Originally posted by D_mac05
How is it possible that one can study for API BEFORE OCS and remember the information once OCS starts? I understand right now that there is a huge wait between OCS and API, and that IFS is required if a PPL is not earned before OCS. I do plan on studying for API early, but I believe that I will retain information better AFTER OCS. Is this what you meant about study now? Or was you meaning to study before OCS for API?
D_Mac, that's a very accurate assumption. There is so much other stuff to "worry" about, and one big thing to remember is to take things step by step. Trying to get so far ahead and fight the problem from beginning to end is going to overwhelm you. That said, there's always the guys w/ the 40 lb head that's able to have all the EPs, course rules, and Systems knowledge memorized the first day of API, and they rock the first 4 weeks of API. But I'll tell you, a lot of times, those guys don't always have the stick skills, and that's where it really counts. I can think of two people off the top of my head who were like that.
Just another comment on this "got to be number #1" mindset that's floating around right now. In a word, relax. There is always going to be someone who's better. That's just a fact of life. That said, it doesn't mean that you can't be the best you can be and kick ass. Also, I would see guys in the VTs who would sweat every flight, worry about every little grade (it was MPTS, so it was "5's" that everyone wanted, although a similar thing happened for aboves in advanced), and worry on a daily basis as to whether they had "Jet Grades." Usually, those people were not enjoying themselves and basically were not having "fun" in the aircraft. Primary is not designed to be fun, but it can be. Sure hard work is necessary, but "enjoy" what you're doing at that moment, and it'll make it a lot easier to get through it (and probably make you better at it) than worrying what grade you're getting for it.
Yeah, yeah, I know it's not all fun. I wanted to blow my brains out during the end of RIs, not because it was overly hard, but because it was insanely boring. However, I did lot's of out and in's got to experience new things (like pork sandwiches and the "Burrito 1" departure)
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