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 talk to many older people who know I'm in the Army who then say "I wish I joined" or "I was going to join but never". This is conversation as they are sat in the pub on a Sunday afternoon which is about as far from home as they ever go and as exciting as their life ever gets. While you can and are able to give it a go and if it works out fantastic, if not you know you gave it a try and move onto something else. No one will ever say anything negative to you for giving it your best and having the drive to better yourself and join the Army. I've seen parents of soldiers crying bursting with pride watching their son or daughter at the pass off parade all soldiers take part in at the end of their initial training. Some of these parents were against them joining only a few months prior.

Job knowledge, research and physical preparation are key to achieving a basic training place.