Hey 2015,
A few words of wisdom(?) from a guy who had a hell of a time in basic last year transitioning away from home:
First of all, the line "once the academic year hits, there will be 3 times us all giving you a hard time" is 99% false. The sophomores last year in my squad were so awesome and instrumental in helping the four degrees out. Our inboxes and doors (for the main part) are ALWAYS open as we were in your shoes just a few months ago.
Second, as much as you may lose sight of it, it (all the crap you go through before being recognized) IS worth it. Recognition is the best feeling and most rewarding experience EVER.
Finally, BCT may feel like the toughest, slowest time of your life (I know it did for me). Just know that it passes and that you'll be so much closer with everyone who went though it with you. The cliched "the friends you gain" statements are all 110% true. Write letters, family/friends/girlfriends/boyfriends WRITE TO THEM, it is what got me (and I'm sure some of my classmates) through such a trying time especially for a straight out of high school kid who was missing out on warm days at the beach with his friends.
It will be tough, for some of you like me, it will be the worst experience of your life...at the time. Afterwards, feel the accomplishment and feel extremely proud of yourself. 99% of the cadets here are here for you, whether it seems like it or not...the other 1%, well, that's life.
Can't wait to meet you all, best of luck, if you ever need anything shoot me a PM on this site, or email me. My name's Derek Sandblom and I'm in the class of 2014, you should be able to figure out my email address