Shipping day is coming up and many of you are wondering what to expect when you get to basic training. However, you can prepare yourself with these questions and answers that future soldiers ask before considering joining or what to expect before coming to basic training.

1. What can I do to prepare myself mentally, physically, and emotionally as a soldier?

Mentallyyou have to have the mindset that you came here to do this for yourself.

emotionallyyou have to be tough.

Physicallygo in here knowing that you have to give it 100% every day doing push ups, sit ups and running.

2. What do you recommend I take to the basic?

Bring necessities like toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and they will probably tell you not to bring your cell phone but I would recommend bringing it anyway. You never know when she might get a chance to use it; otherwise, they’re just common sense items you’ll probably need with you as you travel to basic training.

3. What is the inside of the gas chamber like?

You will first go in with the mask on and make sure it works properly before you go in there. After a while, you will be told to remove it and you will be exposed to CS gas and cough a little, get a runny nose and tear up in your eyes.

The drill sergeants will make you do some things in the gas chamber, but make sure you keep your composition there. After they let you out you will want to walk around for about 5 minutes and the smell will linger once you get out of there. It’s a lot of fun but it’s not when you spend it in basic training. However, you will be finished and it is a one-time required course.

4. What is your biggest fear about basic training?

My biggest fear was not trying to injure myself. If you are injured during basic training and go to the hospital, they will put you in a profile where you will not train for several days, weeks or two of non-training.

During those weeks, if you miss a mandatory workout, you will have to do it again at a later time or be recycled. Just try to take care of yourself and do your best not to get injured in basic training.

5. What is the hardest part about joining the military?

The hardest part of the basics is adjusting in general. They’re going to tell you what to do and you’re just going to do it. Mentally, physically and emotionally, it doesn’t matter. You can be the most out of shape person and you will be in shape when you get there.

You may not be mentally interested in it, but your drill sergeants will motivate you in your battles. If you are the person who does not want to work hard, you may not adapt as easily. Just try to get things done and stay on schedule.