I loved everything about the experience. This is a goal of mine that I have been trying to accomplish for many years now, and now that I am officially a United States Marine is a surreal experience.
What I wish was different
I wish that I didn't have to go through Bootcamp during a pandemic because I feel as though that took away from getting the full experience while I was down there. However, I also saw the pandemic as kind of a blessing in this situation because it taught us the Marine Corps mantra of "improvise, adapt, and overcome" in a much more timely manner. It was a unique experience, but one that will be very beneficial as I progress further into my career with the Marines.
Advice
Life is going to knock you down 100 times. It's up to you whether or not you want to get back up 101 times. Nothing is impossible. If you can dream it you can do it.
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USMC Officer Candidate
June - August 2020 • Quantico, VA
What I liked
The overall atmosphere provided a motivating and beneficial learning experience. The Instructors and staff were especially helpful when dealing with difficult tasks
What I wish was different
Other than the necessary COVID-19 restrictions, not much
Advice
Work extensively on your physical fitness
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Fixed-Wing Aircraft Flight Engineer
July 2012 • Newburgh, NY
What I liked
Traveling o-conus
What I wish was different
Advice
Work hard, study, & have a passion and you’ll be ok.
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Heavy Equipment Engineer
July 2016 • Omaha, NE
What I liked
Opportunity to serve the nation.
What I wish was different
Ability to travel more.
Advice
It's hard work but only a few can do it.
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Officer Candidate USMC
May 2019 • Quantico, VA
What I liked
I loved that I was taught how to be a leader. Leadership is a very hard skill to learn and honestly that place will turn you into a savage.
What I wish was different
Nothing. The Marine Corps does two things, Wins wars and makes Marines. I think the process is fine.
Advice
Do it. If you get the chance to serve your country and attempt to become a Marine, you do it.
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Officer Candidate
July - August 2019 • Quantico, VA
What I liked
I liked the challenge. Every day offered a chance to prove your leadership abilities.
What I wish was different
I wish that the weather had been more cooperative. Being outside all day in 90 degree weather with 100% humidity was not comfortable.
Advice
Be confident in your leadership skills. Preparing physically and mentally will aid in your confidence.
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USMC Training
May - August 2019 • Jacksonville, NC
What I liked
Hands on training, working outside
What I wish was different
Less heat
Advice
Don't do it unless you know what you're getting into
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Infantry Assaultman
November 2015 • Twentynine Palms, CA
What I liked
Challenge, Teamwork, purpose, fulfillment
What I wish was different
Some coworkers and managment
Advice
Never give up, no matter the situation, push through and strive to be the best you can be
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Intelligence Analyst
June 2006 • Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, NC
What I liked
Comraderie
What I wish was different
Nothing
Advice
Worth while
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Aircraft Mechanic
July 2017 • Newburgh, NY
What I liked
Mentorship, challenge, collaboration
What I wish was different
I wish it were a little less intense and was more tolerant.
Advice
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Athletic Coach Intern
March - July 2013 • Jacksonville, NC
What I liked
Working with kids
What I wish was different
Be more assertive.
Advice
Maximize your efforts. Give it your all.
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Staff Sergeant
September 2010 • Marine Corps Base, CA
What I liked
Worked with quality people, diverse work, and constantly challenged
What I wish was different
More travel opportunities.
Advice
Be aware of what you're signing up for
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Supply Chain Manager
October 2014 - July 2019 • Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, CA
What I liked
Opportunity to save money and close friendships. Also leadership skills acquired.
What I wish was different
Less restrictions.
Advice
Stay in the field of you love it. Don't do it for financial reasons if you are single. If you have people to take care of then it might be best to tough it out a little bit longer.
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US Marine
July - August 2018 • Norfolk, VA
What I liked
The brotherhood the comraderie. Protecting my fellow Americans.
Being a pilot.
What I wish was different
The weather haha
Advice
For anyone thinking about joining the Marine Corps, do it because you don’t want to regret not giving back to America.
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USMC Officer Candidate
July - August 2018 • Quantico, VA
What I liked
The encouraged development of myself and 61 of the other men in my platoon into not only leaders but better men overall.
What I wish was different
I wish I had prepared more for it beforehand.
Advice
I highly recommend it to anyone who seeks a challenge or would like to push themselves and is searching for experience
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Lance Corporal
May - August 2018 • Jacksonville, NC
What I liked
Having a big effect on women and men that will be serving overseas.
What I wish was different
I wish I would have been able to touch and inspire more Marines; however, there was only so many that I could talk to and educate.
Advice
I would say make the most of this opportunity because, as a leader, you have more of an impact on others than you may notice.
