I've been accepted to USUHS to enter in the fall of 2006. I was wondering a few things about OIS and it seems most of the postings about it are fairly old so I was hoping I could get some advice from those people who have recently gone through it.
1) When did you report to OIS?
2) What was a typical day at OIS like? I've heard some compare it to summer camp and some to boot camp and since those are fairly far apart on the spectrum I was wondering what to expect. I know it's going to be challenging but I want to mentally prepare myself for how challenging.

Thanks

I've been accepted to USUHS to enter in the fall of 2006. I was wondering a few things about OIS and it seems most of the postings about it are fairly old so I was hoping I could get some advice from those people who have recently gone through it.
1) When did you report to OIS?
2) What was a typical day at OIS like? I've heard some compare it to summer camp and some to boot camp and since those are fairly far apart on the spectrum I was wondering what to expect. I know it's going to be challenging but I want to mentally prepare myself for how challenging.

Thanks
I went through it about 8 years ago, so my info's old too. But it's not challenging in the slightest. I think it's a couple weeks shorter now.

The Navy finally unscrewed my paperwork in June, and then faxed my orders to a recruiting office in the wrong state. Eventually I got them and discovered I had to be in Newport three days later. I literally got off the plane, took a cab to the gate, and walked in about 30 minutes before the no-later-than time on my orders.

The most mentally challenging thing I did the entire time I was there was in those first few minutes, when I managed to restrain myself and not use my suitcase to crush the skull of some worthless piece of **** ensign who screamed at me to take off my sunglasses.

At some point, very early on, they might play some games with a Marine NCO or SNCO yelling at you, but the only reason this works is because none of the O-1 and O-3 med students and dentists know that Staff Sergeants don't yell at officers. This isn't OCS; you're not an "officer candidate" ... you're already a commissioned officer. Your future is not in question. You're there to check a box. Don't let any of the stupid games they may or may not play with you rattle you.

If you're in poor physical condition, the PT could be a challenge. But if you can pass the Navy test (run 1.5 miles in under ~12-13 minutes + ~45 push ups + ~60 sit ups - it depends on your age) you will have no problem. The PT is tailored to the lowest common denominator, and with a few hundred medical & dental corps people, that's pretty low.

There's a ton of marching, which you will grow to hate, but if you've ever seen a group of dentists and medical students march ... well, it can be fun to watch. My company got a bad command during graduation and actually did a right oblique into the bleachers. They still let me go to medical school though.

Endless classes, some were useful (history/traditions, legal, admin) and some were just absurd (eg, "leadership" classes centered around reading "7 Habits of Highly Successful People"). None were difficult. If you can put up with organic chemistry and do well enough to get into medical school, you could get through OIS drunk, high, or both.

The instructor for my group was a nurse corps lieutenant. I thought it was a bit weird that a bunch of soon-to-be doctors were getting indoctrinated by a nurse. But maybe they were just preparing us for the day when nurse corps captains would be telling us what to do.

In short - there is a lot of useful stuff you'll learn, and there's some stupid and annoying garbage to put up with. But none of it is difficult, challenging, or stressful.

What ppg said is basically still true. I went through OIS last summer. Supposedly OIS was made a bit more intense a few years back after partying in Newport got out of hand, but it is nowhere near what happens in OCS or the academies.

You arrive in Providence airport the day before it starts and take a $25 shuttle to the base in Newport. The ensign who picks you up at the gate is another medical student from the OIS class who started two weeks before you did, so if he is a tool, it probably wasn't the Navy who made him one.

Chiefs and Senior Chiefs run the divisions (about 40 people you share a hall with), and they tend to scream a lot and yell goofy insults with straight faces, but they mellowed out after about a week and actually were pretty cool guys.

The admin officers were nurse corps and line. They were good people mostly. I guess the medical officers have better things to do than run a summer camp.

You wake up at 430, work out at 5 for an hour (PT is running and calisthetics), go to breakfast, go to class all day, have dinner around 5 or 6, and generally have the evenings off (except you can't leave the dorm area). Lights out at 10. You have to shine your shoes, do easy homework, and iron your uniform in the evenings.

The marching is really funny. Everywhere you go, you have to march in formation, and med students don't really go along with that. Under no circumstances volunteer to be the drill leader.

You're there for 5 weeks, and the last two weekends you get some privledges to go to the officers club and to Newport, which is a decent town to go out in. You get a lot of attention in your whites.

There is some fun military style training: damage control and rescue on a ship simulator, firefighting, lifeboat/water survival, etc. I hear they're adding small arms training this year.

One annoying thing: they made everyone give up their OTC and prescription meds in the beginning, and any med you needed they would prescribe for you (and give to you for free). Boot camps in generally have had a problem with recruits taking stimulants to stay awake and then ODing. This makes sense, but it still seemed sort of a violation of our privacy. Which I guess we don't have anymore, since we joined the military. At the end, they gave everyone's stuff back.

You take a urine drug test the first week. There is internet available, but you can only use a navy email they give to you. The computers won't go to yahoo or gmail or anything like that, but some university web mail sites worked. They don't allow you to use the phone, but most people just brought cell phones and used them in their rooms. Nobody got caught. You have a locked locker which they don't look in. Just don't leave it unlocked, because then they go through all your stuff, throw your clothes out in the hall, and flip out about any contraband. My roomie had some cookies in the locker (no food allowed in the dorm), and our senior chief totally flipped out and crumbled them up all over our hall and then made him pick it up while the rest of us did pushups. I was having trouble not cracking up.

Anyway, you get the idea. It sort of is a cross between summer camp and boot camp. So good luck. It kind of sucks sometimes but was sort of fun in retrospect. Plus you'll get to meet some really cool people that you'll eventually be working with. I wouldn't want to do it again, but it's only five weeks, and at least you learn how to put on your uniform.

if you don't mind, i think i'll sticky this and edit the title with something about OIS/OBC information-- i *thought* we had a thread concerning officer schools, but i sure don;t see one now.

--your friendly neighborhood stickin' threads caveman

Hi everyone,

I'm a first year med student who attended COT last summer. I browse these forums occasionally and figured I would add some random tips/info from my COT experience after not seeing any on here. I know this is some stuff that I would have liked to have known before I went.

In no particular order...

-Try to purchase your uniforms before you get there & have them altered and pressed before you arrive. The first couple of days are extremely long and tiring just trying to wait in line to get your uniform, hoping that they still have your size. I envied those who already had everything. Also, start shining your boots.

-Print off and know the OI's (operating instructions) before you arrive (They should be on the COT website.) When I arrived there they starting yelling as we got off the bus. I expected that, but some people were surprised. They will yell at you to tuck in your shirt (ladies, think carefully about wearing skimpy tops). Don't wear sandals. They will want $5 and your travel orders in hand. Then they will give you a copy of your OI's and tell you to learn them. You will need to know how to report in that night, which can be humiliating if you can't think of the correct reporting statement.

-Try to do your IAAP training before you arrive.

-Get there asap on the day of arrival. I arrived later in the afternoon, along with a ton of other people so we were up really late that night waiting to get checked in. My roomie had already unpacked all her stuff and was ready for bed by the time I made it up to my room.

-The dorm rooms are very nice! They were much nicer than my college dorm room. You have your own captain's bed, night stand, chest of drawers (one drawer locks, bring a combination lock), desk, sink, and a large walk in closet. You only have to share the toilet and shower with your roomie.

-Most rooms have a computer with restricted internet access. Most people could not check private e-mail, but it is a 10 minute walk to the library for full internet access.

-Bring at least one dressy outfit to go out to dinner. My flight and I went out a few times.

-But do not pack too much because you will be returning with A LOT more luggage (especially if you don't buy your uniforms ahead of time)

-Practice running the 1.5 mile. I am not much of an athlete, but I ran 3 miles/walked 1 mile almost every day for about a month and a half before COT. I did really well in the run compared to other members of my flight (with the exception of a few really good athletes).

-You won't get much sleep. You have to get up at 4:30 am every morning for PT. What time you go to bed varies. My roomie and I often didn't get to bed until 12:30am. A rare number of people managed to get to bed by 10.

-Get started on your samples of behavior (lesson objectives) as soon as lectures start. It'll make it easier when the exam comes instead of trying to do them all the night before.

-HAVE A GOOD ATTITUDE! You'll enjoy it more.

-The first few days may be high stress. You'll adjust after the 2nd week.

- The July course that I took was shortened and had the most people of all the sessions. I think that you normally have your weekends off, but we didn't because our session was shortened. I had 317 people in my class. It was composed of highly intelligent MDs, DOs, medical & dental students, dentists, JAGs, chaplains, nurses, and others.

-Try to bring all $10 bills and smaller. You need smaller bills for the cafeteria. The food wasn't too bad tasting but not the healthiest. It is supercheap. You can talk and eat freely, although in the beginning they may try to limit your time to eat. The OTS and ROTC cadets had to sometimes eat with us. I felt bad for them having to eat at attention while we were pretty loud.

-You will be able to use your cell phone in the dorm and in break rooms during the day. They also have phones in the dorm that you can use a calling card with.

-Last year was the first year that they allowed you to store non-perishable food in your dorm room.

-We only had one room inspection, and that was when we were checking out.

-There is a ton of marching to do, but it's not that bad. Just get it down right away because if you keep on making mistakes you will get targeted.

-The days can be long, with classes taking the majority of the day. PT was usually at 5:15am. Then classes started at either 7 or 8 am and sometimes went until 6pm. Then you ate dinner and spent the rest of the evening studying, shining your boots, ironing, etc. One of the hardest struggles was to stay awake in class. My flight members and I had to watch out for each other to make sure we didn't fall asleep and get targeted.

-If you are a major or above, or a captain who was commissioned a while ago, prepare to be a leader right away.

- We had a ton of fun at the formal event at the end of our training (I'm having a brain fart right now on what they called it....something like a military ball). However, some people exceeded their alcohol limits and embarrassed themselves by having to be carried, puking, to their dorm rooms.

-Overall COT was a really good experience and I was sad to say goodbye to some people.

Feel free to PM me or post other questions on here.

:)

Any suggestions on where I can get uniforms? I don't even know what kind of uniforms I am required to wear...

Also, what is IAAP training?

I'm going to start my COT this June. I'm actually looking forward to it ;)

Any suggestions on where I can get uniforms? I don't even know what kind of uniforms I am required to wear...

Also, what is IAAP training?

I'm going to start my COT this June. I'm actually looking forward to it ;)

Go to a nearby AF base. Proceed to Military Clothing. Let one of the clerks know that you're newly commissioned and that you need to be directed about which uniform components to buy. Of course, you will need to obtain your military ID before you'll be allowed to buy uniforms. Use your commissioning paperwork at the MPF (military personnel flight) to get your ID.

Any suggestions on where I can get uniforms? I don't even know what kind of uniforms I am required to wear...

Also, what is IAAP training?

I'm going to start my COT this June. I'm actually looking forward to it ;)

Some people went with their recruiter to a base. If you are not near a base, it may be hard to get your uniforms. If you haven't already, check out the COT information on the Maxwell AFB website. They should have a list of uniform requirements there. (google COT and Maxwell AFB) If you cannot get your uniforms, do not stress. Many people did not....you will just have to be hot, tired, and cranky waiting in line :meanie:

Also on the COT website is a link to the IAAP training. It is just a computer based training on information security and the computer. It only takes about 30 minutes, but it was a pain when I had to do it at COT because we had to go to the library since you have to print out a certificate. It just makes it much easier when you get this stuff done beforehand so you have more time for other stuff.

One other thing I thought of... The list of suggestions on the COT website says to bring a briefcase. You won't need anything like that for the first few days that you are there. I ran into an issue with my standardization officer (one of the positions that you can have in the flight). She wanted all of us to have black shoulder bags. I had already purchased a blue shoulder bag, so I had to get a black one as well. So depending on how strict your standardization officer is, it would be better to wait and all get the same kind of bag at the same time. There are also regular blues shirts and princess cut shirts for ladies. I think the princess cut shirts look a lot better, but again, if your standardization officer is strict, everyone may have to have the same cut and so you may have to buy another shirt if you have the other kind.

Good luck to you! :luck:

I got my uniforms online at the AAFES exchange. Had the name tapes sewed on here, so they were all ready to go when I got there. I just bought my mess dress at COT, and it was much more relaxing. Granted, it was 5 years ago. Sounds a little more stressful now. Good luck! Steve

I was at the July COT like the OP. Some other things that you need to know:

-- Bring 10 copies of your orders.

-- As the OP said, memorize the operating instructions ASAP. You'll get yelled at for not knowing them---even on the first day!

-- Bring $300 in cash. You will have to pay for all of your meals, the dining out, and a host of other expenses. The only thing that is free is the laundry room, but you will need bring laundry detergent and drier sheets.

-- Purchase the book Air Force Officer's Guide. It's not on amazon.com---so you'll have to Google for the publisher. You'll need to know the ranks a few other details about being an officer so that you can decrease the amount of yelling that occurs the first few days.

-- Have a proper hair cut. Men, shave your hair to 1/4 of an inch. Otherwise, you'll be sent to the barber shop and be out of another $8.

-- You do not need a military ID. Your orders will work just fine---just make sure to have them with you every where you go.

-- Do not sign up to be the standardization officer. It is the worst position that you can have in your flight. Take photo, athletic, or academic officer instead.

-- Study. Seriously, study. I know that the last thing you want to do is stay up past midnight every night learning about conflict resolution, management theory, and the history of the Air Force, but the competition is fairly competitive. If you want to make distinguished graduate, you'll need to do well on the tests. Also, read ahead---especially on weekend mornings. Class will go by much quicker if you know the material before hand.

-- You have to mix water with the shoe polish to shine your boots. I spent 3 weeks rubbing dry polish into my boots and subsequently got yelled at during every uniform inspection for having dull shoes. It wasn't until the last week that my flight commander told me that I was supposed to use water.

-- Have a good attitude about everything, even when they're yelling at you. Some people hated certain aspects of COT (such as marching everywhere) and were miserable the entire month.

-- Make your flight commander love you and everything will go over much easier. Also, do exactly as you're told---no more, no less---and you'll be fine.


Feel free to post any questions to this board as I will check it regularly. As an aside, I was the vice president of the dining out and a distinguished graduate, meaning that I was pretty involved with everything that happened. I enjoyed COT a lot and still occasionally talk to my flight mates.

-- You have to mix water with the shoe polish to shine your boots. I spent 3 weeks rubbing dry polish into my boots and subsequently got yelled at during every uniform inspection for having dull shoes. It wasn't until the last week that my flight commander told me that I was supposed to use water.



When I did ROTC, I found cotton balls to be better than regular cloth when you shine your shoes. Also, nylons work well for any last minute/emergency cleaning you might need.

You can always find a ROTC detachment somewhere, or you can have your recruiter practice reporting procedures and/or marching with you.

Go to a nearby AF base. Proceed to Military Clothing. Let one of the clerks know that you're newly commissioned and that you need to be directed about which uniform components to buy. Of course, you will need to obtain your military ID before you'll be allowed to buy uniforms. Use your commissioning paperwork at the MPF (military personnel flight) to get your ID.


The only papers that I recieved after my commissioning was a copy of the oath of office. Will this be sufficient for obtaining my ID? Thanks

Go to a nearby AF base. Proceed to Military Clothing. Let one of the clerks know that you're newly commissioned and that you need to be directed about which uniform components to buy. Of course, you will need to obtain your military ID before you'll be allowed to buy uniforms. Use your commissioning paperwork at the MPF (military personnel flight) to get your ID.

Will the oath of office paperwork be sufficient for obtaining my ID? This is the only paperwork that was given to me after my commissioning? Or do I need to get in contact with my recruiter and beg for some more papers? Because the less I talk to my recruiter the better.

Hey, just wanted to say thank you for writing this thread- this is excellent advice. I might be going to COT this summer so this will definitely be helpful! :D

Will the oath of office paperwork be sufficient for obtaining my ID? This is the only paperwork that was given to me after my commissioning? Or do I need to get in contact with my recruiter and beg for some more papers? Because the less I talk to my recruiter the better.
If I remember correctly, I believe that your Oath of Office will suffice. To be on the safe side, you can google bases nearby, call the base directory to be connected to the MPF. They'll tell you exactly what you need.

Good luck!

Hey, just wanted to say thank you for writing this thread- this is excellent advice. I might be going to COT this summer so this will definitely be helpful! :D

Just for comparison's sake: I attended the precursor of COT in 1992. Back then it was known as MIMSO: Military Indoctrination for Medical Service Officers.

It was 3 weeks of pure country club. Totally laid-back, no yelling, no mandatory PT, completely laissez-faire. We stayed in the Visiting Officer's Quarters, single occupancy hotel-quality rooms with maid service, etc. Eight hours of sleep each night, with frequent forays into downtown San Antonio. It was on the grounds of the Medina Annex of Lackland AFB, TX.

Throughout the 1990s, as I served in the USAFR, I heard continuous stories of active duty commanding officers complaining about the medical folks, how they were so slovenly, disrespectful, ignorant of basic USAF customs, heritage, and traditions, and completely lacking in "military" mindset. In the late 1990s the USAF decided to tighten the screws, to make the course more "in your face" with the hope it would be a more meaningful and memorable educational experience. At this point they changed MIMSO into COT, and moved it to Maxwell so it would be a parallel course to Officer Training School (pre-commissioning course for line officers who didn't do ROTC or the USAF Academy).

Y'all have fun now.

One word of advice is to wash your BDUs and all of the patches that will be sewn on prior to having them sewn on. This pre-shrinks them to prevent puckering that occurs if you let the shrinking occur after they are sewn on.

I was wondering if anyone knew when air force and navy training is. I have heard that army obc is normally in mid June.

Anyone know what the deadline is for reporting on the Sunday before OIS (Initial Report Date/Time) and how early we can book a flight out on graduation day? Unfortunately I won't be able to stay on to enjoy Newport. Does anyone have family or friends attend graduation? NROWS is not exactly intuitive. Anyone know what we enter for items like ITEMPO category/purpose, messing options and per diem? Thanks!

I just got my orders for OIS yesterday. They say to report no later than 0700 on Sunday, does this seem off to anyone? I was under the impression that we did not have to report until afternoon/evening, say around nlt 2200.

At any rate, if there are any of you out there who have already been to OIS, what do you recommend I do with uniforms that I have but need hemming? I suspect it will save me some grief if I have them tailored and dry cleaned before reporting.

Also, has anyone else heard about 8mm sidearm training for this year's classes?

Any other general advice for OIS is welcome, too.

I'm headed to Newport this June for OIS and am wondering what sort of stuff I should bring. I'm not exactly sure what to expect and certainly don't want to show up with 2 trunks full of crap that I can't/won't use. Clearly snacks and meds are out but what about: Books? Frisbee? Football? iPod? Laptop? DVDs? Street clothes? etc.?
Any info is appreciated. Thanks a bunch.

I'm headed to Newport this June for OIS and am wondering what sort of stuff I should bring. I'm not exactly sure what to expect and certainly don't want to show up with 2 trunks full of crap that I can't/won't use. Clearly snacks and meds are out but what about: Books? Frisbee? Football? iPod? Laptop? DVDs? Street clothes? etc.?
Any info is appreciated. Thanks a bunch.

Here's the official "bring this stuff" list, https://otcn.netc.navy.mil/ois/index.cfm/fa/dir.missn/index.cfm#oischool but in talking to some people who went last summer from my school, they said they didn't need everything on the list, but honestly I can't remember what. I'll ask them again, otherwise just follow the list. I think that's what our group this year is going to do.

I'm headed to Newport this June for OIS and am wondering what sort of stuff I should bring. I'm not exactly sure what to expect and certainly don't want to show up with 2 trunks full of crap that I can't/won't use. Clearly snacks and meds are out but what about: Books? Frisbee? Football? iPod? Laptop? DVDs? Street clothes? etc.?
Any info is appreciated. Thanks a bunch.[/QUOTE]

About 2 pairs of civilian clothes is appropriate. We only got to go out to Newport in them one evening. Then a change for the flight home. No snacks. iPod is fine. Laptops are useful. BRING DVD's! No ball sports were allowed last year because of problems with injuries they had in the past, but some people passed the ball around rather than playing football. Frisbees are probably fine. Ultimate was frowned upon.

Cleaning wipes/swiffers are very useful.

You don't have a whole lot of space.

You can bring meds if you have a prescription.

The OIS website has checkin/out info, but I recall arriving in the afternoon on Sunday, and that graduation was over before noon on Friday.

Good luck shipmate.

Anyone know what the deadline is for reporting on the Sunday before OIS (Initial Report Date/Time) and how early we can book a flight out on graduation day? Unfortunately I won't be able to stay on to enjoy Newport. Does anyone have family or friends attend graduation? NROWS is not exactly intuitive. Anyone know what we enter for items like ITEMPO category/purpose, messing options and per diem? Thanks!

NROWS has a contact person for your orders. Email or call them with questions. The HPSP handbook at http://nshs.med.navy.mil/hpsp/Pages/HPSPHome.htm
has instructions for filling in the form as well.

Thanks for all the suggestions! I will be attending COT this June. What is the IAAP training?

I don't remember ever actually doing IAAP training (it's security training for DOD computers). I might have completed it and just don't recall what happened. During my COT session, the computer system had major problems and people were unable to log into their accounts (including me). I went the whole month without a working password. Luckily, my roommate shared his.

Thanks for the information, very useful and pertinent as I will be attending COT in June. It seems one only needs the oath of office to purchase uniforms. MPF was closed at McGuire and I was able to buy boots and some required supplies without a military ID card (showing my commissioning documents). FYI, summer BDU's and common sizes for dress blues may not be available as was the case for me.

Does anyone know of recognized sources to order name tapes, name plates, and badges etc?

I'm only aware of AAFES. You might have to make two trips a base: one to order everything, including the tailoring of your clothes, and a second time to pick everything up. You can wait until COT to purchase your uniforms. The store at Maxwell is good about getting everyone fitted.

I don't remember ever actually doing IAAP training (it's security training for DOD computers). I might have completed it and just don't recall what happened. During my COT session, the computer system had major problems and people were unable to log into their accounts (including me). I went the whole month without a working password. Luckily, my roommate shared his.


Haha... I served as the flight computer officer back in 2004 when i went to COT, and the computer system was a total mess. By the time tech support gets around to resetting your password, its TD 23 and time to go home. Bring a laptop if you have one it will make life alot easier.

Bring a laptop if you have one it will make life alot easier.

I second the laptop idea. At least bring a key drive if you have one. I knew one student who showed up with a laptop and a printer/scanner/copier all-in-one. He never had to leave his room to do assignments.

Does anybody know where to get a copy of the Operating Instructions for COT?

Does anybody know where to get a copy of the Operating Instructions for COT?

see if this site helps;

http://www.afoats.af.mil/OTS/

I have looked on that site before, and have not been able to find the Operating Instructions. Have you found it on that site?

I have looked on that site before, and have not been able to find the Operating Instructions. Have you found it on that site?

I would call down there and find out what exactly is included in "Operating Instructions". Once you find that out they could either tell you where to find it on their site, or you could do a Google search and find it elsewhere on the internet. Usually these things are under Air Force Operating Instructions "AFI"s.

sorry cant help more.

The response from AFIT was that all required information is available on the mentioned website and typically the OI's on the web are outdated. Also, COT students are not required to complete IAAP training (per AFIT). Just thought I'd pass it along.

Also, COT students are not required to complete IAAP training (per AFIT).

Well that was an hour wasted.

I just went through COT in January and they are currently "reworking" the OIs. The OI's we received were mixed in with those from BOT and were difficult to interpret. They had been posted on the OTS website before it underwent the recent makeover. I (and the majority of my classmates) did not read the OI's before COT, and they wouldn't make much sense even if you could. You have a 20 question exam on the OIs the second week you are there. You only need an 80% to pass and it was pretty simple. My advice is to not think about them until you get there.

I tried looking at the OI's before going to COT last year. Like chaDoc said, they made no sense. They were written as a legal outline, only the language was less interpretable than federal laws. The good news is that doing well on the exams is easy: Stay on top of the readings and do the SOB's (You'll find out what an SOB is when you get there).

Well that was an hour wasted.
This is debatable I believe...
Last summer it was a requirement to do the training. It is currently listed as a requirement on the COT website. If you have access to it and have the time, it can't hurt to take care of it.

The link takes you to a website www.skillsoft.com which appears to be a publicly traded company. Very strange unless I'm missing something.

I got the same thing...

Has anyone had problems logging into the NROWS application in order to complete the OIS application? I keep on receiving a message saying that my account is locked. What does this mean?

Has anyone had problems logging into the NROWS application in order to complete the OIS application? I keep on receiving a message saying that my account is locked. What does this mean?

Kind of an obvious suggestion, but you never know if you overlook something simple...
The NROWS website switched over to the NRWS site. You have to log into NRWS first, then go to the NROWS site from there and log in again. Pain in the butt, but its not my job to qonder about it...

Hey guys:
Does anyone have info on their experience with OBC with the army. You know the daily grind and local area info. Is it really only 15 days or so? Thanks

Hey guys:
Does anyone have info on their experience with OBC with the army. You know the daily grind and local area info. Is it really only 15 days or so? Thanks

Daily grind aint bad, you will have class most days in the morning to mid afternoon, PT maybe once a week, with a one week FTX. You will be able to go out most nights if you want and most of your weekends are free. Local area is cool, there is a Dave and Busters/Movie theater nearby with the Riverwalk being a short cab ride away downtown. Go tubin on the Gruene/Guadalupe, get your free tix to Seaworld, and Austin is close. Make friends with people who drove, you will not regret it. Length is not 15 days, 5.5 weeks. It was a good time, you will get to meet all the people that you will be seeing on your military rotations and who will be your fellow interns/residents. Also a good place get the dirt on rotations sites and get a feel for BAMC if you are willing to shadow in a specialty you are interested in.

I'm a 3rd year about to be 4th year and joined the Navy after my 1st year - when would be the best time to complete OIS. I can't really complete it this summer b/c I have audition rotations planned but I would like to complete it sometime before I begin my internship. Is it even possible to do OIS before the summer months. The website alludes to programs in which winter gear is required. Does anyone hav any clue?

Just a random question I couldnt answer when my friend asked.

Do HPSPers get trained in any firearms? I know we wont be trained to used M-16s....I couldnt find any info on the COT website.

At some point, very early on, they might play some games with a Marine NCO or SNCO yelling at you, but the only reason this works is because none of the O-1 and O-3 med students and dentists know that Staff Sergeants don't yell at officers. This isn't OCS; you're not an "officer candidate" ... you're already a commissioned officer. Your future is not in question. You're there to check a box. Don't let any of the stupid games they may or may not play with you rattle you.



Did anyone call out the Staff Sergeants for yelling at officers?

Does anyone know how long it take NMETC to give you your login so you can sign up for OIS once they receive your commissioning documents? Or does anyone have any contact info for them so I can find out?

I figured it out, thanks!

I have heard they "encourage" you to buy the mess dress. I went 11 years in the AF and never used it. My former partner who spent 3 yrs in after COT and he never used it. Unless you want to get married in it for some insane reason.

When I went in 1991 it wasn't called cot. We did all the marching but mostly we went to class, worked out, and went out drinking each night. There was no yelling at us.

Cot turned into the head shaving experience with some AF academy punks yelling at you about attention to detail. Seemingly, not so fun. And for the marching... I never marched once in 11 years of active duty as a resident or staffl...

I have my orders for Navy OIS, but where do I get my plane ticket?

I have my orders for Navy OIS, but where do I get my plane ticket?

I am not totally sure about Navy OIS but for COT all I had to do was call Omega World Travel Agency and e-mail them my orders. Within 5 minutes, I called them again and they e-mailed me an itinerary and electronic ticket which I printed out. I am thinking it works the same way. Is there any travel agency number on your orders?

I have my orders for Navy OIS, but where do I get my plane ticket?

Normally, whenever you receive official orders (which indicates funding is confirmed) the info is shared laterally with the Scheduled Airline Travel Office. SATO automatically makes your travel reservations and send you an info email.

Contact your orders issuing office if you fail to receive an email from SATO within 1-2 weeks of getting your orders.

Unless specifically approved in writing, DO NOT make your own reservations and expect reimbursement. This requires written pre-approval and is very rare.

Questions for those who have already attended OIS:
1) What type of classwork do you do?
2) How many, if any, presentations do you do?
3) How are the living quarters: space available, personal bathrooms or communal bathrooms?, etc.
4) What happens after classwork each day (freedom, etc.)?

Thanks

1) there are several types of boring lectures that you will struggle to stay awake in. they consist of military law, surface warfare stuff, navy procedures, and navy leadership.
3)You will share a room with one other person in a room that is probably smaller than your undergrad dorm room. It is a communal bathroom, seperate for girls and boys of course, for everyone on your floor.
4)The first couple of weeks you will go from 4am-8pm and then you will have from 8-10 (lights out) on your own but you will not have freedom you will have plenty of cleaning, studying, getting uniforms ready, ect.

Things will start to ease off in the third week but be prepared for a rough ride in the beginning. It is not the OIS it used to be, it is much more hard core.

1) there are several types of boring lectures that you will struggle to stay awake in. they consist of military law, surface warfare stuff, navy procedures, and navy leadership....

Aw, come on now, what's 230 years of barnacle-encrusted tradition not violated by common sense or modernization? :rolleyes:

Are they making y'all write an official Navy letter in official Navy style (unlike anything used anywhere else) using the Navy correspondence manual? +pissed+

When you report to Navy OIS, do you need to bring your MEPS Physical Evaluation form? Or, does OIS already have a copy? If so, how do you obtain one?

Thanks,

If you are HPSP then NMETC sent your records down to OIS for you. You will not need to bring your medical records with you. Do bring your immunization records if you have them. If you do not they will just give you all of those shots again.

If you are HPSP then NMETC sent your records down to OIS for you. You will not need to bring your medical records with you. Do bring your immunization records if you have them. If you do not they will just give you all of those shots again.

Thank you! You have been of tremendous help!

How much bearing does Navy OIS have on a physician's future: for example, residency selection. Do military residency program directors look at OIS records (physical training tests, class rank, etc.) during the selection process or do they not look at it much, if at all?

Thanks

How much bearing does Navy OIS have on a physician's future: for example, residency selection. Do military residency program directors look at OIS records (physical training tests, class rank, etc.) during the selection process or do they not look at it much, if at all?

Thanks

While you're at OIS, you get a FITREP, an evaluation, but it is not observed, meaning it really doesn't bear much weight. It mostly just says that you went. So, not a whole lot of impact on your future, just so long as you make it through and don't do anything ridiculously stupid.

Tips from a 2d Lt who just came back from COT:

1)be prepared to drink lots of water. They forced us to drink 4 cups at every meal in the beginning of the month. Pretty hard for us smaller size people.

2)Yes, we needed to buy all our uniforms, including the mess dress(formal) that we will most likely only wear once.

3)Be prepared to get yelled at, even when you were not told how to do it beforehand. Most of time, they will not tell you how to do a certain thing or know a certain custom. It is all part of the training, so just learn from your mistakes and do not take it personally.

4)Find a former enlistee to help you out. They are the best resources as far as customs and tips on how to look good in the uniforms.

5)Getting along with your flight(class)mates will make the experience soo much better. You will be working with them ALOT!

6)No personal email or internet use in dorms! I hope they make this clear when they revise the COT website. We had to go to the library or the break room on the other side of campus. Cell phones are ok.

6)Most importantly, this is NOT a gentlemen's course! Yes, it is nothing compared to enlistee training, but don't expect it to be a walk in the park. It will be long days (4:30am to 5pm), and they will push you hard physically(think about PT every morning at 5am) and mentally(leadership and group excercises/responsibilities held by certain positions)

Please don't be scared though...it was bad only in the first couple weeks. After that, you get used to it and start to enjoy the classes and the people that you work with. The staff, fellow students, and facilities are wonderful and you will have lots of fun and the sense of accomplishment afterwards is amazing! Hooah!!:thumbup:

Tips from a 2d Lt who just came back from COT:

1)be prepared to drink lots of water. They forced us to drink 4 cups at every meal in the beginning of the month. Pretty hard for us smaller size people.

2)Yes, we needed to buy all our uniforms, including the mess dress(formal) that we will most likely only wear once.

3)Be prepared to get yelled at, even when you were not told how to do it beforehand. Most of time, they will not tell you how to do a certain thing or know a certain custom. It is all part of the training, so just learn from your mistakes and do not take it personally.

4)Find a former enlistee to help you out. They are the best resources as far as customs and tips on how to look good in the uniforms.

5)Getting along with your flight(class)mates will make the experience soo much better. You will be working with them ALOT!

6)No personal email or internet use in dorms! I hope they make this clear when they revise the COT website. We had to go to the library or the break room on the other side of campus. Cell phones are ok.

6)Most importantly, this is NOT a gentlemen's course! Yes, it is nothing compared to enlistee training, but don't expect it to be a walk in the park. It will be long days (4:30am to 5pm), and they will push you hard physically(think about PT every morning at 5am) and mentally(leadership and group excercises/responsibilities held by certain positions)

Please don't be scared though...it was bad only in the first couple weeks. After that, you get used to it and start to enjoy the classes and the people that you work with. The staff, fellow students, and facilities are wonderful and you will have lots of fun and the sense of accomplishment afterwards is amazing! Hooah!!:thumbup:


How many weeks was your COT class? Got any idea how many weeks will it be for the August COT class?

Should I start memorizing the OI from the OTS website now?

How many weeks was your COT class? Got any idea how many weeks will it be for the August COT class?

Should I start memorizing the OI from the OTS website now?

My class was from May29th-July 1st. I don't think they will change the length for the august COT class.

The OIs are a good thing to memorize before going to COT. It didnt make any sense to me at first, but when I got there and actually started implementing it, it made a lot more sense. I wouldnt worry too much about them, but it never hurts to be prepared because you will be tested on them the first week.

Thanks for the quick response.

Another question: I know we will get tested for the 1.5-mile run. I've heard people are getting timed for the 3-mile run as well. Is that true?

Thanks for the quick response.

Another question: I know we will get tested for the 1.5-mile run. I've heard people are getting timed for the 3-mile run as well. Is that true?
Last year we had one run that was 3 miles, it was timed...but it was not for any official purpose. The people who came in first got recognized I believe, but it is not part of the PFT or anything else that will ever matter.

Note: They said it was 3 miles, but I am pretty sure it was actually shorter...

Tips from a 2d Lt who just came back from COT:

1)be prepared to drink lots of water. They forced us to drink 4 cups at every meal in the beginning of the month. Pretty hard for us smaller size people.

2)Yes, we needed to buy all our uniforms, including the mess dress(formal) that we will most likely only wear once.

3)Be prepared to get yelled at, even when you were not told how to do it beforehand. Most of time, they will not tell you how to do a certain thing or know a certain custom. It is all part of the training, so just learn from your mistakes and do not take it personally.

4)Find a former enlistee to help you out. They are the best resources as far as customs and tips on how to look good in the uniforms.

5)Getting along with your flight(class)mates will make the experience soo much better. You will be working with them ALOT!

6)No personal email or internet use in dorms! I hope they make this clear when they revise the COT website. We had to go to the library or the break room on the other side of campus. Cell phones are ok.

6)Most importantly, this is NOT a gentlemen's course! Yes, it is nothing compared to enlistee training, but don't expect it to be a walk in the park. It will be long days (4:30am to 5pm), and they will push you hard physically(think about PT every morning at 5am) and mentally(leadership and group excercises/responsibilities held by certain positions)

Please don't be scared though...it was bad only in the first couple weeks. After that, you get used to it and start to enjoy the classes and the people that you work with. The staff, fellow students, and facilities are wonderful and you will have lots of fun and the sense of accomplishment afterwards is amazing! Hooah!!:thumbup:

And oh God get ready to have a motivational reply statement for everything. I agree with you about most of the above, but you CAN and probably should rent your mess dress uniform. I was lucky enough to room with a prior enlisted and he helped me tremendously. Make sure you bring a flash drive, your cell phone, and a cigarette lighter to burn off the strings in your uniforms. Best piece of advice though, don't kill yourself every weekend to make a 97 on your exams instead of a 90. Have fun with the people you're with, and all the yelling and midnight turnins/4am wakeups will be a whole lot easier to deal with.

Griffins are grrrrrreat!
Okay fellow 06-05'ers, what Flights were you in?
Alpha flight here.
Med school:
UNECOM
Motivation:
110%!
Hoooah!
;)

For COT, should we bring 1 or 2 pairs of boots? I've heard to bring one pair for inspection and another pair for marching/field exercises.

Aside from your running shoes, does it help to bring cleats and basketball shoes?

Is it really worth it to sew down your BDU pockets?

Thanks!

For COT, should we bring 1 or 2 pairs of boots? I've heard to bring one pair for inspection and another pair for marching/field exercises.

Aside from your running shoes, does it help to bring cleats and basketball shoes?

Is it really worth it to sew down your BDU pockets?

Thanks!


You only need one pair of boots, and have them professionally shined before you come. Lots of times you'll have an inspection at 3 in the afternoon, after you've been busy scuffing up your boots doing drills and wrinkling up your uniform sitting in lecture for the past 7 or 8 hours, so have somebody with a lintbrush, lighter, and shoeshine rag on them and do the best you can. Dorms are off limits between 8a and 5p so you can't very well go back and change boots anyway. Well broken in running shoes (don't go buy any just before you leave) and flip-flops should be sufficient, maybe a pair of Clarks or something for when you go off base. And make sure you're wearing comfortable shoes and non-heatstroke-inducing clothing when you pull up in the parking lot/get off the plane. Your COT experience begins right then.

Can't sew down your BDU pants pockets -- you'll be carrying around your cap and wallet and stuff in them. You ever get caught with something bulging/hanging out your other pockets and you'll get dressed-down for it. Doing so to your jackets, however, seems like a good idea. Just make sure you cut off the buttons first, or you'll get button-shaped rings when you iron. Don't forget the one on your right lapel.

And make sure you're wearing comfortable shoes and non-heatstroke-inducing clothing when you pull up in the parking lot/get off the plane.

hmm... are we allowed to wear the black under armour or nike dri-fit shirts underneath our BDUs?

thanks for answering!

hmm... are we allowed to wear the black under armour or nike dri-fit shirts underneath our BDUs?

thanks for answering!

Not sure on that one. BDU undershirts have to be black; as long as there aren't any logos visible then from that standpoint it should be OK. Then again from time to time you'll be taking off the jacket, and you'd be unstandardized (and unless you're stacked a bit ridiculous looking too). So I'd have to lean towards no. Anybody else have any thoughts?

Not sure on that one. BDU undershirts have to be black; as long as there aren't any logos visible then from that standpoint it should be OK. Then again from time to time you'll be taking off the jacket, and you'd be unstandardized (and unless you're stacked a bit ridiculous looking too). So I'd have to lean towards no. Anybody else have any thoughts?

During certain field excercises, we will be working in just our shirts. I would think that as long as there is no visible logo on the shirt (I think that will not be possible with underarmor) it will be ok. And yes, I agree about people who are on the skinny side not looking good in them :meanie:

Hello,

Are they pretty with what kind of socks you can wear for PT? I'm thinking about getting these ASICS low-cut socks that are good for wicking, but I'm worried about the colors and logo. I usually run with no-show socks, and I have a feeling they won't like that.

Thanks!

P.S. anyone attending COT class 06-07?

Does anyone know if the runs at OIS are company runs or individual??? If company, what pace are they at?

Thanks

I'd just have to say, in general, relax about it. No matter how much you prepare, they will yell at you for something, so just be respectful and try to have a thick skin. I went to COT four years ago, and had a rotten time, graduating nowhere near the top of the class, and I still did just fine in med school, and I got my first choice residency and site.

So good luck to you all, and I'll look forward to seeing you on the wards while I'm a resident. I guarantee you I will pay more attention to how much you know about fluid managment than shoeshining.

Other then your PRT the runs at OIS are class runs, usually three companies. They divide it into 3 pace groups based on the your 1.5 miles run time on the practice PRT in the 1st week. I would not worry about it.

Other then your PRT the runs at OIS are class runs, usually three companies. They divide it into 3 pace groups based on the your 1.5 miles run time on the practice PRT in the 1st week. I would not worry about it.

Actually it depends on when your OIS starts. If it's in the summer when there are more companies, then this will probably be the norm for group runs. I participated in OIS in the winter (March) so there were only two companies. Both companies either ran together as one class or as separate companies. For my company, our Senior Chief put the three shortest people in the front (which meant me as one) to set the pace due to our shorter legs. It didn't bother us so much but you heard a lot of "encouragement" from the back for those who were taller or faster runnrs.

Just curious, do we get paid for Army OBC this summer and if so when? If not, no big deal just curious.

I am not 100% sure on this but I think we get an advance in the month prior to OBC for uniforms etc and then we receive pay throughout OBC according to the regular Army pay dates. I am sure someone around here will be able to offer more info.:)

I do not know about the Army but when I went to OIS last summer we did not get an advance for uniforms or anything. We got active duty pay on military pay dates and they included the uniform allowance in one of those paychecks.

thanks everyone

For USUHS folks -- Do we get the housing allowance based on the Bethesda area while were at OBC? If we are arrange housing and a move before OBC, it would be nice to get the compensation.

I will be going to AF COT this summer and am looking to buy a pair of boots to break them in before I go. I can't find any specifications on the AFOATS website as to which boots to buy (only to buy boots early). I was looking at these ones: http://www.shoeshackonline.com/site/623303/product/17146

Do you think they would work? (Note that they are not all-leather) I don't want to run into standardization issues when I get there...

One other thing... AFOATS says to bring a laptop and printer if you can. Everything I've read and my common sense says to go with as little very light things as possible. Any input from people who have been there?

The link below is to the air force exchange. You will need to get your boots from the uniform department. The link directs you to the uniform section but you will need to enter your SS# and date of birth to enter the site. That is how they know you are legally allowed to purchase military uniforms. Buy the boots they have on there and you should have no problem.


https://thor.aafes.com/ics/default.asp?loc=department.asp~dept_id=11998

I am waiting for NMETC to finish processing my paper work and assign me a login so I can register for OIS this summer. Is there a point at which they "fill-up?" I am worried I will have to wait until next summer to do OIS.

Last summer I got into a class 1-2 weeks before it started and there were still spots open when the class started. Just sign up as soon as you can.

Do we have to login somewhere to register for OBC? I recieved an email telling me a place has been reserved etc. and saying that orders have ben requested to attend OBC and USUHS but haven't heard anything since.

Did anyone call out the Staff Sergeants for yelling at officers?

don't confuse your rank with their authority and you'll go far.

for that matter, don't confuse your rank with their wisdom and you'll go even farther

what are the PT requirements to max out for a 26 y.o. male?

ans

can we bring and ipod to OIS and if so can we use it while running?

thanks

Technically you can bring the Ipod but it must remain locked up in your locker. You are not allowed to use if for PT. Actually for the first 4 weeks we were not allowed to use any personal electronics.

I'm new to this. I will be going to COT this summer, and I was just wondering if we get to swim at COT. I know about the running, sit-ups, push-ups, etc for the PT test, but I was just wondering if we got to do anything else for PT.

I'm new to this. I will be going to COT this summer, and I was just wondering if we get to swim at COT. I know about the running, sit-ups, push-ups, etc for the PT test, but I was just wondering if we got to do anything else for PT.

Nope. Although after awhile (2 weeks?) you can visit the base pool at your leisure.

so I chose my med school in mid/late febuarary, and the board approved me in late march, at which time i was submitted to the "Scroll." My recruiter says it takes another 6-8 weeks before my ComDocs come in, and then DEERS and so forth before I can register for OIS. My only hope is to be able to register for the June 25 class.

Did it take this long for everyone else, or is something fishy going on?

I worked with USPHS so I know it takes a while, but it seems to be taking a bit longer than expected.

Last year I was accepted for Navy HPSP at the end of Jan and I was not commissioned until May 19th. Once you are commissioned they have to enter all of your paperwork in the system and that takes another week or two. I made it into the June ~5th class last year only 1 week before it started. They will only rush you into the class if you school is year round (mine is and it is the only reason I made it to OIS last summer). PM me if you have any questions

Ok so I'm headed to San Antonio in about 2 weeks. I have bought my boots and the majority of the gear needed. I decided to wear my boots to class today to break them in. My feet are now killin me. My heels feel like they are really going to blister up. Any advice on what to do to make them more comfortable? Or should I just take the boots back and get another pair?

Ok so I'm headed to San Antonio in about 2 weeks. I have bought my boots and the majority of the gear needed. I decided to wear my boots to class today to break them in. My feet are now killin me. My heels feel like they are really going to blister up. Any advice on what to do to make them more comfortable? Or should I just take the boots back and get another pair?

I fthink I tried this method...

How To Break In New Boots: This will wreck any polish work you've done so far, but sure beats a year of normal wear to properly break in new boots. However you do it, every CSMR training announcement requires that you have broken in boots on arrival.

Lace the boots up as above. Leave it pretty loose. Now fill each boot with warm-to-hot tap water. Let them soak for 5 minutes.
Put on a heavy pair of boot socks. After they've soaked the 5 minutes, empty the boots of excess water. If you plan to wear arch inserts with them, insert them now, put the boots on and lace up snuggly. Wear until dry. Walk around as much as you can while they dry - helps stretch them where they need it.

After they're dry, take them off and remove the inserts. There will still be a lot of moisture in the leather, so set them aside to dry but not in direct sunlight. Wear them for awhile the next day (with inserts and boot socks). Make sure they're absolutely dry before starting any polishing - about 24 to 48 hours more depending on humidity. Some folks still blister easily.
*********

There's also more comfortable boots like Ridge Air-Tac or Altama. I would just try to break in the normal boots a little more slowly, walk with them for a mile and add some distance/time every day. Eventually you need to jog in them. If you can't do that by the time you report, then think about trading. You can also lubricate and/or put a blister block (e.g. moleskin), which they did a lot during basic training.

Hello, This thread is extreamly useful.
I'm new to this too. I will be going to COTs this summer.
I was wondering about how many people attend COTs?
Does anyone have their lecture notes they would like to sell?
Any place where they can be bought beforehand?
Thanks for all the advise, folks.

Hello, This thread is extreamly useful.
I'm new to this too. I will be going to COTs this summer.
I was wondering about how many people attend COTs?
Does anyone have their lecture notes they would like to sell?
Any place where they can be bought beforehand?
Thanks for all the advise, folks.

There is no need to prepare ahead of time for the academic aspect of COT. If you really want to study something ahead of time, the only productive thing would be the Operating Instructions (available on the COT website). If you learn some basic military customs and courtesies from that before you show up, it will save you some grief in the first few days.

My advice is:
1. Realize that the first few days are a "boot camp" atmosphere. Some people were quite shocked when they got off the bus and found a drill sergeant waiting for them instead of a welcome committee! You will very likely get singled out and yelled at for at least one faux pas but there will be no "drop and give me 20" or any other form of physical punishment. After the first weekend the instructors will begin letting up on you and start showing their human side. The remainder of your time should be fun/interesting.
2. You will be busy the whole time; don't expect to get a lot of sleep.
3. Get in shape before you arrive, you'll thank yourself. (running, situps, crunches)
4. If you can purchase your uniforms beforehand that will be one less thing to worry about during the first few days of the course, but if this isn't possible no worries.

Otherwise, just go in with a good attitude and do your best; you'll be fine and will meet a lot of great people.

Okay, Thanks :)

how about the field conditions down at Fort Sam for OBC? Are we talking Tents sleeping on the ground? or are we talking barracks with air conditioning? I'm obviously ok with whatever, i'm just wondering what to expect...

Also, has anyone done the 2 week reserve component course?

how about the field conditions down at Fort Sam for OBC? Are we talking Tents sleeping on the ground? or are we talking barracks with air conditioning? I'm obviously ok with whatever, i'm just wondering what to expect...

Also, has anyone done the 2 week reserve component course?

HA! Its HOT down here in San Anotonio! I did not know you would be going to OBC this summer. I'm at Brooks AFB for the school of Aerospace Medicine orientation course. We were over at Brooke Army Medical Center yesterday for the whole day. Very nice facility! Anyways, good luck with OBC!
Cheers,

Anyone mind letting us know how a "proper" sit-up/push-up is executed.

This is how I'de think they'de want us to do them
push up, hands shoulder length apart, chest and nose touch the ground?
sit up, feet braced down, all the way up and all the way down?

So who else is leaving for COT on the 2nd?

yeah I'm leaving tomorrow to drive down there. Should be a nice road trip.

Anyone mind letting us know how a "proper" sit-up/push-up is executed.

This is how I'de think they'de want us to do them
push up, hands shoulder length apart, chest and nose touch the ground?
sit up, feet braced down, all the way up and all the way down?

You don't go all the way to the ground....your chest should hover just a little bit above the floor.

How long did it take everyone else to get to second class status? It took COT class 07-05 two and a half weeks.

Are Oakley Assault Boots kosher for Navy wear? Tan or black?

You will not wear boots at OIS.

You will not wear boots at OIS.

Yeah I didnt think so, but I was just wondering for beyond OIS.

Unless you're on a ship, don't wear boots.

And you don't wear any tan shoes unless you're a pilot or a flight surgeon.

how about the field conditions down at Fort Sam for OBC? Are we talking Tents sleeping on the ground? or are we talking barracks with air conditioning? I'm obviously ok with whatever, i'm just wondering what to expect...

Also, has anyone done the 2 week reserve component course?
It's not that bad. While we were at Camp Bullis, which was around 14 or so days this year instead of one week, the tents were air conditioned. The AC works pretty well. We slept on cots and found a scorpion in our tent on 3 or 4 different nights. I also found one in my foxhole while zeroing the M16 and had one crawling on my arm during a "hard target" convoy. They tell you to only turn on the AC at night when going to sleep but we turned it on whenever we were in there, which was the rare occasion; they try to keep you hanging around outside or on bleachers in the sun all day-you're not suppose to go to your tent except to sleep, but there were exceptions.
The biggest thing, although it's difficult cuz you don't know anyone well for a while, is to try to get into a good platoon when they are formed. It makes all the difference in the world to be with people who have a good sense of humor and don't take the BS too seriously. Try to be in the tent/platoon with the comedian of the group. It really makes the days and nights out there go faster.

Also, here are some pics from OBC 2007:
http://picasaweb.google.com/nathan.jaqua/OBCCampBullis
http://picasaweb.google.com/nathan.jaqua/OBC2007JuneJuly
http://picasaweb.google.com/nathan.jaqua/OBCRiverwalk

hey guys,

i'm just curious as to how much ethnic diversity there is among the participants in officer training, in particular the navy, but any other branches will do. also, would you say that most of the people at OIS/OBC/COT are already pretty decent athletes?

Hi, quick question: Do you have to wear those big glasses if you're dependent on contact lens? I'd be interested in going the military route if I ended up pursuing a M.D./D.O. One way to avoid wearing them during OIS/OBC/COT would be to have lasik surgery beforehand, yeah?
(btw, no knock on anyone who's wearing them, it's just that I used to wear glasses during P.E. in middle school and it sucked big time:thumbdown)

Hi, quick question: Do you have to wear those big glasses if you're dependent on contact lens? I'd be interested in going the military route if I ended up pursuing a M.D./D.O. One way to avoid wearing them during OIS/OBC/COT would be to have lasik surgery beforehand, yeah?
(btw, no knock on anyone who's wearing them, it's just that I used to wear glasses during P.E. in middle school and it sucked big time:thumbdown)


At least in the Navy, the more hard core version of officer camp, you DO NOT need to wear BCGs, aka Birth Control Goggles, for OIS. Also know that Lasix is supposively an automatic disqualification for flight surgery. the other eye surgery is ok, but Lasix is NOT and they could tell me why in Pensacola.

OIS is referred to as knife and fork school by the regular military. It was extremely easy, the tests all had handouts prior which gave you the answers in a nutshell, and the primary mission is to give you a quick background on the military, learn how to dress appropriately and a quick crash course in military customs. The friends I made at OIS I still have today, it was a fun experience, and I spent more time socializing, learning how to sail and shopping then anything else. You'll have a blast.

OIS is referred to as knife and fork school by the regular military. It was extremely easy, the tests all had handouts prior which gave you the answers in a nutshell, and the primary mission is to give you a quick background on the military, learn how to dress appropriately and a quick crash course in military customs. The friends I made at OIS I still have today, it was a fun experience, and I spent more time socializing, learning how to sail and shopping then anything else. You'll have a blast.

I would be cautious making the generalization that it is "easy". No, none of the material is difficult but the quality of life depends completely upon your division LCPO, or Chief. Sure they have restrictions about how long PT can be, etc. but you can get a hard ass chief who tosses your rooms every night, moves students from room to room every night, makes surprise visits during lights out, etc... Or you could get a laid back one who doesn't care as long as your division is on time to everything and doesn't make him/her look incompetent in front of your class officers (usually line LTs, CDRs.)

Luck of the Draw

I would be cautious making the generalization that it is "easy". No, none of the material is difficult but the quality of life depends completely upon your division LCPO, or Chief. Sure they have restrictions about how long PT can be, etc. but you can get a hard ass chief who tosses your rooms every night, moves students from room to room every night, makes surprise visits during lights out, etc... Or you could get a laid back one who doesn't care as long as your division is on time to everything and doesn't make him/her look incompetent in front of your class officers (usually line LTs, CDRs.)

Luck of the Draw

Ditto. Mine was pretty damn hard core with the early morning PT and constant cleaning and having our rooms torn apart. I got called a dickhead for the first time in my life...and told that I looked like a bag of ass every other day. Know that the Navy is a a lot more hardcore than the AF and Army. I hear they can go off base or to the O-club prior to the last weekend, stay in BOQs and do not have the 10 minute messing meals for the 6 weeks.

KentuckyOBGYN when did you go to OIS? About 4 years ago they changed it from knife and fork school to something more hardcore. My experience was a lot like the previous two posts.

Ditto.
I'm still recuperating from the traumas at COT.

At least in the Navy, the more hard core version of officer camp, you DO NOT need to wear BCGs, aka Birth Control Goggles, for OIS. Also know that Lasix is supposively an automatic disqualification for flight surgery. the other eye surgery is ok, but Lasix is NOT and they could tell me why in Pensacola.

It depends on your prescription whether you would be eligible for service with the aid of LASIK or PK (the 'other surgery' you refer to I assume); LASIK is not an automatic disqualification, but it's definitely something you should research more officially than via this forum before you commit.

I knew there was a P, U, and K in it, but not in that order.

according to the flight surgeons in pensacola who walked me through the flight physical and non-waver disqualifications, the two things that could not be waved were if your body dimensions were not compatible (sitting height, hip knee length, reach, etc) or if you had lasik eye surgery.

has this changed? were the flight surgeon and corpsman I was dealing with wrong? it is relivant to my situation, so if it is I would definitely like to know.

i can't seem to figure out how to deleat this...damn pda

I knew there was a P, U, and K in it, but not in that order.

according to the flight surgeons in pensacola who walked me through the flight physical and non-waver disqualifications, the two things that could not be waved were if your body dimensions were not compatible (sitting height, hip knee length, reach, etc) or if you had lasik eye surgery.

has this changed? were the flight surgeon and corpsman I was dealing with wrong? it is relivant to my situation, so if it is I would definitely like to know.

Yes, for AF at least this is fairly recent: http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123054564
Re-read your post and saw you're Navy; don't know if it's the same, but a quick google search brought up some positive stuff.

Yes, for AF at least this is fairly recent: http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123054564
Re-read your post and saw you're Navy; don't know if it's the same, but a quick google search brought up some positive stuff.


Thanks! I could not find anything quite as specific pertaining to the Navy, but hopefully if the AF is changing the standard they will follow. AF/Army and Navy have different flight programs for their medical officers and the Navy class allows for flight time for the physicians in training, but it seems like the vision requirement is being changed for all aviators.

Does anyone know the deadline for applying to Army OBLC this summer? I can't find the info for some reason. Thanks.

I don't think the Army has even released the dates for OBC this summer. At least not as of this past week when I tried to request orders for it through MODS.

I don't think the Army has even released the dates for OBC this summer. At least not as of this past week when I tried to request orders for it through MODS.

Yeah, I tried to do the same and they still had the 2007 dates up. Guess it will take a little time.

Yeah, I tried to do the same and they still had the 2007 dates up. Guess it will take a little time.


If you go to this incredibly cheesey website-

http://www.cs.amedd.army.mil/obc/

You will see that the page reserved for upcoming class schedules is under construction. I can't BELIEVE it is the official website for OBLC. It looks like a 3rd grader did it.

I called down there about a month ago and the commandant ripped me new one because I was calling too soon to find out about HPSP/USUHS OBLC start date. That's what I get for trying to be ahead of the game I guess.

It's not that bad. While we were at Camp Bullis, which was around 14 or so days this year instead of one week, the tents were air conditioned. The AC works pretty well. We slept on cots and found a scorpion in our tent on 3 or 4 different nights. I also found one in my foxhole while zeroing the M16 and had one crawling on my arm during a "hard target" convoy. They tell you to only turn on the AC at night when going to sleep but we turned it on whenever we were in there, which was the rare occasion; they try to keep you hanging around outside or on bleachers in the sun all day-you're not suppose to go to your tent except to sleep, but there were exceptions.
The biggest thing, although it's difficult cuz you don't know anyone well for a while, is to try to get into a good platoon when they are formed. It makes all the difference in the world to be with people who have a good sense of humor and don't take the BS too seriously. Try to be in the tent/platoon with the comedian of the group. It really makes the days and nights out there go faster.

Also, here are some pics from OBC 2007:
http://picasaweb.google.com/nathan.jaqua/OBCCampBullis
http://picasaweb.google.com/nathan.jaqua/OBC2007JuneJuly
http://picasaweb.google.com/nathan.jaqua/OBCRiverwalk

Hooah! I can't wait. My favorite pic is "bad assess getting ready to clear a building."

If you go to this incredibly cheesey website-

http://www.cs.amedd.army.mil/obc/

You will see that the page reserved for upcoming class schedules is under construction. I can't BELIEVE it is the official website for OBLC. It looks like a 3rd grader did it.

I called down there about a month ago and the commandant ripped me new one because I was calling too soon to find out about HPSP/USUHS OBLC start date. That's what I get for trying to be ahead of the game I guess.

Thanks for the link! Hopefully we will be able to register soon.

Also, do you know how long it takes for a secret clearance to get pushed through? I opened mine in October, I heard from somebody that it can take three months to a year :eek:

^^^ No idea. I have never actually completed one. I have started it like 3 times and then forgot about it. Hasn't seemed to matter much, and I have "needed" one for about 7 years. (Even when I was enlisted I needed one because I was mental health) .Never missed a promotion, deployment or any favorable action because of it. I think this is why the BS in the Army doesn't bother me much. If it doesn't seem important to me, I ignore it until someone of higher rank (usually in the form of being on an email s*** list) makes me do it.

^^^ No idea. I have never actually completed one. I have started it like 3 times and then forgot about it. Hasn't seemed to matter much, and I have "needed" one for about 7 years. (Even when I was enlisted I needed one because I was mental health) .Never missed a promotion, deployment or any favorable action because of it. I think this is why the BS in the Army doesn't bother me much. If it doesn't seem important to me, I ignore it until someone of higher rank (usually in the form of being on an email s*** list) makes me do it.

Well, that makes me feel better.

Hey all- for those asking, my recruiter just gave me some info that said this summer it's from 6/9-7/20. Still deciding though- any advice?

The 2008 dates are up for OBLC are up on the MODS form. Looks like it's gonna be 6/15 to 7/28. Hope to see some of you crazy kids there!

I was at the July COT like the OP. Some other things that you need to know:

-- Bring 10 copies of your orders.

-- As the OP said, memorize the operating instructions ASAP. You'll get yelled at for not knowing them---even on the first day!

-- Bring $300 in cash. You will have to pay for all of your meals, the dining out, and a host of other expenses. The only thing that is free is the laundry room, but you will need bring laundry detergent and drier sheets.

-- Purchase the book Air Force Officer's Guide. It's not on amazon.com---so you'll have to Google for the publisher. You'll need to know the ranks a few other details about being an officer so that you can decrease the amount of yelling that occurs the first few days.

-- Have a proper hair cut. Men, shave your hair to 1/4 of an inch. Otherwise, you'll be sent to the barber shop and be out of another $8.

-- You do not need a military ID. Your orders will work just fine---just make sure to have them with you every where you go.

-- Do not sign up to be the standardization officer. It is the worst position that you can have in your flight. Take photo, athletic, or academic officer instead.

-- Study. Seriously, study. I know that the last thing you want to do is stay up past midnight every night learning about conflict resolution, management theory, and the history of the Air Force, but the competition is fairly competitive. If you want to make distinguished graduate, you'll need to do well on the tests. Also, read ahead---especially on weekend mornings. Class will go by much quicker if you know the material before hand.

-- You have to mix water with the shoe polish to shine your boots. I spent 3 weeks rubbing dry polish into my boots and subsequently got yelled at during every uniform inspection for having dull shoes. It wasn't until the last week that my flight commander told me that I was supposed to use water.

-- Have a good attitude about everything, even when they're yelling at you. Some people hated certain aspects of COT (such as marching everywhere) and were miserable the entire month.

-- Make your flight commander love you and everything will go over much easier. Also, do exactly as you're told---no more, no less---and you'll be fine.


Feel free to post any questions to this board as I will check it regularly. As an aside, I was the vice president of the dining out and a distinguished graduate, meaning that I was pretty involved with everything that happened. I enjoyed COT a lot and still occasionally talk to my flight mates.

Distinguished graduate? What is the incentive? Ugh, self-motivation? I'm in trouble. :meanie:

Kidding, really looking forward to COT this summer if I am selected for the HPSP. It's better than cleaning cars and painting walls all summer which is what I've done every summer until now during college. Seriously.

Haven't marched since marching band in high school. Should be interesting.

LOL I can see how this would get ugly extremely fast.

Good catch though.

Oops didn't quote... this was in response to staff sergeants being called out about yelling at officers...

LOL I can see how this would get ugly extremely fast.

Good catch though.

Oops didn't quote... this was in response to staff sergeants being called out about yelling at officers...

COT is tiring but you'll really get to know and probably like the folks in your flight. Med students know how to study usually you'll probably DG without trying. Mapquest to buffalo wild wings and other beer and wing serving establishments=good times in montgomery, AL...well maybe not really but better than without

oh by the way try to get some help with uniforms before hand if at all possible....the uniform buying thing is a complete cluster when you get there

I'll be at COT in July...

What's the story for the PT? Should I be able to run a 6min mile pace or is it a bit more relaxed?

For general information, I've attached COT dates.

I'm assuming most HPSPers will be in the June 30-August 1 or May 27-June 27 sessions.

To answer your question, you won't be disqualified from anything based on performance at COT. But there was a list floating around here of times etc that you have to shoot for and a scoring scale. I will try to find that this evening to post up here. The scale was based on 1.5 mile times, situps, and pushups.

I heard we also get to do a confidence course :) Should be fun!

Hey all, looks like this thread's been going for a few years, but I haven't found many postings on the physical training at the ODS in Newport. My concern is the sit-ups. I know I can easily do the 1.5mi run in the "Excellent-LOW" range, and will probably get myself up to the "Satisfactory-MEDIUM" in the pushups. BUT, I have never done the sit-ups in my life (yes, I know it's pathetic), and having just tried it recently, I am just a whimp (way below "Probationary" score for my age). Plus, I seem to have discomfort in my lower back after doing the sit-ups even when I am consciously trying to maintain the proper form.

My question is: if I won't pass the PFT (or is it PFA now?) at the end of the ODS, will I not then graduate? How hard is the physical training for those who are not athletic beyond being able to run well? Have you guys had any classmates who were just ain't cutting it in some of the physical training requirements? If so, what happened to them?

Hey all, looks like this thread's been going for a few years, but I haven't found many postings on the physical training at the ODS in Newport. My concern is the sit-ups. I know I can easily do the 1.5mi run in the "Excellent-LOW" range, and will probably get myself up to the "Satisfactory-MEDIUM" in the pushups. BUT, I have never done the sit-ups in my life (yes, I know it's pathetic), and having just tried it recently, I am just a whimp (way below "Probationary" score for my age). Plus, I seem to have discomfort in my lower back after doing the sit-ups even when I am consciously trying to maintain the proper form.

My question is: if I won't pass the PFT (or is it PFA now?) at the end of the ODS, will I not then graduate? How hard is the physical training for those who are not athletic beyond being able to run well? Have you guys had any classmates who were just ain't cutting it in some of the physical training requirements? If so, what happened to them?

The best thing to do is practice every day. You will be tested on the PROPER Navy situp which goes something like this (this may sound stupid but hang with me). Lay on your back with knees bent until your feet are a few inches from your butt on the ground. It helps to have someone holding your feet. Your hands will be crossed and placed at the front of your shoulders. You will sit up until your elbows touch any part of your thighs. Go back down and do it again as many times as you can in 2 minutes. A situp is not counted if your hands come away from the front of your shoulders or your elbows don't touch. You can rest in the up or down position.

You probably wont be doing these kinds of situps until you actually test out on them, but it is best to know the proper form so you can practice. You will actually be doing other kinds of abdominal exercises like flutter kicks and crunches (lots of them) so its best to get ready early.

Here is a site you may find useful to help you with situps:
http://www.navy-prt.com/trainingsitup.html

Good Luck! :D

Seriously, how badass are they gonna get on us?

I lift 3-4 times per week and I'm going to run/swim in the month preceding COT, but some of their criteria are crazy! I dont know many med students that would surpass "satisfactory" on their rating scales.

Yeah, well I don't know how "badass" they will be. That's why I am asking ;)
The requirements ARE crazy for someone who is a professional student *not* a warrior. The situp program that SF49ersFan posted (thanks for your reply, btw) jumps from 25 to 60 in six weeks. Give me a break, I can barely do 15! So, I wonder if anyone else can answer my question if I won't pass the PFT at the end of the ODS, will I not then graduate? How hard is the physical training for those who are not athletic beyond being able to run well? Have you guys had any classmates who were just ain't cutting it in some of the physical training requirements? If so, what happened to them? Thanks!

Seriously, how badass are they gonna get on us?

I lift 3-4 times per week and I'm going to run/swim in the month preceding COT, but some of their criteria are crazy! I dont know many med students that would surpass "satisfactory" on their rating scales.

If you are going into the Army or AF, and you are working out 3-4 times a week, you wont have any problems. I never did their training, but the word from the other guys in my class that were Army and AF is that PT at their officer training was a joke. :cool:

My question was about the Navy. Does anyone know?

Yeah, well I don't know how "badass" they will be. That's why I am asking ;)
The requirements ARE crazy for someone who is a professional student *not* a warrior. The situp program that SF49ersFan posted (thanks for your reply, btw) jumps from 25 to 60 in six weeks. Give me a break, I can barely do 15! So, I wonder if anyone else can answer my question if I won't pass the PFT at the end of the ODS, will I not then graduate? How hard is the physical training for those who are not athletic beyond being able to run well? Have you guys had any classmates who were just ain't cutting it in some of the physical training requirements? If so, what happened to them? Thanks!

I highly doubt that they will actually CUT you from your scholarship if your performance is unsatisfactory. They aren't recruiting you for your brawn.

Contact your recruiter. Make him/her do the work for you to find the answer :)

Yeah, well I don't know how "badass" they will be. That's why I am asking ;)
The requirements ARE crazy for someone who is a professional student *not* a warrior. The situp program that SF49ersFan posted (thanks for your reply, btw) jumps from 25 to 60 in six weeks. Give me a break, I can barely do 15! So, I wonder if anyone else can answer my question if I won't pass the PFT at the end of the ODS, will I not then graduate? How hard is the physical training for those who are not athletic beyond being able to run well? Have you guys had any classmates who were just ain't cutting it in some of the physical training requirements? If so, what happened to them? Thanks!

No offense, but maybe this is a calling for you to get in shape. If you are like me and in your 20's think of this as the PRIME of your life.

You wouldn't even have to do much if you're going to the summer session. Just run or do the ellipitical machine 2-3X per week for 5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes (as you get in better shape) and finish up with a few situps and pushups each time gradually doing a few more each time. It WILL get easier and in two or three months you will look back and wonder how you weren't able to do it before. You don't have to go "warrior" and max out at 300 lbs on the bench, just take baby steps. Again, if you're young your body will acclimate quickly provided you don't overexert yourself. (It seems like you prob don't work out much... if you do, I apologize for the assumption)

Hey, no offense taken, but I am older than you think. 38. In fact, I believe that I *am* in shape. I'll likely outrun most of the people in my class because I've been jogging 3.5miles daily rain or shine for the last 10 or so years. It's just staying fit never included sit-ups or push-ups for me. When I tried the push ups, it seems that you're right-- I can gradually work myself up to at least the "satisfactory" level. But the sit-ups are different for me. I have really hard time getting anywhere past 15. Thus my concern.

Ok, so I am going to sound like a TOTAL loser but...
I know we have PT at COT/OBLC (haven't decided between branches), but I am a female who has bad genes when it comes to weight and I have to work out 1.5-2 hours/day to keep my weight down. Is it possible to work out on your own at these places, or do they not let you? I'm just wondering, since that would totally screw me. thanks all!

Ok, so I am going to sound like a TOTAL loser but...
I know we have PT at COT/OBLC (haven't decided between branches), but I am a female who has bad genes when it comes to weight and I have to work out 1.5-2 hours/day to keep my weight down. Is it possible to work out on your own at these places, or do they not let you? I'm just wondering, since that would totally screw me. thanks all!


actually I had the same question not because of weight issues but I'm a runner and just can't get through the day without my morning run. Will they have any problems with us waking up early and going for a run before things get going

actually I had the same question not because of weight issues but I'm a runner and just can't get through the day without my morning run. Will they have any problems with us waking up early and going for a run before things get going

I am pretty sure at OBLC you will be in billeting (it's like an on-post hotel) with a first fomation time every morning that you have to get yourself to. (It's not like Basic training where the drill sergeants come into the barracks banging on trash cans and yelling at everybody--been there, done that). So I guess conceivably you get up at whatever time you want to do any amount of running you feel like doing. The worst thing you can do in the military is not be where you are supposed to be, when you are supposed to be there.

nice, i feel much better- i'm totally with you laura, i cannot function without some form of exercise in the morning!

Does anyone know when we will actually receive our orders to go to OBLC/COT/OIS? I've already applied, but I have a feeling it will be a while before I hear anything back.

Hello I am new to the forum and recently completed my MEPS physical. I'm now waiting on my security clearance and eligablilty/ letter of acceptance from the AF review boards. With that said, I have been told by my recruiter that I will be attending the June 08' COT class which I believe starts on the 30th. Is anyone else attending this class? I have gotten the answer to several of my questions from the blog, altough I have soem other pretty general questions.

1.) I need to select bases for my application/contrat to the AF. I am a CCU nurse and I am interested in furthering my education in anesthesia as a CRNA, I would also like to be part of the AF CCAT (critical care air transport team). So which bases would best benifit me with the above in mind.

2.) Were can I find more info on what I need to bring to COT?

Hello I am new to the forum and recently completed my MEPS physical. I'm now waiting on my security clearance and eligablilty/ letter of acceptance from the AF review boards. With that said, I have been told by my recruiter that I will be attending the June 08' COT class which I believe starts on the 30th. Is anyone else attending this class? I have gotten the answer to several of my questions from the blog, altough I have soem other pretty general questions.

1.) I need to select bases for my application/contrat to the AF. I am a CCU nurse and I am interested in furthering my education in anesthesia as a CRNA, I would also like to be part of the AF CCAT (critical care air transport team). So which bases would best benifit me with the above in mind.

2.) Were can I find more info on what I need to bring to COT?

You will find this website to be your one stop shopping spot for detailed info about COT. http://www.afoats.af.mil/OTS/COT-RCOT/COTDOletter.asp Read it carefully! There are links to the left of this page that will explain a lot of things. The more you read the smoother your transition will go. You should plan to drive as it will make life much more fun during your down time. Also get the packing list and take you uniforms with you! You don't want to be part of the cluster buying there and getting screwed on sizes, or having them sew something on wrong because they are doing so many. Other option is to arrive a couple days early and get all the uniform stuff done.
USUHS has a CRNA program you could apply to while on active duty.

From reading all the posts here (thank you, very helpful!) I understand to get uniforms ahead of time. What's the deal with bringing personal laptops? Allowed but cannot get personal email in the dorm room?

Is there anyone here going to COT 1 Jul- 1 Aug? Is the class usually approx 300 people? even worse, 300 people in good shape? thanks!

Can't speak to the computer thing---though my friend who just got back said the absolute best thing you could bring would be a portable printer/scanner/drive thingie. Not required but apparently will save you lots of time/effort.

BUT, I wanted to make sure everyone got the heads up on the uniforms if you are pre-buying---which is still a good idea.

ABU's are now the required uniform at COT and as you probably know they are getting very hard to come by at some bases and online. If you are going to any of the summer classes I'd get on it now....

I'm peeved because I've been drilling for months in uniform prior to attending COT (and couldn't get the ABU's 'cause there were none so I bought the tree suits instead) and once fully trained my AFSC requires the flightsuit so now I gotta go buy a whole bunch of OTHER uniforms I won't be wearing ever again....... I guess this is one of those officer "privileges" :)

Ok, personal rant over....thanks for listening....

Definitely bring a laptop, a USB drive, and a printer/scanner/copier. The reason is that your entire flight (16 people) will have access to only one computer. Further, the computers are not accessible after 9PM. On several occasions I had to use my roommate's computer to type my assignments at 9:30 or whenever I got the time.

Technically, you can't have personal through services such as Hotmail and Yahoo. Unpopular websites don't get blocked. I used mail2web.com (http://www.mail2web.com) and got by just fine with checking my school's email.

Definitely bring a laptop, a USB drive, and a printer/scanner/copier. The reason is that your entire flight (16 people) will have access to only one computer. Further, the computers are not accessible after 9PM. On several occasions I had to use my roommate's computer to type my assignments at 9:30 or whenever I got the time.

Technically, you can't have personal through services such as Hotmail and Yahoo. Unpopular websites don't get blocked. I used mail2web.com (http://www.mail2web.com) and got by just fine with checking my school's email.

I agree about bringing a laptop but for different reasons. The flight does not share 1 computer as far as I know. I went in June 06 and we had 1 computer in each room, so 1 computer per 2 students since you have a roomate. You can use it 24/7 whenever you need to. My reason for taking a laptop is that you will not want to sit in your room doing assignments! Panera in montgomery has free WiFi so you can go sit have some coffee and do your personal e-mail and assignments in a much nicer place than those little COT rooms. We had no need for a scanner so I'm not sure what Deuist used it for.

When I went, only some of the dorms had computers---not all of them. What's worse is that my password (along with half of my flight's) never worked the entire month. Our only available computer was the one in the flight room---hence, why I said 16 students to one computer. The copier was necessary for a few occasions when we needed to make copies of assignments and handouts. While there is a copy machine in the class building, going there is quite a walk.

For Navy do you have any free time to workout at the gym on your own? It's a good stress reliever to me, and the schedule I saw seems like the day is fairly packed.

I also read for Navy you can't eat in your room because of "pests". Does this mean cockroaches? I hate roaches... them and spiders are the two things that freak me out...:scared:

Ha,
What great comments about COT. I was at Maxwell AFB this past summer doing AFROTC Field Training and have to say, it's pretty funny watching a 100+ line of commissioned officers greeting ROTC cadets as they walk by at attention. Don't worry, I was completely jealous of you all the whole time.

Thanks for imparting your experience!

For Navy do you have any free time to workout at the gym on your own? It's a good stress reliever to me, and the schedule I saw seems like the day is fairly packed.

I also read for Navy you can't eat in your room because of "pests". Does this mean cockroaches? I hate roaches... them and spiders are the two things that freak me out...:scared:
I never saw any live cockroaches in Newport, I think there were too many geese. :D

My Chief was pretty laid back, so we had free time at the end of the day and on weekends to workout if we wanted to.

Ha,
What great comments about COT. I was at Maxwell AFB this past summer doing AFROTC Field Training and have to say, it's pretty funny watching a 100+ line of commissioned officers greeting ROTC cadets as they walk by at attention. Don't worry, I was completely jealous of you all the whole time.

Thanks for imparting your experience!

I do not recall being required to greet anyone but commissioned officers...the BOT folks and ROTC folks greeted us since we were all commissioned officers...but then again there are a lot of confused officers walking around there!

Hi everyone,

I'm a first year med student who attended COT last summer. I browse these forums occasionally and figured I would add some random tips/info from my COT experience after not seeing any on here. I know this is some stuff that I would have liked to have known before I went.

In no particular order...

-Try to purchase your uniforms before you get there & have them altered and pressed before you arrive. The first couple of days are extremely long and tiring just trying to wait in line to get your uniform, hoping that they still have your size. I envied those who already had everything. Also, start shining your boots.

-Print off and know the OI's (operating instructions) before you arrive (They should be on the COT website.) When I arrived there they starting yelling as we got off the bus. I expected that, but some people were surprised. They will yell at you to tuck in your shirt (ladies, think carefully about wearing skimpy tops). Don't wear sandals. They will want $5 and your travel orders in hand. Then they will give you a copy of your OI's and tell you to learn them. You will need to know how to report in that night, which can be humiliating if you can't think of the correct reporting statement.

-Try to do your IAAP training before you arrive.

-Get there asap on the day of arrival. I arrived later in the afternoon, along with a ton of other people so we were up really late that night waiting to get checked in. My roomie had already unpacked all her stuff and was ready for bed by the time I made it up to my room.

-The dorm rooms are very nice! They were much nicer than my college dorm room. You have your own captain's bed, night stand, chest of drawers (one drawer locks, bring a combination lock), desk, sink, and a large walk in closet. You only have to share the toilet and shower with your roomie.

-Most rooms have a computer with restricted internet access. Most people could not check private e-mail, but it is a 10 minute walk to the library for full internet access.

-Bring at least one dressy outfit to go out to dinner. My flight and I went out a few times.

-But do not pack too much because you will be returning with A LOT more luggage (especially if you don't buy your uniforms ahead of time)

-Practice running the 1.5 mile. I am not much of an athlete, but I ran 3 miles/walked 1 mile almost every day for about a month and a half before COT. I did really well in the run compared to other members of my flight (with the exception of a few really good athletes).

-You won't get much sleep. You have to get up at 4:30 am every morning for PT. What time you go to bed varies. My roomie and I often didn't get to bed until 12:30am. A rare number of people managed to get to bed by 10.

-Get started on your samples of behavior (lesson objectives) as soon as lectures start. It'll make it easier when the exam comes instead of trying to do them all the night before.

-HAVE A GOOD ATTITUDE! You'll enjoy it more.

-The first few days may be high stress. You'll adjust after the 2nd week.

- The July course that I took was shortened and had the most people of all the sessions. I think that you normally have your weekends off, but we didn't because our session was shortened. I had 317 people in my class. It was composed of highly intelligent MDs, DOs, medical & dental students, dentists, JAGs, chaplains, nurses, and others.

-Try to bring all $10 bills and smaller. You need smaller bills for the cafeteria. The food wasn't too bad tasting but not the healthiest. It is supercheap. You can talk and eat freely, although in the beginning they may try to limit your time to eat. The OTS and ROTC cadets had to sometimes eat with us. I felt bad for them having to eat at attention while we were pretty loud.

-You will be able to use your cell phone in the dorm and in break rooms during the day. They also have phones in the dorm that you can use a calling card with.

-Last year was the first year that they allowed you to store non-perishable food in your dorm room.

-We only had one room inspection, and that was when we were checking out.

-There is a ton of marching to do, but it's not that bad. Just get it down right away because if you keep on making mistakes you will get targeted.

-The days can be long, with classes taking the majority of the day. PT was usually at 5:15am. Then classes started at either 7 or 8 am and sometimes went until 6pm. Then you ate dinner and spent the rest of the evening studying, shining your boots, ironing, etc. One of the hardest struggles was to stay awake in class. My flight members and I had to watch out for each other to make sure we didn't fall asleep and get targeted.

-If you are a major or above, or a captain who was commissioned a while ago, prepare to be a leader right away.

- We had a ton of fun at the formal event at the end of our training (I'm having a brain fart right now on what they called it....something like a military ball). However, some people exceeded their alcohol limits and embarrassed themselves by having to be carried, puking, to their dorm rooms.

-Overall COT was a really good experience and I was sad to say goodbye to some people.

Feel free to PM me or post other questions on here.

:)

Hi. I was wondering if you are doing the HPSP and which branch? I just was offerend an AF HPSP and am trying to get some insight from current HPSP medical students. Please let me know anything and everything that you know about the HPSP from an insider prespective. Was there anything in your contract that you had them correct before signing it?

I have a question about tailoring one's uniforms (assuming some of you guys purchased them in advance of your summer training session)... I just purchased most of my stuff (during spring break) but at a base near my house which is not near my school... how do I get onto a base that is more local to my school to have this stuff altered while I'm out at school? Can I just show up at a front gate with my COT travel orders/appointment paperwork? I also have to pick up a few more things that this particular base didn't have at the time.

Thanks!

Um... you just drive up and show them your military ID card?

Hey is anybody going to COT from May to June 08? I am a bit nervous and am curious how others are preparing (PT/learning AF stuff).

Hey is anybody going to COT from May to June 08? I am a bit nervous and am curious how others are preparing (PT/learning AF stuff).

I am going in July, and started on my pushups/situps in February because I was far below the minimum standards. Alas, I already built up my endurance for both (running was never a problem for me, so I didn't even bother to "work" on that). So, my advice is start strengthening whatever weak PT areas you may have, and you'll be fine. I think their website http://www.afoats.af.mil/ots/ has a PT prep guide as well. BTW, I hear that the COT is a piece of cake compared to the Navy's ODS, so we'll be fine!

Anybody know what they are? I'm going by my dad's recommendation of 50 push ups, 60 sit-ups, 10 pull ups (all the preceding in two minute sets), and a 14 minute 2 mile. I can do everything except the push ups without much trouble--at 6'1" my triceps burn out around 40 and I have to do them one-by-one thereafter. Is there any reason to work for more than those numbers? Will someone be holding my feet for the sit ups? If not, am I done if my toes come off the deck?--I do them with my feet slipped under my couch to help with the balance. For the push ups, are we tested on elbows out (wider than shoulder emphasizing chest), elbows in (flush to body, emphasizing triceps), or is any form we want fair game?

I used to run track and figure I could get back down to an 11 minute 2 mile in the next two months if I really bust my butt, but is it even worth it? eg will they give me less crap if I can rock the PT stuff from the gate or can i just relax at it a bit? Is it better to just stick with the pack on the PT stuff? I have a competitive swimming background and am really interested in doing UMO Training, so will my ODS PFT results follow me? If I dominate it does that make me a better candidate later on?

Thanks, I know it's a lot of questions.

Do a search for fitness standards and your particular branch of service. The standards are based upon gender and age. At COT, someone holds your legs during situps and the count is pretty easy going---done by your classmates.

Is it crunches or sit-ups? I keep reading crunches, but does someone know for sure???

Is it crunches or sit-ups? I keep reading crunches, but does someone know for sure???

i believe it's sit-ups. the guide for COT says "crunches", but when you read the description it sounds suspiciously like a sit-up.

i believe it's sit-ups. the guide for COT says "crunches", but when you read the description it sounds suspiciously like a sit-up.

I think they are actually something in-between. Odd I know...but that is just the way it is.

Arms corssed with hands on shoulders, motion carried to point where elbows touch legs. Apparently no pull-ups(?)

This is what I found on google. Again no pull-ups for some reason and the pushups are only to parallel, not til your chest is just off the ground (had to touch a tennis ball in high school). Still don't think I'd ever do 80 pushups straight without breaking proper form and execution, my goal now is 80/70/10:00 for the final PFT...
http://navyrotc.berkeley.edu/resources/PTstandards.pdf
http://www.navy-prt.com/files/6110.1H.pdf

USN Physical Readiness Test Standards
(Test site elevation LESS than 5,000 ft above sea level)
Performance Males: Age 20-24 years

Performance Leve Pts: Situp Pushup 1.5mi 500yd 450m
Outstanding High 100: 105 87 8:30 6:30 6:20
Outstanding Medium 95: 103 86 9:00 7:00 6:50
Outstanding Low 90: 98 81 9:15 7:30 7:20
Excellent High 85: 94 77 9:45 8:00 7:50
Excellent Medium 80: 90 74 10:00 8:15 8:05
Excellent Low 75: 87 71 10:30 8:45 8:35
Good High 70: 78 64 10:45 9:30 9:20
Good Medium 65: 66 55 11:30 10:30 10:20
Good Low 60: 58 47 12:00 11:30 11:20
Satisfactory High 55: 54 45 12:45 12:00 11:50
Satisfactory Medium 50: 50 42 13:15 12:15 12:05
Probationary 45: 46 37 13:30 13:00 12:50

I go to the gym a lot, but it has been like months since I did a push up. Guess I gotta get started.

Does it even matter at OIS, like really matter? Because I am thinking medicore keeps people from making you squad leader or whatever lame thing.

I don't know about OIS, but your physical fitness level has nothing to do with leadership at COT. You will, however, get invited to join the platinum club and get to work out indoors while everyone else is outside. Don't blow off the PT test; it counts toward your overall score for distinguished graduate.

What does it matter between working out indoors or outdoors? Are you prohibited from going to the weight room or something?

With distinguished graduate, does that actually mean anything after OIS?

hmm... I suppose if you're going for like 0-9 or something it might matter??? hehe...

With distinguished graduate, does that actually mean anything after OIS?

Uh.......NO.

HAHA, I figured.

But I probably wont even be going this summer. If ODS is full can I get school orders?

Titles like "distinguished graduate" don't matter for doctors since they have guaranteed promotion. Only the line officers really care about training awards.

Looks like ODS is full. Me orders were dissaproved. Does anyone know if I can do school orders now?

So I guess I will need to complete ODS for the Navy... during third or fourth years or after graduation.

this might be lame, but i'm totally worried about being physically prepared for COT. i'm working my arse off right now doing situps, pushups, running almost every day. i can probably work up to a "pass" of 75 before COT.

are most people at COT awesome athletes that run 8 minute miles and such? i just don't want to be the "crappy, weak one."

any input would be greatly appreciated. also, what's the male/female breakdown of trainees? is it mostly dudes?

Very few of the people at COT were athletes. I remember seeing several people vomit after the 1.5 mile run. If you're getting in shape now, you should be fine by the time COT rolls around.

Very few of the people at COT were athletes. I remember seeing several people vomit after the 1.5 mile run. If you're getting in shape now, you should be fine by the time COT rolls around.

ok, well i feel better then. i can definitely run 1.5 or even 3 miles without vomiting. :thumbup:

Additional HPSP OBLC information is now available - look for the small link near the top http://www.cs.amedd.army.mil/obc/1HPSP.htm

are most people at COT awesome athletes that run 8 minute miles and such? i just don't want to be the "crappy, weak one."

any input would be greatly appreciated. also, what's the male/female breakdown of trainees? is it mostly dudes?

This was Navy OIS, but there was probably an even male/female mix in my class. As the other user says, most were not awesome athletes by any means. In fact, if you are an athlete you might find yourself at a lower level of physical fitness when you finish than when you started...and even if there are more dudes, we had females who could do more pushups and run faster than a lot of the dudes.

Damn, looks like I wont be there this summer. Definite no on ODS. Which is either :( or :)...

Has anyone done ODS between second and third year? I know that is a pretty bad time with part of The Test coming up, but if anyone has and has managed...?

This was Navy OIS, but there was probably an even male/female mix in my class. As the other user says, most were not awesome athletes by any means. In fact, if you are an athlete you might find yourself at a lower level of physical fitness when you finish than when you started...and even if there are more dudes, we had females who could do more pushups and run faster than a lot of the dudes.
i'm not an athlete by any stretch of the imagination. my gym has free personal training so i've been taking advantage of that to get ready. one of the guys that works there also did OBC, so he's been helpful as well.

i just didn't want to be THAT girl that couldn't do pushups or lagged behind on the run or whatever.

i'm not an athlete by any stretch of the imagination. my gym has free personal training so i've been taking advantage of that to get ready. one of the guys that works there also did OBC, so he's been helpful as well.

i just didn't want to be THAT girl that couldn't do pushups or lagged behind on the run or whatever.

There were a lot of "THAT girls" and "THAT guys". As long as you can run and can do pushups, you'll be fine, and even if you are "THAT girl" your classmates won't care. At least my class was pretty encouraging of each other.

I'll second the encouraging part. Since we tested on a track, the people who finished first would go back and push the others to run faster. We even cheered on people from other flights we didn't know.

Just FYI for those going to COT. COT has an age range from like 22-40 something. There will be people in the flight that have not seen a track for years to months and people who don't know what a track is (well that may be a small fib but you get the drift). We did have 1 female in our company that ran a sub 9min 1.5 miles but only 1. If you have been exercising some or a lot you will be ahead of the majority that are there with you. Bottom line don't sweat the PT. When you go out in the morning make yourself work. Nobody is going to push you to do that extra pushup, situp, flutter kick, or whatever except you. You will get out what you put into it. Most people do improve their fitness scores during the time spent at COT.

Just FYI for those going to COT. COT has an age range from like 22-40 something. There will be people in the flight that have not seen a track for years to months and people who don't know what a track is (well that may be a small fib but you get the drift). We did have 1 female in our company that ran a sub 9min 1.5 miles but only 1. If you have been exercising some or a lot you will be ahead of the majority that are there with you. Bottom line don't sweat the PT. When you go out in the morning make yourself work. Nobody is going to push you to do that extra pushup, situp, flutter kick, or whatever except you. You will get out what you put into it. Most people do improve their fitness scores during the time spent at COT.

damn, I can easily run a sub 9 min 1.5, do we get extra points for that?:laugh:

damn, I can easily run a sub 9 min 1.5, do we get extra points for that?:laugh:

You get to go back and cheer on those who aren't as fast as you in a condescending tone like they're in elementary school!. ;) Joking. But a sub 9 mile and a half is pretty good and you'd be set for any of the training.

My fastest run has been 8:20ish with some hefty training (did too much and hurt myself) and most would come in around 9:30 to 10 minutes or so.

Additional HPSP OBLC information is now available - look for the small link near the top http://www.cs.amedd.army.mil/obc/1HPSP.htm

A couple of the links the site still don't work.

I'm trying to get to OBC this year (6/08). And, as some other have shared, I'm fighting the bureacracy. Trying to get something done in a timely manner seems impossible.

What makes it a little more difficult is I will be going to OBC the two months before I start med school. I'm ready to get OBC out of the way.

There were a lot of "THAT girls" and "THAT guys". As long as you can run and can do pushups, you'll be fine, and even if you are "THAT girl" your classmates won't care. At least my class was pretty encouraging of each other.

Was anyone bumped from training for PT reasons? Did all/most/few pass the PFT taken during the first week? Not terribly worried about it, but the point system the AF uses is pretty wonky. Been running / lifting since the first of the year to be ready, but sure don't want to finish last in the footrace.

Was anyone bumped from training for PT reasons? Did all/most/few pass the PFT taken during the first week? Not terribly worried about it, but the point system the AF uses is pretty wonky. Been running / lifting since the first of the year to be ready, but sure don't want to finish last in the footrace.

I'm curious about this as well.

Some failed. They had to remediate. Your score on the PFT doesn't matter. You're already an officer and no one in the medical chain of command cares how fast you could run 1.5 miles---especially given that you will have gone through COT six years before becoming an active duty physician.

How do you fail if your score on the PFT doesn't matter? What does remediation entail?

How do you fail if your score on the PFT doesn't matter? What does remediation entail?

I think I was reading somewhere on the COT page that you have to work out weekends (which would make it 7 days/week) to try to catch up.

I'm trying to tailor my running schedule to the schedule that we'll see at COT... does anyone know how many mornings per week we will be running/jogging and for how long at a time?

I'm trying to tailor my running schedule to the schedule that we'll see at COT... does anyone know how many mornings per week we will be running/jogging and for how long at a time?

the COT schedule says that we'll be doing PT for an hour a day 5 days a week and that there will be one 3 mile run.

When I went through COT, we alternated running days with push-up days. The most we ever ran was 3 miles.

When I went through COT, we alternated running days with push-up days. The most we ever ran was 3 miles.

by "push up days", do you mean days where you only did push ups?

I think I just found the answer to my question, one of the 2nd year students here at school said this:

"On average we ran 2-3 days a week at COT[last summer], not that much. There were two days during our whole time there where we had to run a set distance, which was 3 miles, the rest of the time we ran for a set amount of time, usually around 20 minutes."

by "push up days", do you mean days where you only did push ups?

We did other things, but no running on those days.

Hey all,

Looking forward to meeting you all in a couple weeks. I was planning on driving down (from Oregon) with golf clubs in tow until gas prices kept on rising and I probably was only going to get about $350 in reimbursement. Anyway, I'm flying down on Sunday, June 15 and will arrive in San Antonio ~4pm (16:00?). What's the best way to get to Ft SH?

On a serious note, should I bring my white coat, Snellen chart and stethoscope???

Hey all,

Looking forward to meeting you all in a couple weeks. I was planning on driving down (from Oregon) with golf clubs in tow until gas prices kept on rising and I probably was only going to get about $350 in reimbursement. Anyway, I'm flying down on Sunday, June 15 and will arrive in San Antonio ~4pm (16:00?). What's the best way to get to Ft SH?

On a serious note, should I bring my white coat, Snellen chart and stethoscope???
Taking a cab is probably the best. You don't need the listed items.

Anyone else driving to COT from the northeast? Wouldn't mind meeting up somewhere that is common like Rt 81 to caravan at some point. 16 hours is a LONG trip by myself devoid of entertainment.

What i learned from COT last year:

- I took a plane (i dont like driving, and i wouldnt drive unless my duty station is close to alabama/on way to next duty station - military only pays for the cheaper thing... flight vs car trip, unless you are including it in your PCS move)

- you'll need to cab it from the airport, costs about 10-15$, but dont worry about receipts.

- when you get there, you will be yelled at. If i were you i would look at all the stuff they send you/COT website, learn how to report in (i didnt receive info since i got into COT class late!)

- ladies, dont wear a dress/skirt. Wear something comfortable, but not scandalous your first day, since you will be wearing it on base the entire day! Also, bring some civilian clothes (you will be able to go out in super-fun montgomery - maybe not in the first week)

- Buy uniforms before you go if you can - will save you time/stress! P.S dont cheap out on the boots!! save your feet!

- the amount of PT is not that bad. We did two 5ks (3 miles), one was on the flight line and the other was around the golf course. PT is usually at 4-5am, and its nice b/c its a lot cooler outside. But do yourself a favor and run a bit outside in the heat before you go, alabama is much different than the air conditioned gym. Bring 2 pairs of sneakers (1 running pair, 1 crappy pair)

-Crappy sneakers are for the LRC, fun obstacle course activity, you may get wet!

-Relax, enjoy yourself, go with the flow - have a positive attitude, bring granola bars and instant coffee! (there are no room inspections at COT, unlike the navy OIS)
GOOD LUCK!!

And p.s

unless you are a student (hpsp or usuhs) your PT test does count on your officers eval now for AF, they changed the regs this past year, so its no beuno if you fail.

remediation involves mandatory group PT. Failing could alter your promotions, but doubt it.

And at COT you take 2 tests (prelim and real), only the 2nd one counts.

And p.s

unless you are a student (hpsp or usuhs) your PT test does count on your officers eval now for AF, they changed the regs this past year, so its no beuno if you fail.

remediation involves mandatory group PT. Failing could alter your promotions, but doubt it.

And at COT you take 2 tests (prelim and real), only the 2nd one counts.

:laugh::rolleyes:

Getting past that, where did you buy your uniform in advance of COT?

Getting past that, where did you buy your uniform in advance of COT?

From what I read here, you can get your reservist card and your uniforms at any AF base near your area.

I found this link, which may help you locate a base:

http://odin.aafes.com/bases/index.asp

I was wondering if someone can help me out with this. I just got my orders to attend COT, and I was wondering how do I go about making travel arrangements. I don't want to pay out of pocket and then get re-imbursed. Who do I contact to get a plane ticket? or will this be done automatically for me?

I was wondering if someone can help me out with this. I just got my orders to attend COT, and I was wondering how do I go about making travel arrangements. I don't want to pay out of pocket and then get re-imbursed. Who do I contact to get a plane ticket? or will this be done automatically for me?

did they send you a travel request yet? if not, you should get one. on there, they'll ask where you're travelling from and all that.

if you don't hear anything, i'd go to the AFIT website and contact the appropriate person for COT questions. i don't want to write his name on a public forum, but it should be pretty obvious on there.

i'm driving, so i'm not sure how the plane ticket works after that.

I was wondering if someone can help me out with this. I just got my orders to attend COT, and I was wondering how do I go about making travel arrangements. I don't want to pay out of pocket and then get re-imbursed. Who do I contact to get a plane ticket? or will this be done automatically for me?

There's a travel agent... its listed in the email with your first travel order... you'll have to call them, get their email, and then forward a copy of your orders... then call back so they can set it all up for you. I squared mine away this week and it was pretty painless (you don't have to pay anything).

I won't be getting in till a bit later than the report time but I heard that its not a big deal if you just let them know in advance.... plus you might get out of a lil' marchin' - which probably isn't a bad thing.

Good Luck!

So I was bored today and didn't want to study ID cases. Here's the 2008 OBLC Schedule for Google Calendar. If the link is dead, search HPSP in public calendars. It should be found there as well.

http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=j4toohjltm9lg3h9dd199qn07g%40group.calen dar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago

I realize this is an older post, but as it contains a plethora of valuable information I'd like to add a note.

Several posts refer to obtaining your military ID prior to attending COT.

THIS IS NO LONGER POSSIBLE.

There is a section toward the end of the orders that states the following:

ISSUANCE OF AN ACTIVE DUTY IDENTIFICATION CARD: You (and your dependents, if applicable) are not authorized issuance of an active duty ID card(s) until the first day of travel according to the orders. For convenience, it is best to wait until you get to your first duty station to apply for the active duty identification card(s).

In my case, because I'm traveling a great distance, my travel day is on July 27, and COT reporting is 3 days later; while you *might* have time to get your uniforms ahead of time with a copy of your orders, it is very likely you will *not* have time to have the tailoring done. This also means you will probably not have any real amount of time to break in new boots.

Read your orders carefully, and don't drive a long way for nothing.

I realize this is an older post, but as it contains a plethora of valuable information I'd like to add a note.

Several posts refer to obtaining your military ID prior to attending COT.

THIS IS NO LONGER POSSIBLE.

There is a section toward the end of the orders that states the following:



In my case, because I'm traveling a great distance, my travel day is on July 27, and COT reporting is 3 days later; while you *might* have time to get your uniforms ahead of time with a copy of your orders, it is very likely you will *not* have time to have the tailoring done. This also means you will probably not have any real amount of time to break in new boots.

Read your orders carefully, and don't drive a long way for nothing.

Thanks for the valuable information and I agree about reading orders carefully. However, I am curious whether the policy that you quoted applies to new HPSP students, still in medical school? We do not get active duty cards like USUHS students, right? If I remember correctly, I think we get green reservist cards. Is it also true that we can't get these types of cards at our nearest base, like you can't get active duty cards at bases, per quoted policy?

It says "active duty" cards. I don't know why you can't get a green (reserve) card. Call the ID station nearest to you and make sure.

I realize this is an older post, but as it contains a plethora of valuable information I'd like to add a note.

Several posts refer to obtaining your military ID prior to attending COT.

[B]THIS IS NO LONGER POSSIBLE.


If you bring your Oath of Office (Form DA 71 for the Army, anyway) to an ID issue center, there should be no problem in getting a green reservist card. At that point, it's smooth sailing to the PX, Commissary, and amusement park discounts....

If you bring your Oath of Office (Form DA 71 for the Army, anyway) to an ID issue center, there should be no problem in getting a green reservist card. At that point, it's smooth sailing to the PX, Commissary, and amusement park discounts....

haha, or you could join the national guard and get a real CAC card! hehe... I kid! ;-)

I'a am a new nurse scheduled to attend COT on 25 Aug 08. Is there anyone else out there acheduled to attend COT at that time?:cool:

Any points of advice? Do I really need to get a portable printer/scanner???

hi guys,

i know i posted a message once before about computers, but i found out some new information. the COT site says they provide you with laptops, so is it really necessary to bring our personal laptop? i wouldnt mind bringing it, but if i can save myself the extra luggage, i'd love to!

by the way, is anyone attending COT this july? i cant wait to go!:cool:

The problem with COT computers is that they are severely restricted. Also, my password did not work for the whole month that I was there. I had to use my roommate's log-in information to get my assignments done. What's worse, some of the rooms didn't have computers at all! Students had to travel to the library to type up their work.

Your personal equipment will always be better.

hi guys,

i know i posted a message once before about computers, but i found out some new information. the COT site says they provide you with laptops, so is it really necessary to bring our personal laptop? i wouldnt mind bringing it, but if i can save myself the extra luggage, i'd love to!

by the way, is anyone attending COT this july? i cant wait to go!:cool:

i'll be there.

The problem with COT computers is that they are severely restricted. Also, my password did not work for the whole month that I was there. I had to use my roommate's log-in information to get my assignments done. What's worse, some of the rooms didn't have computers at all! Students had to travel to the library to type up their work.

Your personal equipment will always be better.


Thanks! I will probably bring my own then. Also, does anyone know if we are authorized to use Corframs (permanently shiny shoes) at COT? I know the BOT students weren't alloweed a few years ago.

Jolie- can't wait to meet you! have you been preparing for COT? work outs/ uniforms/ reading OI's?

So I'm packing for ODS, and I'm wondering if I should leave empty space for my uniforms, which I haven't purchased yet. Am I going to get a bag to take everything home, or will I be jumping on my suitcase in five weeks?

So I'm packing for ODS, and I'm wondering if I should leave empty space for my uniforms, which I haven't purchased yet. Am I going to get a bag to take everything home, or will I be jumping on my suitcase in five weeks?
You will be able to buy a nice "sea bag", "duffle bag", or whatever the AF calls it, to put uniforms. They are not much to look at, and when they are filled up they are bulky and cumbersome, but you will always be able to spot it in the baggage return.

Are Corframs the patent leather shoes? In that case, yes. So long as the shoes are all black and shiny, they don't care what you wear. I will say that the shoes I purchased at COT were very comfortable.

Thanks! I will probably bring my own then. Also, does anyone know if we are authorized to use Corframs (permanently shiny shoes) at COT? I know the BOT students weren't alloweed a few years ago.

Jolie- can't wait to meet you! have you been preparing for COT? work outs/ uniforms/ reading OI's?

i've been working out pretty hard, but have been too stressed with other preparations (i.e. moving for med school) to read OIs or worry about getting uniforms in advance.

If you bring your Oath of Office (Form DA 71 for the Army, anyway) to an ID issue center, there should be no problem in getting a green reservist card. At that point, it's smooth sailing to the PX, Commissary, and amusement park discounts....

I just finished the commission process and have a completed USAF Oath of Office Form (AF IMT 133). If I understand you correctly, my AF IMT 133 Form should suffice. However, I am under the impression (from somewhere) that I still have to wait for my appointment orders to arrive before I can get my card and uniforms at an AFB. Do I have the wrong impression?

I just finished the commission process and have a completed USAF Oath of Office Form (AF IMT 133). If I understand you correctly, my AF IMT 133 Form should suffice. However, I am under the impression (from somewhere) that I still have to wait for my appointment orders to arrive before I can get my card and uniforms at an AFB. Do I have the wrong impression?

Nevermind. I logged onto AFIT today and found the answer. You do need your ARPC Form 92 in order to get the reserves ID card.

I went to COT in summer of 05. You dont need to bring a computer as their is a computer in every room and also you access to computers, printers, and internet at the library which is open until 9 or 10 at night. Do bring a flash drive though. Dont sweat the PT unless you suck. It isnt that hard and you can work out at your own pace, speed, during the PT sessions. I believe the PT lady just yells "get some for your lifestyle" the whole time meaning do the best you can. Be sure to enjoy your access to the officers club as I believe a pitcher of beer was reasonably priced there. Also , I think wednesday night their is a special at the bowling ally on base so you can bowl, eat, and drink for cheap. Have fun, do what your told and you will get through it.

Let us say some one didn't pass one of the PT section, push up, seat up, swimming or the running part and still didn't make it after extra training and remediation? Staying there until you pass or you would be kiked out?

Yea, i think the shoes are considered patent leather, so that works out :)

One thing I am worried about is PT. I am in good shape and can do the PT without a problem, but I've been having knee problems recently and running hurts a lot. I know they have a bike test, would I need a doctors note to take that? Or maybe I should just suck it up?

So, when they say to bring "orders" to COT, does that mean travel orders or the appointment order or the signed oath?

i'm copying everything just in case, but i just want to make sure to do the right thing.

also, do we need college diplomas? i know there is a section where they ask for that, but i was thinking that was more for people that have already graduated med school.

Bring 20 copies of your travel orders---the thing that tells you that you're supposed to be at COT. Don't bring your diploma. I think that only the physicians need that.

thanks. should i worry about a shoe shine kit? or just wait and buy one there?

You can buy a kit there. Everything you need can be purchased there.

My orders say to report to COT no earlier than 800 and no later than 1000 on July 1st. On the website it shows that the class dates are from June 30 to August 1st and has a statement in there saying "if your orders do not have you arriving to COT at least one day prior to the start day then immediately have them amended." I am FAP and technically do not finish my residency until June 30th although I have taken leave for the last week in order to make it to COT. Should I do what my orders say or what is said online? Thanks.

My orders say to report to COT no earlier than 800 and no later than 1000 on July 1st. On the website it shows that the class dates are from June 30 to August 1st and has a statement in there saying "if your orders do not have you arriving to COT at least one day prior to the start day then immediately have them amended." I am FAP and technically do not finish my residency until June 30th although I have taken leave for the last week in order to make it to COT. Should I do what my orders say or what is said online? Thanks.

don't we all have to get quarters on 6/30?

i'm hpsp, and my orders say to officially report on "7/1/08", but under travel day on the back it says to report between 12 and 4 pm on 6/30.

Thanks! I will probably bring my own then. Also, does anyone know if we are authorized to use Corframs (permanently shiny shoes) at COT? I know the BOT students weren't alloweed a few years ago.

Jolie- can't wait to meet you! have you been preparing for COT? work outs/ uniforms/ reading OI's?


Coraframs are the only low-quarters you can wear at COT.

You can buy a kit there. Everything you need can be purchased there.

I bought my uniform before I went down, but it didn't save me any time at all. Regardless of what you bought before you went, you will still be going to the military clothing store with the rest of your chalk. After buying the uniform, you will go straight to the alterations to drop everything off to get tailored. You won't be wearing your blues until week 3. Also, don't bother buying a shoe shining kit. The green boots don't really need to be cleaned and you clean the low-quarters using windex. If you do purchase your uniform before going, it makes things easier to get your name tape and the USAF tape as well as your rank insignia (make sure to buy the tape for the ABUs, NOT the BDUs) and get it all sewn on. The tailors at COT take an extremely long time to do anything. Also, get the rank insignia sewn onto your hat before going, the pins on the pin-on rank will tear up your forehead.

I think I just found the answer to my question, one of the 2nd year students here at school said this:

"On average we ran 2-3 days a week at COT[last summer], not that much. There were two days during our whole time there where we had to run a set distance, which was 3 miles, the rest of the time we ran for a set amount of time, usually around 20 minutes."

All of the running is pretty much at your own pace. It's almost always a self-paced run for 20-25 minutes. One of the days we did intervals where you jog a quarter lap then spring a quarter lap. We continued this for 1.5 miles. One day you will do a 5K run which doesn't count toward anything individually, but the 5K times will factor in toward honor flight. After the run, you will do 50 pushups and 50 situps, but they are staggered so you do 10 pushups then 10 situps, 5 times each. One day of PT will be a "core-training" day where you do a pretty intense workout of maxing out pushups in 1 min., wide-stance pushups, diamond pushups, situps, alternating situps (working obliques), planks, and the Tom Cruise exercise from Mission Impossible where you lay on your stomach and hold up your hands and legs and move in a swimming motion.

Overall the PT isn't too bad, the worst is getting acclimated to the heat/humidity.

If you fail your PFB at the beginning, you can't participate in the assault course and will be told to work on specific areas where you had problems. The PFA (physical fitness assessment) is the second to last Monday and if you fail it, nothing really happens as far as I could tell. One individual failed both PFB and PFA and they failed the last written test and they still graduated.

"If you fail your PFB at the beginning, you can't participate in the assault course and will be told to work on specific areas where you had problems."

Actually if you fail your PFB in the beginning, you will be given a chance to do a retake PFB in one week. I know one week seems short, but there were people who went up 5 points in their PT test a week later.

I am currently attending ODS (week 3 out of 5!) and I think the best things to prepare in advance are:

1. Learn the rank, insignia and collar devices of the Navy and Marines (if you're really bored learn Army and AF but they don't care about them here). Be sure you can accurately describe it, so like a W1 collar device is a "gold bar with two blue breaks" not "a gold bar with two blue boxes". A few people had these OCS books that their recruiter gave them with all of that info; if you can get 'em I'd do it.
2. Get in shape; be able to perform at the "satisfactory medium" level and you will be fine. No girl pushups allowed.
3. Learn how to do your hair within regs if you're a girl. If you have frizzy hair, buy some gel that will hold it down (no fly-aways). If you're a guy, they'll make you cut it if they don't like it.
4. If you can, practice making the hospital corners on the bed because I was freaking out about it for room inspections.
5. Don't volunteer for leadership positions unless they are really simple because otherwise you've got a lot of extra responsibility that can be a pain in the ass. On the one hand, it's good leadership experience but on the other hand, it sucks.

Otherwise don't worry about pre-learning the other "memorization" stuff they do because it's really easy to catch on. The rank/insignia stuff was the most stressful because it just took a while to learn the enlisted stuff (at least for me) so a headstart seems like a good idea.

They have a gear closet here with a lot of cleaning/laundry stuff so I'd hold off on anything until you got here because if they don't have it (or there's not a lot of it) you can buy it at the NEX. Some people (myself included) bought their own iron here at the NEX for like $7 and I think it's been useful. And buy some nail clippers or little scissors for the little IP's (the little strings that come out on the uniform).

And buy some nail clippers or little scissors for the little IP's (the little strings that come out on the uniform).

Just a little tip from a friendly neighborhood NCO...those pesky strings are easily and efficiently burnt off with a lighter. Not that a nail clipper won't do the trick, but those strings have a tendancy of showing up again after you wash your uniform, and sometimes it helps to carry a lighter because if you're in a hurry in the morning, sometimes you don't catch them all before leaving, and who likes to walk around with little strings hanging off your uniform all day?

zephyrhills123, I am going to be attending ODS July 26 to Aug 28. What is the atmosphere like? Is it like basic training (boot camp) which I attended 16 years ago with the Army or is it a little more relaxed atmosphere? Also, what is the daily schedule like, I still have things to get done for my overseas duty station and my hospital credentialing, will I have some time during business hours to get this taken care of?
Thanks

zephyrhills123, I am going to be attending ODS July 26 to Aug 28. What is the atmosphere like? Is it like basic training (boot camp) which I attended 16 years ago with the Army or is it a little more relaxed atmosphere? Also, what is the daily schedule like, I still have things to get done for my overseas duty station and my hospital credentialing, will I have some time during business hours to get this taken care of?
Thanks

The prior enlisted here think it is more relaxed than basic training (although none are from the Army); it's probably because they know what to do already and the lectures are essentially an introduction to the Navy system. It's hard to give a general schedule because it is always getting more relaxed each week. Classes are from 1300-1730, starting that Friday of the first week. If you have to do something during the day, you'll probably be allowed to skip that period of time but I wouldn't bank on being able to do so until at least the second week (also, no on-base liberty until the second weekend).

The first week was the most intense; on that Tuesday the chiefs run around waking you up by yelling and kicking on doors. They are constantly with you and yelling at you (this week is probably the closest to basic training), you won't have any free time at all and you'll probably be too exhausted anyway. If you get Chief Maioriello, you'll be proficient at flutter kicks and pushups because they are his favorite punishment, lol. The second week is slightly better (filled with classes) but I wouldn't bank on being able to do the things you need to do. By the third week, Chief was barely there (maybe saw him for a total of an hour every day) and people were allowed to do the things they needed to get done (it probably has a lot to do with your LCPO, but I think they are flexible with stuff like that).

Otherwise PT is at 0500 and breakfast is around 0600 and dinner around 1730. In the third week we were granted on-base weeknight liberty but before that you weren't allowed to leave King Hall even if you had nothing to do. No off-base liberty until the third weekend, and we were told we would have overnight privileges this upcoming (fourth) weekend and be allowed to wear civilian clothes. As per usual, if we piss him off he can revoke it though.

Thanks zephyrhills123, I am planning to arrange my own travel to the local airport. I am traveling from Tampa, I called the training command in Newport and they weren't sure. Did you arrange your own travel to Newport?

Thanks zephyrhills123, I am planning to arrange my own travel to the local airport. I am traveling from Tampa, I called the training command in Newport and they weren't sure. Did you arrange your own travel to Newport?

I didn't; when I filled out the orders, they arranged the flights and sent the itinerary to me. You can also view it on NROWS... if you're going on the 26th, it should probably be on there if you haven't gotten it emailed to you already. Try calling a woman named Shirley (I believe that's her name) and she can help you out with it. I don't have her number but it's probably on those fast facts emails they send out.

The prior enlisted here think it is more relaxed than basic training (although none are from the Army); it's probably because they know what to do already and the lectures are essentially an introduction to the Navy system. It's hard to give a general schedule because it is always getting more relaxed each week. Classes are from 1300-1730, starting that Friday of the first week. If you have to do something during the day, you'll probably be allowed to skip that period of time but I wouldn't bank on being able to do so until at least the second week (also, no on-base liberty until the second weekend).

The first week was the most intense; on that Tuesday the chiefs run around waking you up by yelling and kicking on doors. They are constantly with you and yelling at you (this week is probably the closest to basic training), you won't have any free time at all and you'll probably be too exhausted anyway. If you get Chief Maioriello, you'll be proficient at flutter kicks and pushups because they are his favorite punishment, lol. The second week is slightly better (filled with classes) but I wouldn't bank on being able to do the things you need to do. By the third week, Chief was barely there (maybe saw him for a total of an hour every day) and people were allowed to do the things they needed to get done (it probably has a lot to do with your LCPO, but I think they are flexible with stuff like that).

Otherwise PT is at 0500 and breakfast is around 0600 and dinner around 1730. In the third week we were granted on-base weeknight liberty but before that you weren't allowed to leave King Hall even if you had nothing to do. No off-base liberty until the third weekend, and we were told we would have overnight privileges this upcoming (fourth) weekend and be allowed to wear civilian clothes. As per usual, if we piss him off he can revoke it though.
Man, Army was a summer camp compared to some of these stories of Navy and Air Force. Things were a little more strict in the field but on base we stayed in a hotel (BOQ). Wouldn't know the difference until you walk outside. After class each night was free to do with as we wish. Usually didn't go out on the town until the weekend tho since class and the occasional PT was fairly early.

Man, Army was a summer camp compared to some of these stories of Navy and Air Force. Things were a little more strict in the field but on base we stayed in a hotel (BOQ). Wouldn't know the difference until you walk outside. After class each night was free to do with as we wish. Usually didn't go out on the town until the weekend tho since class and the occasional PT was fairly early.

Man, that's crazy... I'm jealous! :caution:

I'm currently at COT if anyone wants more recent info.

it's definitely a lot stricter than some on here have described. however, part of it could be the fact that our class is over 300 people.

living accomodations are nice and it's not that hard. it's just exhausting because you're going from 0430 to 2200 every day. it's more of an exercise to see how far they can push you until you break (mentally). if you look at it as such, you'll be fine. just follow the rules and don't complain. and above all, keep a straight face when they're yelling at you. :laugh:

Hi Jolie,

Did you get your uniforms and have everything sewed on before you left for COT. I was up visitng my permanent duty station and purchased most things. Would like to hear whatever advice you have. I'll be attending COT 8/25.

no, i did not purchase my uniforms in advance. I didn't have any problems getting my sizes or anything and they budget a good deal of time for AAFES. the first day EVERYONE went to AAFES regardless of if they had uniforms or not.

COT is really not that bad. the first 2 days are the worst. get through that and you'll be ok. it's mostly a mindgame to see how much stress you can take.

don't stay up too late getting stuff done. i didn't. i value my sleep and would go to bed at around 10 every night. i still managed to score mid 90s on everything.

no, i did not purchase my uniforms in advance. I didn't have any problems getting my sizes or anything and they budget a good deal of time for AAFES. the first day EVERYONE went to AAFES regardless of if they had uniforms or not.

COT is really not that bad. the first 2 days are the worst. get through that and you'll be ok. it's mostly a mindgame to see how much stress you can take.

don't stay up too late getting stuff done. i didn't. i value my sleep and would go to bed at around 10 every night. i still managed to score mid 90s on everything.


My biggest concern is the food, I just dont understand how they can feed you junk food for a month....it is one thing to feed bad food, but a completely different issue to feed you things that are fundamentally unhealthy and not give you any other option

Junk food? The food at COT was good Southern cooking.

If COT runs at all similar to ODS, I can say that the quality of the food will not be a concern. By the second week, I was starving well before every meal, and the focus was on stuffing my face as quickly as I could with whatever relatively low-fat options I had. Even then, I was running a calorie deficit and ended up losing as much weight as I had hoped to lose, while eating more than I normally would.

Junk food? The food at COT was good Southern cooking.

I heard they were given things like lucky charms and fruit loops for cereal, nutrigrain bars, ect. The only fruit they got was in syrup, ect. ect. and that there were very few options for quality protein or veggies. I'm not picky, give me some protein and some steam veggies and I'm fine, but I will simply get ill if fed junk

There's a big selection for every meal.

I heard they were given things like lucky charms and fruit loops for cereal, nutrigrain bars, ect. The only fruit they got was in syrup, ect. ect. and that there were very few options for quality protein or veggies. I'm not picky, give me some protein and some steam veggies and I'm fine, but I will simply get ill if fed junk

there's plenty to choose from...I think after the first week the only mandatory meal is lunch so you can do as you please

there's plenty to choose from...I think after the first week the only mandatory meal is lunch so you can do as you please

umm.. . no. until week 4, you have to eat every meal in the DFAC (dining facility). even when you get 1st class privileges at the end, you still have to eat breakfast and lunch there Monday through Saturday.

LauraDO is right on with the food. It sucks. The only reprieve is that there is a salad bar and they do sell some apples, oranges, bananas, and yogurt. I never ate at the salad bar because it took too long to load up my plate and would cause me to have to sit with people in other flights. Pretty much anything you get in the hot line is unhealthy.

You are not required to eat breakfast in the cafeteria. I routinely skipped out because of lack of time and ate something in my room.

You are not required to eat breakfast in the cafeteria. I routinely skipped out because of lack of time and ate something in my room.

that didn't fly in my class. EVERYONE went.

umm.. . no. until week 4, you have to eat every meal in the DFAC (dining facility). even when you get 1st class privileges at the end, you still have to eat breakfast and lunch there Monday through Saturday.

LauraDO is right on with the food. It sucks. The only reprieve is that there is a salad bar and they do sell some apples, oranges, bananas, and yogurt. I never ate at the salad bar because it took too long to load up my plate and would cause me to have to sit with people in other flights. Pretty much anything you get in the hot line is unhealthy.

Ok nice tone......anyway things may have changed since I went through sorry for the misinformation....our class did not follow the progression of class status as laid out in the manual. After week one things were a lot more relaxed but that was summer of 2006.

well #$%@# looks like I am starving.....Honestly this has got me really stressed out. I'm not trying to be difficult or anything but if I try to eat that junk I WILL get sick. I'm an athlete and have had a healthy diet my whole life, I also don't have any excess weight to lose (in fact I constantly work to gain) so just not eat anything but bananas and apples from the salad bar just wont cut it

Any suggestions of what I might do? Doctors notes of some kind? beg and plead? Anything?

Honestly this has got me really stressed out. I'm not trying to be difficult or anything but if I try to eat that junk I WILL get sick. I'm an athlete and have had a healthy diet my whole life, I also don't have any excess weight to lose (in fact I constantly work to gain) so just not eat anything but bananas and apples from the salad bar just wont cut it
Out of curiosity, how are you planning on dealing with deployment or assignments where you don't have any choice but MREs or whatever they happen to serve? I respect your healthy lifestyle, but I would think that in the service you won't always find yourself with the diet you're accustomed to.

well #$%@# looks like I am starving.....Honestly this has got me really stressed out. I'm not trying to be difficult or anything but if I try to eat that junk I WILL get sick. I'm an athlete and have had a healthy diet my whole life, I also don't have any excess weight to lose (in fact I constantly work to gain) so just not eat anything but bananas and apples from the salad bar just wont cut it

In a training environment, you're going to expend far more calories than you normally would, even as an athelete. You'll be uncomfortable and mildly dehydrated. You will be provided with the MREs, and you'll eat a small amount of it, which will give you a fair amount of calories in a small quantity of food. This isn't junk food.

You'll be fine. It may not taste great, but it will stay down.

Of course, like the rest of us, you'll probably be constipated for a few days.

Out of curiosity, how are you planning on dealing with deployment or assignments where you don't have any choice but MREs or whatever they happen to serve? I respect your healthy lifestyle, but I would think that in the service you won't always find yourself with the diet you're accustomed to.


No, I do understand this, but frankly I would rather eat MREs than fruit loops, at least I could pick out some quality protein from the MRE's I can't say I would get anything of any value from fruitloops :(

In a training environment, you're going to expend far more calories than you normally would, even as an athelete. You'll be uncomfortable and mildly dehydrated. You will be provided with the MREs, and you'll eat a small amount of it, which will give you a fair amount of calories in a small quantity of food. This isn't junk food.

You'll be fine. It may not taste great, but it will stay down.

Of course, like the rest of us, you'll probably be constipated for a few days.


I know that is why I am so concerned, I lose weight very easily as it is and I don't want to take any chances, the MRE's might work, I guess I hadn't thought about that option, I also wonder if maybe I could bring a small refridgerator for my room to keep some items like hard boiled eggs, chicken breasts ect. so I can get more protein in. The protein is really what I am worried about, as long as I have protein I can live, but by the sounds of it they really didn't get much

I know that is why I am so concerned, I lose weight very easily as it is and I don't want to take any chances, the MRE's might work, I guess I hadn't thought about that option, I also wonder if maybe I could bring a small refridgerator for my room to keep some items like hard boiled eggs, chicken breasts ect. so I can get more protein in. The protein is really what I am worried about, as long as I have protein I can live, but by the sounds of it they really didn't get much

When I was at OIS, the DFAC had hard boiled eggs. In fact, every DFAC I have been in has had a pretty wide range of food available. I don't think it's likely that you won't be able to find food you can eat. Even the vegtarians did fine.

So at COT unless the rules have changed you are allowed to keep food in your dorm room provided it is kept in a closed container (they don't want bug problems). I don't think there was a mini fridge in there so it has to be non-perishables. There are no room inspections so nobody will give you crap about it. They don't serve health food there but your flight commander should help you out if you ask. I highly doubt you are alone in this. Be prepared to adapt, as it is expected of you and above all be professional about it and you'll be much more likely to get some help. You only have to stick it out until you meals aren't required should be less than 4 weeks....heck your only there what 5 right? I can double check with a friend who just finished and find out for you when meals are no longer required events....will post here as soon as she responds.

So at COT unless the rules have changed you are allowed to keep food in your dorm room provided it is kept in a closed container (they don't want bug problems). I don't think there was a mini fridge in there so it has to be non-perishables. There are no room inspections so nobody will give you crap about it. They don't serve health food there but your flight commander should help you out if you ask. I highly doubt you are alone in this. Be prepared to adapt, as it is expected of you and above all be professional about it and you'll be much more likely to get some help. You only have to stick it out until you meals aren't required should be less than 4 weeks....heck your only there what 5 right? I can double check with a friend who just finished and find out for you when meals are no longer required events....will post here as soon as she responds.


Thank you I appreciate anything you find out

Thank you I appreciate anything you find out

OK here's the deal...

"...but looking back, it was pretty fast! In regards to privileges- Week 3 for off campus? Then Week 4 for off base? I can't really remember very well, because we earned them as a class, then a few people took advantage of it and messed up a bit, so it was taken away, then given back- a little bit of a blur."

So that makes two weeks for meals required. Once you have off campus privileges you can go to the commissary, and anywhere on base as soon as you get done with class. I think our class was along the same lines.....recalling flight dinners and weekends at Buffalo wild wings. You will have fun though getting to know the people in your flight...

OK here's the deal...

"...but looking back, it was pretty fast! In regards to privileges- Week 3 for off campus? Then Week 4 for off base? I can't really remember very well, because we earned them as a class, then a few people took advantage of it and messed up a bit, so it was taken away, then given back- a little bit of a blur."

So that makes two weeks for meals required. Once you have off campus privileges you can go to the commissary, and anywhere on base as soon as you get done with class. I think our class was along the same lines.....recalling flight dinners and weekends at Buffalo wild wings. You will have fun though getting to know the people in your flight...


Thanks for this, I can't tell you how much I appreciate it!

Thanks for this, I can't tell you how much I appreciate it!

NP.....happy to help don't forget to have fun :-) :thumbup:

Ok nice tone......anyway things may have changed since I went through sorry for the misinformation....our class did not follow the progression of class status as laid out in the manual. After week one things were a lot more relaxed but that was summer of 2006.

sorry for the shortness. i was sleep deprived. feeling much better now.

as for my class, we were required to eat at the DFAC for breakfast and lunch regardless of privileges Mon-Sat. Only as first class (the last few days) were we allowed to eat dinner elsewhere. my class was very limited and they were very strict as we were such a large group (300). we were not allowed to go back to the dorms at any point during the day without asking our flight commander.

maybe it's different in smaller classes, but they certainly cracked the whip for us.

for LauraDO, there is a wide variety of food. a lot of it is crap, but you should be able to find something that will work for you. however, this might mean eating the same thing for breakfast, lunch, etc. every single day.

Does anyone know what the summer ODS dates are for 2009?

When I asked, back in the spring of this year, I was told that 2009 dates probably wouldn't be available until late 2008 or early 2009.

Any word on 2009 OIS dates??

Jun 20 - July 24 (Navy)

Any word on 2009 OIS dates??

Email sent out the the Navy HPSPers:

Dear HPSP Participant Class of 2011 & 2012,

All officers must attend Officer Development School (ODS) prior to reporting on active duty. ODS is a five week course held in Newport Rhode Island. It is a mandatory AT for participants in the HPSP/FAP programs. Please schedule your ODS training if you have not already attended. The dates for ODS in 2009 are:
file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/Kristi/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-6.jpgfile:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/Kristi/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-7.jpghttp://www.uthscsa2011.com/Guest/ODS.jpg
Seats are limited, so the earlier you apply for a seat, the better your chances of getting the desired date. Some students have already reserved their seats.

Once you decide on a date that works for your schedule, please contact me, at oh@med.navy.mil and let them know which date you want. A seat will be reserved for you if available. If a seat is not available, you will be put on the waiting list.

Please ensure that you have a current Annual Verification Form and HIV on file with the Accessions Medical Section. You must have had an HIV test within 2 years of your ODS start date and your Annual Verification Form must be dated within 1 year of your ODS start date. For questions about your HIV and annual verification status, contact Accessions Medical Section (file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/jon.green/Local%20Settings/Local%20Settings/sandra.yerkes/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/OLK10/contact.doc) at oh@med.navy.mil. Please use the subject line of “Annual Verification Status.”

Once you have been notified that you have a seat in the desired ODS class, you must apply for orders (file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/jon.green/Local%20Settings/Local%20Settings/sandra.yerkes/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/OLK10/aa_atnrows%20ODS%20and%20school%20-%20yer%20rev.doc) through the Navy Reserve Order Writing System (NROWS). Instructions for NROWS are located under my signature block and on the Accessions Website. Once you have entered your request for orders, an Accessions Order Writer will process your orders and arrange your travel. Your orders will be available on line in NROWS about a week before your travel. Your orders will include electronic airline tickets.

If you have additional questions, please contact me.




Jon F. Green
NROWS Coordinator
Navy Medicine Manpower, Personnel, Training, & Education Command (NAVMED MPT&E)
8901 Wisconsin Avenue
Bethesda, MD 20889-5611
Comm: (301) 319-4538, DSN 285-4538
Fax: (301) 295-1811
E-Mail: jon.green@med.navy.mil (jon.green@med.navy.mil)

I'm a fan of how I never got the above email, and I'm part of the c/o 2011. I was told in Oct when I inquired as to ODS dates that they wouldn't be finalized until the early part of the year (as there was some conflicting information about that dates at the time of my inquiry). Now, according to the FastFacts, the only class I could attend this summer is full with a significant wait list. I'm not sure when I'm supposed to complete ODS now (as this is my summer between 2nd and 3rd). Oh well.

I'm a fan of how I never got the above email, and I'm part of the c/o 2011. I was told in Oct when I inquired as to ODS dates that they wouldn't be finalized until the early part of the year (as there was some conflicting information about that dates at the time of my inquiry). Now, according to the FastFacts, the only class I could attend this summer is full with a significant wait list. I'm not sure when I'm supposed to complete ODS now (as this is my summer between 2nd and 3rd). Oh well.
the right hand never talks to the left hand in all military branches it seems...at least I can vouch for the army on that one! Sounds like the navy is the same way too

I read through this particular topic, don't know if I missed..and excuse me if I did, but if I just signed onto HPSP, do I do the COT before med school starts, or can I choose between which summers to do it?

Is the 45 days reporting to AD every summer from here on after(which is what I read on the HPSP testimony), or do I only have to attend one of these my entire four years(which is what my recruiter mentioned)?

Blahhh...why so much confusion:confused:

Ok after research, I found the answer to my question. Just wanted to verify if I had the correct information. So there are 4 AD tours, which one of them is the COT training right?

COT training is usually done the summer before med school.

The second AD is done during the first summer after first year of med school.

The third and Fourth AD tours are done as clinical rotations during the third and fourth year at Naval Base Clinic for Navy HPSP students? And these CAN serve as audition rotations? Assuming your speciality meets the requirements needed by the Navy and assuming no GMO tour right(which I heard is very unlikely especially in the Navy)?

Thank you for the clarifications.

COT is for Air Force only. Navy uses OIS. Call your recruiter to sign you up for the right class. Your ADT's in 3rd/4th year are done in military hospitals in the specialty of your choice---given that there are enough spots. And yes, these tours are audition rotations.

I poked through this thread and saw mostly Navy/AF stories. Can anyone share their experiences about OBC?

I poked through this thread and saw mostly Navy/AF stories. Can anyone share their experiences about OBC?

Summer camp with weapons and boring lectures.

Summer camp with weapons and boring lectures.

Ditto

I'm currently at COT if anyone wants more recent info.

it's definitely a lot stricter than some on here have described. however, part of it could be the fact that our class is over 300 people.

living accomodations are nice and it's not that hard. it's just exhausting because you're going from 0430 to 2200 every day. it's more of an exercise to see how far they can push you until you break (mentally). if you look at it as such, you'll be fine. just follow the rules and don't complain. and above all, keep a straight face when they're yelling at you. :laugh:


How about a summary of your time there (start to finish) to let all us going what we "might" expect.... course everyone has a different experience....

If we go running on our own time on base, do we have to wear the PT uniform, or do we wear our own workout clothes? How does that work with regular clothes also? Also, should we report in khakis or nice pants or is jeans ok? I'm hoping to join the May COT class, so I have awhile, but I'm trying to wrap my head around how all this works.

The rules will most likely be laid out for you once you show up. But generally speaking, as long as you're not on leave (either on-base or off-base), you are expected to be in uniform. This will probably apply to any PT you do on your own if you're not on leave.

Most of your classmates won't have any uniforms when they show up, and there's no need to show up in uniform.