It's always better to be at the bottom of a ladder you wan't to climb, than half way up one you don't. Okay... I promise I won't do anymore cheesy quotes from now on, but it really is true. I've always thought of this, as you can see from the various jobs I've had, I've always been looking for that one job that ticks every box for things you want out of a career. Don't be persuaded into doing a job you're not set on, just because it may result you getting your start date early. Or if you need a qualification for a particular job. Get that qualification! If it means you getting that career/job role that you really want, then go for it. Don't settle for second best.

One of the biggest pieces of advice I can give somebody who has an interest in joining the military is to simply be yourself. One of key values of the military is integrity, so as long as you're honest with yourself and being true to who you are, you can't go too wrong. Those who try to be somebody they're not always get found out, and false appearances can only be kept up for so long. I would also say work hard. If you continue to push yourself and push what you think are your limitations, you'll find yourself pleasantly surprised. Those who work hard in the military are very often rewarded and go on to have the more fulfilling, exciting career with an abundance of opportunities. Those who shy away from work or are lazy will again get found out very quickly and have less opportunities available.

I have served 16 years in the Army now. I have lots of experience gained though courses, exercises, operations and life. But, there is always something new. Something I've never done before. A new system, weapon, theory or problem. You can always learn something new, or improve something old. Don't be afraid to ask for help and always seek feed back. But remember feedback will not always be positive.