in a uniform. He beat her in pushups only, he did around 140. She crushed his run time by a minute and beat his situps by 20 or so. This was in 2001 before the crossfit craze. In other words, you can do it if you choose to. Dont be afraid of hard work, sweat, pain and blood at times. My best advice is to start walking around with a heavy backpack and a shitty pair of boots on. Good luck.
+Andy you are so full of shit
+Andy "she did 120 pushups" yeah fucking right dude.
+mhotl Haters going to hate. lol I did around 100 pushups in 2 minutes. It's not impossible for a woman.
Heidi Adams Yeah, and I once jumped over a building. See how easy it is to claim things, when you don't have to prove what you're saying?
Its not impossible, but i think hes lying, he says 120+? Plus what? Hes trying to exaggerate, she probably did 80
Youre awesome, its so cool how optimistic you are about it and how you toke the situtation and flipped it to make it somthing great. Its not easy to do that
thank you so much for the video. im going to join the military too so thank you for the video. its nice to connect
I am planning on joining the Army next summer and going into the reserves, then switching to active duty after college. This video was wonderful, thank you so much.
how did you deal with getting yelled at? Do you have any tips on that? Im terrified of getting yelled at but I really want to enlist!!
+Maria Diaz It's going to happen to you no matter what you do. But the biggest advice that I could give you is to fly under the radar. Don't talk unless you are spoken to. Do what the Drill Sergeants tell you and do it with a purpose. Haul ass everywhere and you should be fine.
Like he said, no matter what you do, you will get yelled at. My tip for you is to remember that it isn't personal, it's a job. Your DI will go home at the end of the day and not think twice about it.
Maria Diaz the real reason they yell at u is to get u ready for all the loud shit u will hear in the feild
Went through it! Wasn't even terrified of them yelling, mainly missed my family first time ever leaving home! Such a great experience, and made great friends who I still keep in touch with! No regrets at all
they are only screaming at you to stress you out and mentally prepare you when you are in combat to act and listen when you are under alot of stress its, just dont worry
I dont know much about air force, but were you debating between active duty or air national guard? Working out before basic is VERY helpful..practice running, situps, pushups, and pullups if you can! They do ease you into the workouts (PT) at first too.
Am retired after 27 years in the Army Reserve (and three deployments). Enjoyed BCT (1980/1981) Ft. Jackson, SC. Wonderful experience. Was an older recruit, so I was not psyched out by the yelling and screaming, but savored every moment. Great video, and I agree that I would prefer a male drill sergeant.
How old were you when you enlisted???
Do people rape you there?! My crazy family tells me that they do. "Their tricking me into not going, and she says they brain wash you?!"
Hi Stephanie, I was 27 when I enlisted and I was married. So had two years of college and life experience. So I was not a typical recruit. Plus, my dad was a career soldier, so I had some idea what the army was all about. I had never run or done much physical exercise in my life, but made it through. The drill sergeants were experienced soldiers and maintained their professionalism throughout. I saw female soldiers throw themselves at the drill sergeants trying to gain favor, but never once saw any compromising conduct, although I know that these types of things have happened. Sexual abuse happens every where, but I can say as a former army Sexual Assault Councilor, there are more protections in the military than in civilian life. The ramifications on one's professional career are more severe than in the civilian life. So if you want a military career (active duty or reserve) go for it.
Thank you for your response Evelyn... :) I am leaving for BCT in March provided my tattoo removal goes according to plan :) and it seems as though it is all working out.. I am 34 so I am right at the limit, but I am fit and I work out on a regular basis... I wanted to go active army but I am a single mom and those chances are very slim to say the least... :(
c'moooon :) we both know you aren't scared of the DEEEOK!!!!!
this video helped me so much before i left for basic nearly one year ago now :) i went to jackson in the winter and let me tell you guys, IT IS REALLY REALLY COLD IN SC IN THE WINTER. like holy crap. anyway, i miss it so much and would also go back to basic if they would let me :) and also.. RESERVES HOOAH ...lol
How was running in the cold?
Great advice. Shes pretty spot on.
Hey, I just wanted to say that your video got me so excited to go to boot camp! I leave in a few months and I am so glad I looked on here for basic advice and videos! Thank you your awesome
this is exactly what I needed, you're awesome!!!!
Your positive attitude made me really excited to leave for basic I'am going to Ft. Benning soon and was pretty nervous on what to expect, this video made me feel a lot better thank you
I was surprised to see a "Cute Girl" discussing army life. The military females I have met are more of the Tom Boy type. Great description and it differs from what is on TV such as "Full Metal Jacket" or "Stripes" and my favorite was the girl in Seal Training (forgot the title).
Full metal jacket was the movie that was the most accurate about Viet Nam.
The movie was "GI Jane".
They ones you have met says a lot about the ones you have met.
I am terrified of needles too but you gotta get plenty of shots! Probably at least 4-5 in basic training. The worst for me was getting my blood drawn though, yuck! You can have midol for cramps in basic training, they sell it at the PX so you will have several opportunities to buy it there. I had time to shave my legs at basic, but other units didnt allow razors! Depends on your drill sergeants!
Im a sophmore in high school. Im thinking about enlisting the army. But any suggestions in what I should do to be prepared?
Think and do research. If you go active it is a big commitment, Same if you are reserve, I can answer questuons I am a college grad enlisted in the reserves.
This video was so helpful! I am leaving for basic training in a few weeks and I am so nervous but this video answered most of my questions as well as making me feel a lot less anxious since I know more of what to expect. Thank you so much!
Girls, don't cut your hair short! I was told by a sergeant that I had to get mine cut above the collar, but that was not true (I had hair almost down to my waist before basic training). As long as you keep it up and off your collar in a French braid, pony tail, bun, etc. then you are ok.
I have dreads but above my shoulders , if I get it braided is that acceptable ?
+chrissy jean AR670-1
+A modern day warrior. Mean, mean stride. Today's Tom Sawyer. Mean, mean pride. We had a guy in my platoon with long hair. He was forced to have a net covering his hair, until he either got it cut, or braided it in a specific way. ( Yes, the military forces women to braid their hair either one way or the other, you're not free to choose really )
+Andi L No female has to cut their hair short, but they can if they wish to.
I cut my hair off 1 month ago will they make me cut it again
HOOAH to you, Soldier! I spent 22 years in the Army National Guard with 2 deployments. It's great to see young people like yourself giving a positive perspective on the military, especially the basic training side. Hopefully other young men and women who see this will get a better understanding and know what to expect. Keep up the good work. HOOAH!!!
How about like being on your period? Do they give you birth control or how to deal with it?
+Pat Alvarez I would not be at basic training trying to take bc pills. If I was you, I would get the shot or something that lasts the length of time you are going to be gone to basic. I will tell you first hand, it sucks going thru basic with cycle, and pads. TRUST ME!!
meep meep with me having my cycle every 20 days for 6 days at a time i doubt any medicine they have will stop it. do you know if women have to share tampons and atuff at basic? or they keep their own
Share tampons? You buy your own tampons.
Having gone through basic with my cycle.. it sucked. I wish I did some kind of birth control to stop my cycle during that time, so I didn't have to fuss with all that at basic. lol But it is do-able it just was a pain in the butt.
BCT can be a vastly different experience for individuals depending on where you go and your MOS. Thank you for sharing your experience and giving your insights from the female perspective l.
I went to basic training in the Army myself about three years ago and some of the stuff this girl is talking about I have to disagree with, particularly about the diet and the physical fitness. To put it bluntly, the food is of terrible quality, hardly any nutritional value at all. I'll dare say that the food in a high school cafeteria is better for you than the garbage the Army gives you. As far as the Army's physical fitness is concerned, it is a total joke. This girl says in this video that you'll be in the best shape of your life, well I strongly disagree. I actually came out in worse shape because the training program I have for myself at home is much more challenging and more intensive. Plus, I lost muscle mass in the Army because the pt is just too watered down.
Were you in the U.S. army?
I spent 20 years in the Military and the food is excellent. No complaints. You can get as much as you want but you do have a small amount of time to consume it in training. Much of what she says is on point. Basic training is the best time you will have in the Military. The rest is just a job.
Evelyn Gardiner Yes, of course, I was in the U.S. Army. What other Army could I possibly be talking about?
Ronald Crumpton I guess I must have higher standards than you regarding diet and nutrition because, like I said, the food I eat is home grown and homemade and the pt regiment I have for myself in the civilian world is much more beneficial to me physically. In fact, numerous other male soldiers I trained with had the same gripes that I have about these things.
j ramirez sorry I’m throwing my bullshit flag. You’re just a keyboard warrior talking shit.
I was a WAC back in the 70s. I admire you for choosing to serve! When you get much older, the memories will always be with you, so save all your journals, medals, commendations and all that now! I also served in the reserves after the Army. It was a life changing experience!!!
the female drill sgts are the worst!!!!!!!!!! oh yes they are definitely mean. Mine was racist, unfortunately
gg lol
i havet left for basic yet
L. Cornell You are right. The drill sergeants are very racist. They called my sister a black ass bitch.
lol
+Mary Harris And you can't talk back?
I go to Fort Jackson on September 15th for basic training. I'm super nervous and wasn't sure what to expect but this has helped me calm slot if those nerves knowing what to expect so thank you. :)
@kuhleskind I am 22. You would have to go to AIT, but you can do the split option where you go to Basic Training during the summer, then AIT the following summer. AIT was so much fun!
This was so helpful! Even though I'm not enlisting in the Army, I really appreciated the insight. I'm probably going to do OCS for either Army or the Marines. Great video and thank you for your service to this country!
Loved your video, one of my closest friends, who is a female, is at basic right now. I couldn't really give her any tips since I went to Benning, and there are literally no females on Sand Hill.
congrats ebee on graduating. I'm similar to you but joining the air force and you've given me some confidence I'll be okay.
Really neat to hear what Basic is like for folks now. I went to Fort Knox in 1996; there were no females around and chapstick and cough drops were considered contraband. We didn't have phones or anything to worry about back then but letters were really special. We never got 8 hours of sleep though; lights out was at 2300 and we were up at 4:30am with formation at 5am for PT. We spent our evenings shining boots, pressing uniforms, writing letters, studying, practicing, doing laundry, etc. But the majority of it sounds pretty much the same. I'd love to go back to Basic if I could too.
I admire you for having such a positive outlook about your experience! Every time you said it felt like summer camp and you loved it, I kept thinking about how much I'd hate not being able to wear makeup, having to shovel my food in and not smile! I guess I'm just wimpy!
in Canada we have something called army cadets and when I was 13 I went away for 2 weeks for general training and I was scared shitless. I didn't cry but shit man, it was scary, especially being a little kid and not knowing anyone outa the 800 kids attending GT. plus to make it worse it was on a really ghetto base and there was a gang that beat GT kids
Your comment reminded me of Attack on Titan xD the characters in the anime got sent off at 13 years of age as cadets also.
That was such a great video! I love your positive attitude and it really shows. My husband is AD and has the same feelings about a lot of the women in charge as you do, have something to prove and catty, which makes them unpleasant to be/work with. We have many female friends that are in and aren't that way, but in general they don't seem make a career out of it, the ones that do must be more likely to act that way. I found your channel through Ingrid and am glad I did!
This was perfect. I have been so nervous about shipping out! That was extremely helpful and supportive, I feel like i can get through it now! Thank you!
Very informative. My moms ex husband was stationed at ft. Huachuga. I actually stayed there for a month in 1996 when I was 12. Small world.
this video was amazinggg....thanx soooo much for taking the time to share your experience... watching this video has made me more excited...
I actually like your video. It is refreshing to hear a positive attitude. It sounds like you WANTED (which is important) to be at basic training. I think you (as did I many years ago) breezed through the new experience. It seems like you will do well for as long as you wish to serve. I wish you well in your military career. 파이팅!!
Im really considering joining the military and this has really helped me think about it all
There are lots of online study guides and practice tests you can take! The more practice the better!
yes! i had my phone in reception. I did have a few prior service in my BCT as well
Omg!! You remind me just like myself! I am a huge girly girl with blonde hair and a positive mentality! This video has helped so much and I hope to meet people like you in basic!!!
Fort Jackson is HUGE !
You'll love it!
My boyfriend said it was an AMAZING experience. :)
this was really interesting for me even though i dont live in the us and probably will never enlist in the military. that being said, i really admire you for your courage and strength in supporting your country, you're very inspirational :)
I packed a bag before leaving for basic and my parents brought it to my basic graduation! otherwise you can have items shipped to you at AIT!
Yes, the risk with joining the military is that you could be deployed, but if you arent sure where you are going in life, joining the military provides great experiences and education! Just make sure to choose an MOS you actually enjoy!
you are definitely right about some females cannot cope at first or not at all. One of my recruiters told me about one who THE very first night hid in a bush! needless to say she got sent home right away and denied enlistment in future for any branch. I am not yet in the military however the best thing to do is what you said is learn to cope,do as your told, and just do what you can and know you can do it. It is only temporary but you need to know what to expect when you get out. The majority of my family is military so it kinda helps to know what to expect. It is not for everyone but it does not mean you can't try. thank you for this vid it helps a lot :) .
I'm shipping out to Fort Jackson in April. As a female with the same perspective, this video really helped me visualize and prepare myself for BCT. Thanks for being professional, informative, and candid about your approach. I will admit, I initially saw a pretty girl and thought it would be a generic, sophomoric view, but I appreciate your ability to be fluent and efficient.
This video helped me alot with this... I watched some videos that kinda scared me. I just graduated high school last may and everyones been pressuring me to go to college. I have good grades for it but I just hate sitting in a classroom; I rather be active. So im planning on signing up for the national guard sometime this fall :)
This is the most helpful video ever!
This video really helped me, I'm considering joining the Guard. I hope my experience is like yours.
@lalalovealittle :-) What company were you in at Ft Jackson??!! I was in B Co 2-13!
I am going into the army basic training on january 8th I am going into millitary intelligence... I am so glad that you posted this video.. at this moment i am nervious and excited.. this video actualy helped calm my nerves.. =)
This video helped me SO much.
I leave for Basic in August in Fort Jackson.
I am very excited but anxious/nervous.
I started tearing up watching this. It made me realize that I can join and that I can do it. I told my family and we're going to a recruiters office this week. I'm scared out of my mind but its something I wanna do and you made me realize that I can. Thank you so much for doing this video.
thank you for this video ..i plan on leaving this summer for the army and this video was right on time
Thank you soooooo much I feel so much better...my husband is army for over 25 years but its a total different feeling now that our daughter wants to join
I dont think your tattoos can extend past a certain point on your arms (maybe your wrists) - talk to a recruiter, they can look at your tattoos and know for sure!
Thanks so much for this video! It was really reassuring for me! My husband is active duty and we are stationed in Ft. Lewis Washington right now and I am thinking I am going to join the Army and go active as well. The only thing I am scared about is basic but this did help a lot! I am such a baby especially when someone criticizes me, like I have a feeling I will just cry if they say anything mean to me lol. But you really helped me realize that I CAN do it, and I should!
I brought my cell phone to basic! They lock it up while you are there, and you can use it for phone calls home when allowed. My parents brought a bag of my civilian clothes to my BCT graduation and I brought it to AIT with me.
If you have drill prior to shipping to basic training for the Army reserves, typically it will just be an introduction to your unit, maybe participating in some activities and talking with the other soldiers in your unit. Nothing scary!
I agree with ebee. BCT/AIT or OSUT compaired to actual Army life is somewhat different besides the pt every morning. Most I can say is that you will be mentally and physically pushed to your limits. It will be hard at times like she says but the DSs' will not allow you to quit on yourself. Something made you want to join the Army or the military in general so use that to your advantage. Stay strong and I wish you luck with your choice.
I still had highlights, but you have to keep your hair VERY natural, otherwise if you have outgrowth the drill sergeants really give you a hard time
You put a lot of things into perspective for me. I'm going to see a recruiter tomorrow and I'm really nervous but you definitely eased a lot of those nerves. Thanks:-)
I went to BCT/AIT in 2000 at Ft. LeonardWood, Missouri. We were not permitted to keep our weapons. They had to be returned to the armory after each exercise. Also, some basic trainees will stay at the same location after BCT and continue on with AIT with no break at all. It depends on your MOS. MPs do all of their BCT and AIT together broken up into 5 phases, not just 3, and then won't graduate anything until after their AIT in phases 4 & 5. Make sure you look into that for another video. KUDOS!
It will hit you like the day before! You should be more excited than nervous though! It will be great!
I remember being in the Marine Corps boot camp. It was worth it.
Nothing can prepare you to get into any branch of military.
The best thing to remember, I switched branches to the Army recently, so I don't have to do their boot camp, however, remember always listen, and take action first.
hmm...every state offers different waivers, so I couldnt give you an exact answer. I am not sure which state you live in, but my advice would be to talk to a recruiter and see if you would be able to join!
Again, thank you SO much for your videos! I'm studying up and getting in shape -- hopefully I'll be in DEPs by next year. :) I smile too much too and I'm always worried that I'm not tough enough since I have to try hard not to take things personally. Thanks again! ~CJ
As a male and even as an Infantryman having gone through basic training with all males at Ft. Benning GA, yes it sucked but yes I can completely relate! We're all really on the same page when going from reception all the way to graduation. The homesickness, the desperation of urging to quit, enjoying the few minutes long phone calls and appreciating it all the smallest things and luxuries afterwards and not taking anything for granted anymore, it really is not much different than males for the exception of physical demand. Our mental breakdown of going through basic is all the same!
i'm so glad you're back on youtube emilie! this video was very interesting
Thank you very much for this video !! I am joining the military, but quite worried about basic .. but you gave me hope !!
i went. i was scared to go but in my opinion it was defiantly worth it. its not gonna be easy either. and for the most part everything you do and all the pain you feel is all in your head. if you can overcome being scared and keep telling yourself that you can get thru this, then youll have no problem at getting thru basic at all. so sum it all up to answer your question, if you wonna be physically fit and mentally ready to take on anything in the world with confidence, then yes you should go
Emily, love your Basic Training accounts and hope to see many more videos from you. How about modelling some of your Army uniforms for your faithful viewers! xo Bob
I am going in too! My husband was in the Army but can go back in due to hearing and knee problems he got while deployed so now I'm going and couldn't be more excited! The only thing I am dreading is leaving my hubby and my two babies :( It's for my family though and I am happy to help make a good life for them!
I understand, im somewhat in shape but im like skinny like toothpicks in the arms.. I cant do a pushup either.. like 1 pushup is my max. So ill be working on it before I sign up this fall
I'm currently 16 years old. I've always had a thought sitting in the back of my mind about enlisting in a few years. Not only do I wanna serve and protect my country, I think doing it will help me mentally. You said in the video that you came out finding out things about yourself you didn't know before. I'm generally an unsocial person and very to myself. I think enlisting will help me find myself and will help me on so many different levels. Now I'm just debating if I can handle it or not. I originally plan on becoming a nurse but I definitely feel more positive about becoming apart of the US Army. Maybe.
thank you so much for making this video. It really helped to calm my nerves a little bit about being a girl at BT.
glad that you had a good experience at basic training, I did also but I went back in 1986 and the guys and girls were not together
I think u are mistaken on the 4 months without a shower statement. I'm infantry & currently deployed (Afghanistan) right now. My combat role takes me 2 "almost" all of the Army COB's/FOB's/bases in Afghanistan & even some USMC ones 2 & if I don't then my fellow NCO's cover the rest. We r responsible 4 all of Afghanistan. I've yet to c only a handful that don't have access 2 showers or water. Even if u meant 4 weeks that would be a stretch. Don't worry, he has access to showers.
SSG B - 11Bravo
I went to Ft Leonard Wood, Missouri it was brutal training, but I finally got through it. Talk about no sleeping. That's a understatement lol...
I was only 19 yrs old and I weighed only 100 lbs back then, but when we would go to the M-60 range and shoot M-60's I would do ok in the prone and kneeling position, but the standing position was difficult. I recall the D.I. standing behind me as I was struggling to hold up the weapon in my hands while in standing position. I fired the weapon and I fell backwards on my butt. The D.I. was laughing at me.... lol. He thought that was funny... hahaha!
Thank you for this! I needed it! :) You're awesome and a great role model, keep it up!!
Have you ever had your period and cramping badly during basic training or at any other time? How do they handle that?
what are you nervous about? anything in particular?
@seriouslytaryn11 I did go to college before joining, so I was a little older than many of the people I was in basic training with. I went during the winter though, so it was a little older of a group than if it was over the summer.
From my experience, my basic training was very different. No contract, instructors were never yelling or being mean and were always helpful. We never did anything that felt unimportant like practicing drill for hours on end, instead focusing on combat training. The only times where you were under alot of stress was during field exercises, lasting 5-9 days in the forrest, in the middle of nowhere. Those where the only times we really longed for home. Currently serving, Royal Swedish Armed Forces
glad to see you have the right mindset on basic especially for a female! i dont know alot of females that thought of basic the way you spoke about it! although my basic is going to be REAAAAL different from yours! HAHA! (going to Fort Benning for OSUT, MOS- Infantry) but good to hear you got through it! hope your experience in the army is going well!
You must've been a hell of a visual morale booster for you're teamates...cool video. Cheers
This video is so awesome :) Thank you for sharing it. Before I registered for college, I really really wanted to join the army. But someone had told me that all the things that they guarantee you (i.e. income, # of years to serve, etc) are not promised. So I didn't join. I didn't even join ROTC b/c I felt that would interfere with my studies. Damn. I really want to do this.
thank you so much this video helped me alot im in going into the army and ive been kind of nervous about basic training but this video helped me not be so nervous
Yes! There were times when females were allowed to run to the bathroom if they got their period during training. All females were required to carry a pad with them at all times, just in case. I had my doctor write a script for birth control where I skipped periods, so I didnt have to deal with the hassle while I was at basic training!
On Sundays, you are allowed to go to church in the morning, then the rest of the day you are cleaning the barracks and cleaning your weapons.
Thanks for sharing your experiences in basic training . I took my training at Fort Benning , Ga. in 1969 . I'm sure there were some differences from then but overall basic training is still basic training . I guess the main thing is the drill sergeants still yell at you and that will never change haha . One thing for sure is at the end of your training , man or woman you come out of it as an adult . Again thanks for sharing .
So, just for clarification -you CAN receive care packages at Fort. Jackson during BCT? I had heard from some people that you couldn't and some said you could, but none of them had gone to Fort Jackson specifically.
While sleeping in your barrack, was there any issues with sleeping if people snoring loudly?? I usually sleep with a fan on to drown out any noise at all. Was wondering if there were any issues of that matter.
You remember the unit you were in at Fort Jackson. I did basic training there too.
Your video was awesome 🙆. I served from 1986 -1990. I wished the internet was around back then. Do you have a video about your AIT experience?
I can speak only of myself and the ones I know, so that's reality to me judging from my own life experiences, not from books or action movies. I respect your point of view and hope you do the same.