The packing list tells you to bring s lot of clothes.. Seriously, you only need about 5 shirts because you’re going to end up buying more here. I have a pair of jeans, a pair of capris and a pair of long shorts. I didn’t bring long pants to run in, though, and now I can’t run. Don’t use this as an excuse to not work out: pack long pants to run in, and get your butt out the door in the morning.
The list also says to bring a mess kit. Apparently every Racer knows not to do this, but no one let me know. Word on the street is you don’t need it, and most get ditched after month 1. Including my unused one.
Don’t tell your parents / family / friends that you’ll let them know as soon as you land safely. Remember what they said at camp, that no news is good news? Tell them that—when you land, you probably won’t get internet for a while (it took me about a week). No big deal, but if your parents are the type to have panic attacks if they don’t hear from you, do them a favor and prepare them for no communication. It’ll save you a lot of headache.
Be prepared to give sermons. I have loads of notes that I’ve spent years collecting, and they’re all at home. Awesome. Also, I really recommend downloading your favorite sermons onto an ipod to listen to on long planes / trains / buses. It’ll pump you up and pass the time without making you carsick.
Don’t blame teammates for things that are outside of your control. Most of the time, no one has any idea what’s going on. It’s not anyone’s fault, but getting upset at your team is only going to make the first few days of transitions harder.
Speaking of first few days, when you arrive somewhere, take pictures of nearby landmarks. I can’t tell you why, just do it. Also, bringing a ninja costume might not be a bad idea…
This one is just my personal opinion, but if you have the option between a mac or a netbook, take the mac. Remember, Jesus would have been an apple guy. 😉
