Wow; definitely easier to ask the question that to answer. Here's the reader's digest version. "And I NEVER write short posts" LOL!!!!
This year, BCT was from 25 June to 5 August. It lasts a little shy of 6 weeks. Actually; 5 weeks and 1 day for "Normal" part of BCT, and then another 4 days of processing when you're done with the BCT and are moving into your "Real" rooms, getting books for school, etc...
Anyway; BCT is broken up into 2 parts. The first half is military life, uniforms, marching, PT, learning how to take direction, etc... Then, at the half way mark, you get a day off where you spend it with your sponsor family. (No, you aren't "Free" to see your parents or anything). Then the 2nd half of BCT is called Jack's Valley. Live in tents, confidence course, obstacle course, REAL TEAM BUILDING, etc...
Basically; they are taking 1350-1400 individuals from 50 states and a number of overseas locations; all with different opinions; all with different cultures; and they break them down. Then, they take the mush and teach them all to WORK TOGETHER as a team. They present certain tasks that are basically impossible to complete individually. They teach you how to give respect to those superior to you in experience and position. They teach you how to think and put the "Team" ahead of yourself and the individual. There's a lot discipline. A lot of yelling. A lot of "Don't think for yourself".
It HAS TO BE THIS WAY. It is NOT a democracy. There will come a time when you think for yourself; a time where your individual talents come into play; but BCT is NOT THAT TIME. They have to break EVERYONE down to the same "Common Denominator". Then, they can rebuild where you can look beyond yourself. It is emotionally and physically demanding. It is definitely not for everyone. And it's nothing like anything else you've experienced. (Unless you're prior enlisted and went through enlist BT). Hope this helps. It is a basic explanation. Later... Mike...