Mental Preparation

[sellina_753]

What are some ways to mentally prepare yourself for the ‘breaking down’ and ‘building back up’ part of BCT? Correct me if I’m wrong but BCT’s purpose is to break people down as civilians and individuals and build them back up as a soldier.

As a Mormon, I grew up around a lot of friendly people and not a lot of yelling or screaming. Are there any mental strategies or tips to prepare yourself for BCT?

 

[Falcon A]

Sellina — there are many people of faith in the military. You will find many cadets are people of faith ... Even upperclass cadre members! You have already been given the foundation you need with your faith. I always found Psalm 121 helpful, especially there in that setting:

Psalm 121 King James Version (KJV)
121 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.

2 My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.

3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.

4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand.

6 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.

7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul.

8 The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

 

[Christcorp]

Correct me if I’m wrong but BCT’s purpose is to break people down as civilians and individuals and build them back up as a soldier.

Sure, I’ll correct you.

A “civilian or soldier” is a mindset. It’s something that is developed. Just like your personality and behavior. You’re not built into a soldier or sailor or airman or marine, etc. after basic training. That mindset of saying “I am an airman” is developed over time. One day, you just realize that you’re an airman.

What you should know is..... BCT’s purpose is to break down your individuality and build you and the others back up as a TEAM. The purpose of the military is to defend the constitution of the United States, and in turn defend the citizens of the United States. And as such, fight and win any military confrontation as needed. And NO Battle, War, etc. at this level can be won by an INDIVIDUAL. Only AS A TEAM.

 

[MidCakePa]

Sellina, you’ve now posted similar questions at least a couple times on this forum, so you’re genuinely concerned. You’ve received really good perspective, particularly from Christcorp, who I believe has “been there, done that.” Above all, check your motivations for attending USAFA.

If you’re genuinely interested in serving your country as an officer, you’re going to need to “buck up.” Your faith and upbringing should frankly not be an impediment. There are many LDS cadets/mids out there who are thriving. They understand that the “not nice” aspects of military life have a very critical purpose. Seek out LDS cadets/mids from your area and meet with them when they’re on leave. I have no doubt they’d be willing to talk with you.

Depending on what grade you’re in, you have a couple opportunities to test-drive USAFA. Check out Summer Seminar and Candidate Visit Weekends. They’ll give you some idea — a bit watered down, mind you — of what to expect. Best wishes.