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.

When going through selection for the Army, it can be very tempting to try and be the person you think they are looking for. That might work in the short term, but in the longer term, or when you are under pressure / tired / in command, that doesn't work. It is far better to be the person you really are, with your own quirks and personality, and to utilise your own skills and abilities. The Army can teach you how to lead and think tactically, it can develop your fitness and your endurance, it can't change how you start out as a person.

When I decided to join the Army. I was a fully qualified Fabricator / Welder. I decided to join the Royal Engineers as this trade. Because I was already qualified, I was able to fast track a large majority of my trade training. With this I was not only able to get to my first unit quicker but I also got a financial bonus. In my career I have held two fabricator / welder related posts, so have had the opportunity to remain current and competent in my trade.