I was in the scouts for a number of years which gave me an outlook on camping and survival in the outdoors. I finished up in the scouts as a leader after achieving Scout of the Year. I personally had always intended on becoming a soldier from an early age.

I come from a military backround. My Father was a Sgt for 21 years in the Defence Forces, as was my uncle. I was always influenced by both of them, whether I was aware of it or not while growing up.

I rang the army and requested an application form which was sent out to me. I submitted the application and in time was called for an interview.

The interview board consisted of three soldiers, an officer and two sergeants. They asked me questions about myself, my background, and what knowledge I had of the Defence Forces. I was sent a letter to tell me that I had been successful in my interview. 

I then had to complete a medical and a fitness test. I got a letter about one month letter telling me I was successful and when I was to start my training.

A normal day in the army starts at 08:25. You would be on parade at that time where an NCO would inspect your uniform and make sure everybody is there and then do some foot drill with us. From 09:00 until 11:00 we are tasked with jobs that come from our superiors which can be anything from cleaning, weapons, training or lectures. We then have a tea break. Then physical training would be organised for us.

After lunch we have another parade followed by more tasks. On a normal day we would finish at 16:30, however you are expected to prepare everything for the next day e.g. clean and iron your uniform and prepare what equipment is needed for the next day.

I currently work in the company office which carries a lot of responsibilties. I am responsible for the tasks that are given to me by the company sergeant, such as rations, parade states, notices to let everybody know what is happening at any given time. I also carry out my regimental duties such as barrack guard and ATCP. What I do is important for the smooth running of the company, if the company runs smoothly then so does the battalion and the organisation.

Every day presents different challenges, some more challenging than others. For example Barrack Guard presents its own challenges, patrolling , monitoring and remaining alert for the duration of your duty. Everyday in my office job there are different challenges which also have to be met.

My friends think that it is exciting and cool that I fire weapons and carry out war games in the mountains etc.  I also find it exciting and really enjoyable. My friends also think it is cool that we get to travel over seas for long periods of time. I like the fact that I get to meet a lot of different people and make many friends.

Some exercises can be very long and demanding. Sometimes you can be wet, hungry and tired and you just feel sorry for yourself.  But when it is all over I look back on it and realise the laugh that I had.

My previous experience of computers has helped me in my current position in the company office, especially with the PMS system. I get on with people and I can take a slagging and I can also give it back. I get on well with all my comrades and we can have a laugh while also getting the job done.

I always knew I wanted to join the army as a recruit. Therfore my subjects in school did not influence my career. However I completed my Leaving Cert as it is important to have in case things did not go to plan. I also focused a lot on sports, I played Ladies gaelic for my local G.A.A and camogie. I had to keep a standard of fitness as that is one of the main requirements for the army.

I joined the Army with my Leaving Cert. Since I have been in the Army I have completed a First Aid course, computer appreciation course, signals course, crowd riot control and different weapon courses. The signals course is eight weeks long. I learned radio communications, codes, phonetic alphabet and radio discipline. This course is very important as everywhere the Army goes they have to keep communication open at all times with headquarters while keeping secure.

Irish gave me a head start in recruit training as it helped me with the words of command.

The most rewarding event so far was my completion of recruit and three star training. I felt I had achieved a great deal and it was the proudest day of my life. I will never forget that day. I'd like to be remembered as a good team player and as a good contributor by my fellow recruits and training ncos.

My sense of humour is a great asset in my career. I am by nature a very organised person. I like to do things right or not at all. I set myself goals and intend to meet them.

If I had not gotten into the Army, my dream job would be forensic science as I find it very interesting. I would have focussed on DNA analysis and ballistics.

Yes. My job is varied, interesting and can present different challanges every day. It offers me security and I am continually learning new administration skills in my current appointment. I still have plenty of leisure time to spend with my friends and my family. The Army offers me the chance for promotion and overseas service.

I would advise them to get themselves physically fit and to maintain it. I would also say that a sense of humour is very important and the ability to laugh at themselves. They should have self discipline and be prepared to accept imposed discipline. Punctuality is very important as is respect for others. If they had sporting interests that would be a help.

The three most important characteristics in my opinion would be;

• Punctuality
• Personal Discipline
• Self Respect and respect for others

My favourite music is dance.

My favourite film is Grease.

People being late.

Virgo

The Army encourages continual development and advancement in training. I intend on doing an NCO's course, advanced weapon training and more computer courses. There are plenty of courses that I intend on doing but most of all I plan for promotion.

Joining the FCA would be the best insight to what the Army would be like. Scouting or adventure groups would also be an asset.