More OTS Prep Advice – November 2017

Here is some more advice someone generously shared on Facebook.  This sounds like a Det 12 experience to me, but I could be wrong.

Approaching the end of my time here at OTS, here’s some little nuggets for ya:

1. The first few weeks are the worst.  Positions to include flight leader, wing cadet commander, etc. are all considered Individual Leadership Opportunities (ILO) and ungraded meaning they are a first attempt and are meant for everyone to become familiar with expectations and how you will be graded.  Consider these a trial run and take them seriously.
2. For the prior-service, this is not basic training.  If you come here hoping to blend in, you will have a rough time here.  Everyone should do what they can to take leadership opportunities but also remember, you don’t need 250+ cadets trying to make a decision.  Be a leader and learn to know when to simply be a follower.  Non-priors, same to you but also don’t come here thinking you have something to prove to the priors.
3. Non-priors, I give y’all props coming here.  I don’t think I could have made it through OTS without having previous knowledge and experience as an NCO.  With that said, your greatest lesson here will be to rely on your prior service to teach you and help you.  The curriculum just won’t do it.  You’ll learn as a 2d Lt to find a sharp NCO or Senior NCO and stick to them to learn.  Do the same here.
4. Feedback is crucial here.  Expect direct and honest feedback and learn how to take criticism.  This is vital to your development here as well as while serving.
5. If you can, pull up the AFH 33-337 Tongue and Quill and look over writing talking papers and bullet background papers.  Writing in these styles is very different and we had A LOT of people struggle with these including myself.  There’s also the AU guide which is used for sourcing.  Done very similar to Chicago style.
6. Remember this is only two months.  I hit my breaking point at week 4 and have paid for it dearly.  Stay positive and look to your peers to help you through your situations while at OTS.  No one can get through OTS by themselves.  If you try, you will fail.  Learn to be a team and you can get through any of it.